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3 Best Helicopter Tours in Vancouver + Other Air Tours 2024
Are you ready to take sightseeing to a whole new level?
Look no further than the best helicopter tours in Vancouver!
Vancouver is one of my favorite cities in Canada, and one of the most exciting ways to explore it is by helicopter!
The views from above Vancouver are epic. From snow-capped mountain peaks to the downtown skyline and stunning coastline, a Vancouver helicopter tour is a memorable experience and the best photo op in the Vancouver cityscape.
But with a few different helicopter tours in Vancouver available, how do you choose which one to take?
No worries, this post will help!
Below, I have gathered three of the best helicopter tours in and around Vancouver, as well as some of the best seaplane tours in the city. Whichever you choose, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Helicoter Tours in Vancouver
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
3 Best Helicopter Tours in Vancouver
1. BC Backcountry Helicopter Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 mins | ✅ Book it!
This BC backcountry helicopter tour is without a doubt one of the most thrilling experiences, which is why it is the best helicopter tour in Vancouver.
You’ll board the helicopter at Pitt Meadows, where you’ll soon be soaring over British Columbia’s west coast, its snow-peaked mountains, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
“The pilot was excellent, very professional, and yet made us feel comfortable and safe. Would definitely fly with them again. Thanks to Sky Helicopter for an amazing experience.” Review – GYG Traveler, United States. (Read more reviews)
During the 30-minute flight, your pilot will fly you above Vancouver for unreal views of the city and surrounding area. You will have plenty of opportunities to take those insta-worthy pics!
Throughout the tour, the experienced pilot gives you informative commentary on the environment while you enjoy the scenic flight, making it an adventure you won’t forget.
This helicopter tour is for up to 5 people, including children over 2 years old.
2. Victoria Tour by Helicopter and Seaplane
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
This helicopter and seaplane tour from Vancouver to Victoria is a great way to get across the Strait of Georgia and spend a day or two on Victoria island.
The 8-hour luxury tour starts with you being picked up from your accommodation in Vancouver. Then, it’s off to the helicopter pad, where you have access to the lounge area for complimentary snacks and drinks before boarding.
On the way to Victoria, your scenic flight takes over unobstructed views of the Gulf Islands.
You also get to skip the long ferry lines on this tour, which means you’ll have 6.5 hours to explore Victoria. There’s a lot to see, so don’t forget to wear some comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
“The view was amazing and so worth the trip over, and the staff was very helpful and the service was top-notch. Would go again.” – Review by Russell_M (Read more reviews)
The Royal BC Museum, the Empress Hotel, and Government Street are just some of the places within a few minutes walk from where you arrive at the inner harbour.
After all the walking and shopping, you’ll make your way back to the docks for your seaplane flight back to the mainland, where you’ll then be taken back to Vancouver. The tour also provides a taxi back to your hotel after the tour.
This seaplane and helicopter tour has a maximum capacity of 14 people, and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
3. Helicopter Tour over Vancouver
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 mins | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a unique way to see Vancouver, this private 30-minute helicopter tour over Vancouver provides inflight champagne service for that VIP feel.
Take off is from either Pitt Meadows or Vancouver, whichever works best for you. After takeoff, you will fly over the stunning skyline of downtown Vancouver, with views of Simon Fraser University, the Deep Cove, the Indian Arm Fjord, the Lion’s Gate Bridge, and more.
This isn’t a cheap helicopter tour, but the aerial views, along with the live commentary from your pilot, will create a thrilling experience worth every cent.
You’ll also get a glass of champagne to enjoy during your flight, so you can sit back, relax, and sip on some bubbly as you take in the incredible sights over British Columbia.
Don’t forget your camera and sunglasses. Take a light jacket just in case you feel a bit chilly on the flight.
You can book this private tour for a group of up to 5 people. The minimum age is 19 due to BC’s legal drinking age law.
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
Vancouver Seaplane Tours
In addition to helicopter tours over Vancouver, you also have the option of a seaplane tour.
What’s the difference between them?
Seaplanes are versatile aircraft that can land on both water and land making them ideal for a Vancouver to Victoria tour. They can access remote locations and they offer a smoother ride. Helicopters are known for their agility and maneuverability and can fly at higher altitudes, which is why a tour over downtown Vancouver will be in a helicopter.
