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Are you looking for the best 1000 Islands helicopter tours? If you're eager to experience unparalleled aerial views of the majestic 1000 Islands, you're in the right place.
We have created a list of the best 1000 Islands helicopter tours near Gananoque, including our #1 favorite Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour.
These tours provide an exceptional opportunity to soar above scenic landscapes, revealing hidden gems and breathtaking views that can only be appreciated from the sky.
From intimate, romantic flights to educational and adventurous journeys, our curated selection caters to a variety of preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Our top picks
1. Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour
2. 1000 Islands: 10, 20, or 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
3. Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch
Best 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
1. Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Thousand Islands region from a unique perspective with the Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour. This tour offers an exhilarating 20-minute helicopter ride, providing unparalleled aerial views of the iconic Boldt Castle and the stunning landscape of the Thousand Islands.
Soar above the St. Lawrence River and marvel at the scenic Thousand Islands Bridge from above. This intimate experience is perfect for couples and small groups, with a maximum of three passengers per helicopter. Flights are available at various times throughout the day to suit your schedule.
What's Included
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Gratuities
Duration, Languages, and Price
- Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
- Languages Offered: English and 6 more
- Price: From CA$210.00
"What an awesome experience, my Pilot Erin, made my day. Imagine 10 years old(double digits), my first time in the air and I was front row beside my pilot to see what a beautiful part of the world I am fortunate to call home. Best birthday ever. Thank you to all the staff with 1000 Island Heli Tours for making this experience fabulous. Annalie" 5.0/5 (193 reviews)
2. 1000 Islands: 10, 20, or 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the 1000 Islands: 10, 20, or 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour. This tour offers a unique perspective of the picturesque 1000 Islands region. Whether you opt for the 10-minute, 20-minute, or the extensive 30-minute journey, each flight promises unparalleled views of key landmarks such as the Ivy Lea Bridge, Boldt Castle, and Singer Castle.
What's Included:
- Scenic helicopter tour
- Guaranteed window seat
- Tour commentary in six languages
- Headset for each passenger
- All applicable taxes and fees
- Souvenir videos (available for purchase)
Duration, Languages, and Price
- Duration: 10 - 30 minutes
- Languages Offered: English and 5 other languages
- Starting Price: From C$ 119.18 per person
"The flight was a real experience in beautiful sunny weather. It's great to see the many islands from this perspective. The pilot gave us many explanations that were easy to understand even for us non-native English speakers. I can only recommend the flight and on-site support." 5/5 (173 reviews)
3. Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch
Discover the splendor of the Thousand Islands from an exceptional vantage point with the Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch. This tour provides a unique blend of adventure and culinary delight, offering a 30-minute scenic helicopter ride over the enchanting Thousand Islands region.
You will witness iconic landmarks such as Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and Millionaires Row. Following the aerial journey, the tour takes you to BUSL Cider, the newest cider mill in the region, where you will indulge in cider tastings and a guided tour, concluding with a light lunch featuring the famous Thousand Islands Dressing.
What’s Included:
- Roundtrip helicopter ride (approximately 30 minutes each way)
- Cider mill guided tour
- Cider tasting
- Light lunch
- Local taxes and fees
Duration, Languages, and Price
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Languages Offered: English
- Price: From C$ 404.84 per person
"Awesome experience! Even in winter, the landscape is magical. The staff is super professional and pleasant. We immediately felt confident with Bill, our pilot who made the effort to speak French throughout the flight." 5/5 (9 reviews)
4. Thousand Islands Two Castle Helicopter Tour
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ontario's Thousand Islands from a unique perspective with the Thousand Islands Two Castle Helicopter Tour. This exhilarating journey offers a bird's-eye view of the iconic St. Lawrence River and the picturesque Thousand Islands Bridge.
Marvel at the aerial vistas of the historic Boldt and Singer Castles, and glide over the serene Manhattan Group of islands. This narrated tour provides fascinating insights into the region's history, making it a must-try activity for visitors and locals alike.
What's Included:
- Narrated helicopter tour
- Headsets for clear guide communication
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges
Duration, Languages, and Price:
- Duration: 30 minutes (approx.)
- Languages Offered: English and 6 more
- Price: From CA$292.06
"The pilot was amazing. From the time I booked to the time I boarded the helicopter, they guided so well. Very impressive service." - rajanalli, Aug 2017 5.0/5 (29 reviews)
5. Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch
Embark on a remarkable journey with the Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch. This unique experience combines stunning aerial views and delightful culinary delights. Your adventure begins in Gananoque, where you’ll soar above the breathtaking 1000 Islands, catching glimpses of Boldt and Singer Castles.
Mid-flight, land at the pioneering ARBRU Craft Brewery, Canada's first off-grid brewery, for a delightful lunch paired with a craft beer flight. Revel in the flavors of a wood-fired pizza while surrounded by the serene beauty of the hops fields.
What's included:
- 30-minute helicopter tour
- Expert pilot and communication equipment
- Visit to ARBRU Craft Brewery
- Gourmet pizza lunch
- Craft beer flight
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected)
Duration, Languages, and Price:
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Languages: English, French (audio guide)
- Price: From C$ 394.37 per person
"Loved it! So fun! The views & brews were great." - Ashley, Canada 5/5 (3 reviews)
6. Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Thousand Islands from an unparalleled perspective with the Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour. This tour offers an unforgettable aerial journey over this unique archipelago, providing stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, Gananoque, and a plethora of islands, each with its own charm.
The tour's highlight is the bird's eye view of the Admiralty Group of Islands, Wind Turbines, and more. With several departure times available daily, this tour caters to your schedule, promising a personalized experience in a modern, three-passenger helicopter, making it a top choice among the best 1000 Islands helicopter tours.
What's Included:
- Headsets for clear guide communication
- All taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Gratuities
- DVD of the flight (available for purchase)
Duration, Languages, and Price:
- Duration: 10 minutes (approx.)
- Languages Offered: English and 6 more
- Price: From CA$122.06
"It was really a great experience for that price. They were all so friendly and helpful. I was a little scared of heights, but they made it so much easier for me. I would like to do it again in the coming summer."
5/5 (37 reviews)
7. The Works - 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
Embark on an unforgettable journey with The Works - 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours, a premier helicopter tour experience. This exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the majestic 1000 Islands from a breathtaking aerial perspective.
Starting with a scenic flight over historic Kingston, Ontario, you'll witness the charm of downtown, the impressive Fort Henry, and the famed Kingston Penitentiary. The adventure continues as you discover hidden gems and sunken ships, revealing the untold stories of the St. Lawrence River.
The tour's highlight includes a close-up view of the iconic Boldt and Singer Castles, showcasing the region's rich history and architectural grandeur. This comprehensive tour promises an all-inclusive experience, complete with a personalized video and t-shirt souvenir.
What's Included:
- Scenic Flight over Kingston, Ontario
- Views of Fort Henry and Kingston Penitentiary
- Exploration of sunken ships and castles
- Visit to Boldt and Singer Castles
- Personalized video and t-shirt
Duration, Languages, and Price:
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
- Languages Offered: English
- Price: From $475 per person
"Thank you so much for the wonderful opportunity to fly in a helicopter over some of the most beautiful scenery in the world!!!"
1000 Islands Helicopter Tours Comparison Table
Here is a table summarizing the tours. This table provides a quick overview of each tour, including the duration, languages available, pricing, and customer reviews.
| Tour Name | Duration | Languages | Price | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour | Approximately 20 minutes | English and 6 more | From CA$210.00 | 5.0/5 (193 reviews) |
| 1000 Islands: 10, 20, or 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour | 10 - 30 minutes | English and 5 other languages | From C$ 119.18 per person | 5/5 (173 reviews) |
| Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch | 2.5 hours | English | From C$ 404.84 per person | 5/5 (9 reviews) |
| Thousand Islands Two Castle Helicopter Tour | 30 minutes (approx.) | English and 6 more | From CA$292.06 | 5.0/5 (29 reviews) |
| Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch | 1.5 hours | English, French (audio guide) | From C$ 394.37 per person | 5/5 (3 reviews) |
| Thousand Islands Helicopter Tour | 10 minutes (approx.) | English and 6 more | From CA$122.06 | 5/5 (37 reviews) |
| The Works - 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours | Approximately 60 minutes | English | From $475 per person | - |
What is a 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour?
A 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour is a thrilling aerial adventure that offers an unparalleled view of the famous 1000 Islands region. These tours allow passengers to experience the beauty of this unique area from a bird's-eye perspective, providing views that are simply not possible from the ground.
Tourists will fly over scenic landscapes, including vast waterways, lush islands, and notable landmarks like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle.
When planning for such a tour, it's important for participants to be aware of a few key aspects.
Firstly, weather conditions can significantly affect the schedule, so flexibility and checking forecasts are recommended. Additionally, due to the intimate nature of helicopter tours, passenger weight limits and space constraints may apply.
Most tours offer commentary in multiple languages, enhancing the experience for non-English speakers. Safety is a priority, and participants should be attentive to pre-flight safety briefings and instructions from the staff
Lastly, considering the cost and available packages is essential, as tours vary in duration, amenities, and price points, ensuring there's something suitable for every budget and preference.
A 1000 Islands Helicopter Tour is more than just a scenic ride; it's an unforgettable experience that provides a new perspective on one of nature's most beautiful creations.
Frequently Asked Questions about 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
How long do 1000 Islands helicopter tours typically last?
1000 Islands helicopter tours vary in duration, generally ranging from 10 minutes to over an hour. The length of the tour depends on the package selected, with options catering to different preferences and schedules.
Are there any weight restrictions for passengers?
Yes, weight restrictions are common for helicopter tours due to safety and aircraft balance considerations. Passengers are often required to provide their weight during booking, and limits may vary by tour operator.
What should I wear for a helicopter tour?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for a helicopter tour. It's also wise to dress according to the weather, considering both ground and aerial conditions, as temperatures can be different at altitude.
Is it possible to cancel or reschedule a booked helicopter tour?
Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary by tour operator. Many allow rescheduling or cancellation with advance notice, but some may charge a fee. It's important to review the terms and conditions or contact the provider for specific policy details.