Vancouver also has plenty of options when it comes to seaplane tours, so let’s take a look at the best ones below.
4. Seaplane Flight to Victoria with Ground Transport and Butchart Gardens Admission
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 35 mins | ✅ Book it!
The combo seaplane flight to Victoria and Butchart Gardens is a round-trip journey between Vancouver and Victoria. A bus shuttle and admission to the beautiful Butchart Gardens are each included in the price.
Visitors must arrive for a safety briefing 30 minutes before departure from the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre at Cole Harbour. From here, you’ll take off for a 35-minute scenic flight over the Gulf Islands, Mount Baker, and Butchart Gardens before landing at the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria.
“Great experience. Highly recommend this combo tour. Seaplane was incredible way to travel to and from Victoria. The Gardens were amazing.” – Jennifer R. (Read more reviews)
After exploring the sights and landmarks around Victoria and the Butchart Gardens, you can hop back on board the seaplane for an evening flight back to Vancouver.
The good thing about this tour is that you don’t have to get up super early, as there are several morning departures from Vancouver to choose from that run every 30 minutes from 7:30am through 9:00am.
This seaplane tour has a maximum capacity of 11 people, and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
5. Seaplane Flight to Victoria and Whale-Watching Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for an activity with a wow factor, this seaplane flight to Victoria and whale-watching cruise is a great choice.
This once-in-a-lifetime tour runs from March to October when the orcas are feeding on migrating salmon in the Strait of Georgia.
You can check-in 30 minutes before departure at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre in Cole Harbour. This flight has magnificent aerial tour gviews of the Strait of Georgia.
“Great day – sea plane (gorgeous views over Vancouver and the islands around Victoria) whale watching and exploring Victoria Saw humpback whales and also seal lions, seals, and porpoise Would definitely recommend” – Jo_H (Read more reviews)
After landing in Victoria, depending on the option you choose when booking, you’ll board either an open-topped Zodiac or a covered Ocean Cruiser. The cruise will head out to Haro Strait to see the orcas.
On the cruise, you can spot pods of whales, seals, sea lions, and sea otters, all while learning about the diverse ecosystems from your guide.
At the end of the whale-watching cruise, you can choose to head back to Vancouver right away or stay longer in Victoria to take in the local sights before taking a seaplane back to the mainland later in the evening.
The duration of this trip is approximately 10 hours, of which 3 hours are for the whale-watching cruise. It is a small group tour with a maximum of 14 people. On the seaplane, infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket as it can get cold when out on the water.
For the whale watching trip, children of all ages can board the covered Ocean Cruiser, but to board the Zodiac, they must be 6 years old and over and a minimum of 122 cm (4 feet) tall.
6. Vancouver Seaplane Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 20 mins | ✅ Book it!
This Vancouver seaplane tour is one of the cheapest air tours you’ll find and is great value for your money.
If you’re short on time, then this 20-minute flight over Vancouver is for you. You will still get to see so much without giving up your entire day.
Visitors meet at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre at Cole Harbour 30 minutes before your chosen departure time, which you can schedule for 10:30am, 2:30pm, or 6:45pm.
“Amazing flight. Staff were very friendly and the scenery was incredible. Very nice modern aircraft. Definitely worth the money.” – John D. (Read more reviews)
Once you take off, you’ll see breathtaking views of downtown Vancouver, the harbor area, and the North Shore Mountains.
On this tour you will get to see some of Vancouver’s iconic landmarks, including Stanley Park and the Olympic facilities built for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, before returning to Cole Harbour.
This is a small group tour for up to 14 people, and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
7. Extended Vancouver Seaplane Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 45 mins | ✅ Book it!
To really explore British Columbia’s beauty, this extended seaplane tour over Vancouver is ideal for your itinerary.
“Jaw-dropping views. Surreal views of downtown, Howe Sound, snow-capped rocky mountains, oceanside villas, and gorgeous islands. This was a super effectively way to see it all thanks to the harbour air team!” – AdityaTrilok M (Read more reviews)
You’ll check in for your flight 30 minutes before departure. They have a 45-minute flight over the same sights as the original tour but you also get to head north toward Whistler, one of Canada’s top ski resorts.
The seaplane will then loop back over the islands of Howe Sound, and your tour will then take you along the stunning Sunshine Coast before returning to Cole Harbour.
This tour is for a maximum of 7 people, and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
Helicopter Flight Vancouver Tips
Knowing what to expect from a helicopter tour in Vancouver can make the whole experience more enjoyable. So to make sure everything runs smoothly, here are some tips for getting the most out of your tour:
- Double-check the tour description and read the fine print before booking a tour. Make sure you understand what is included in the package. Can you get your money back if the tour is canceled due to bad weather? Weather conditions change often due to rain, so this is very important. Are you being picked up from your hotel, or do you have a specific meeting point?
- Check-in is 30 minutes before your tour begins so your pilot can go over what you can expect on the flight, give you some basic safety instructions, and answer any questions.
- Once in the helicopter, you must keep your seatbelt buckled at all times. You’ll wear noise-canceling headphones, and you’ll be able to hear and talk to the pilot and others in your group.
- Bring a hoodie just in case you get a bit chilly on the flight, but the helicopters are temperature controlled, so this shouldn’t be too much of a concern.
- You must show your picture ID before boarding. A government-issued Passport or driver’s license is acceptable.
- Helicopter tours have a weight limit of 250 – 300 lbs. This is because helicopters have a maximum weight capacity and other restrictions that keep them balanced, so each traveler’s weight has to be collected to ensure the total weight load of each flight isn’t exceeded. This makes sure your helicopter tour will be safe.
- Gratuities are not included in the price. Tipping your pilot is optional.
FAQs About Vancouver Helicopter Tours
Are Vancouver helicopter tours worth it?
A Vancouver helicopter tour is definitely worth it. It gives you one of the best ways to see British Columbia’s stunning scenery. You can get incredible views of downtown, the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountains, and a range of wildlife depending on your chosen tour.
What time of day is best for a helicopter tour over Vancouver?
Any time of day is great for any of the Vancouver helicopter tours, but it can also depend on the experience you’re looking for. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to capture the natural light and take some amazing photos.
Can you take your phone on a Vancouver helicopter ride?
Yes, you can take your phone on a tour. And you should so that you can take loads of photos of the scenery.
Do you get motion sickness on a helicopter?
If you’re prone to motion sickness, flying in a helicopter can trigger it. Over-the-counter medication and sitting and facing forward can help alleviate symptoms. Let your pilot know so they can be prepared for the flight and plan for smoother altitude changes. Drinking plenty of water and sucking on some peppermints is also known to help.
Can I bring children on a Vancouver helicopter tour?
Most helicopter tours allow children but check with the tour company when booking. Children under 2 can generally sit on an adult’s lap, but all children aged 2 and over must have their own seats.
What will you see?
You will see the coastal mountain ranges of Vancouver, the famous Comox glacier, and regions like the Discovery Islands and Campbell River.
Wrap-Up: Best Helicopter Tour in Vancouver
Exploring Vancouver from the skies is an amazing way to take in its rugged beauty. Taking a helicopter tour allows you to really experience the vast landscapes of British Columbia.
From spectacular bird’s eye views of the snow-capped North Shore Mountains to downtown Vancouver and Vancouver Island, a helicopter ride offers sightseeing and views of places you cannot get to easily on foot or by car.
There is no better way to see the sights of this beautiful part of Canada than on a helicopter tour. It is a trip you will never forget – especially the BC Backcountry Helicopter Tour, my #1 recommendation for Helicopter Tours in Vancouver
More About British Columbia:
- 20 Pros And Cons Of Living In Vancouver, BC Canada
- 37 Amazing Vancouver Bucket List Things to Do
- 7 Best Whale Watching Tours in Vancouver Canada
- 11 Best Whale Watching Tours in Victoria, BC: An Honest Review
- 37 Best Day Trips From Vancouver
- 29 Best Things to Do in Ucluelet, BC
- Where to Stay in Vancouver, British Columbia
- Where to Kayak in Vancouver, BC: 23 Best Places
- 11 Best Resorts in Whistler
- 30 Best Camping on Vancouver Island, BC
- 39 Best Waterfalls in Vancouver Island to Visit
- 17 Best White Water Rafting Vancouver Tours
- 23 Best Things to Do in Deep Cove, Vancouver BC
- 3 Best Whale Watching Tours In Tofino
- High Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria BC
More About Helicopter Tours in Canada
- 12 Best Jasper Helicopter Tours
- 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
- 3 Best Toronto Helicopter Tours for Aerial Views
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
