If you’ve been thinking about booking a flight in a helicopter, Melbourne is one of the best cities in Australia for spectacular helicopter tours and scenic flight experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic flight around Melbourne’s city or beaches, a wine tour by helicopter to the Yarra Valley or a private flight to the 12 Apostles, Melbourne has more than 50 amazing helicopter rides to choose from.
Unfortunately, with so many different options for scenic flights and winery tours, it can be extremely difficult deciding where you should fly and whether the experience will be worth it.
The cost of helicopter rides and quality of the experience also varies drastically across helicopter tour companies and it’s often not clear who you should book with and what you can expect.
In this guide we’ve listed every type of flight, reviewed every helicopter company in Melbourne and compared all their prices to help you find the best price and the best experience.
Looking for a shorter list? Check out the 6 Best Helicopter Rides in Melbourne.
Whether you’re booking a helicopter ride to surprise a partner on your anniversary, a family member on their birthday or you simply want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Melbourne, this guide will help you answer the questions:
- Where can you fly in a helicopter?
- How much will it cost?
- Which company should you fly with?
If you want more personalised advice on choosing a helicopter flight or selecting a tour company, please get in touch on (03) 7065 1888 or concierge@rotor.one and we’d be happy to help.
What types of helicopter rides can you book in Melbourne?
There are 6 different helicopter experiences you can choose from in Melbourne:
-
Helicopter rides up to 30 minutes over Melbourne’s CBD, coast and beaches
-
Helicopter wine tours to the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula and Nagambie with a private landing at a winery
-
Helicopter scenic tours of 30 minutes or longer to Phillip Island, the 12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road
-
Helicopter snow tours to Craig's Hut (Mt Sterling), Mt Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham with a private landing at a ski resort
-
Helicopter adventures including Helicopter Mountain Biking with a private landing, rental bikes and shuttle
- Helicopter charter flights to custom locations with a private landing at regional airports or on private property
1. Helicopter Rides over Melbourne CBD and Beaches of Port Phillip Bay
Helicopter Rides over Melbourne CBD
Rated one of the best things to do in Melbourne, the most popular helicopter flight in Melbourne takes you on a scenic tour of the city offering panoramic views of Melbourne’s best landmarks and tourist attractions from above.
What will you see on a Helicopter Ride over Melbourne City?
Melbourne City scenic flights have a duration of 20 minutes and fly an orbit around Melbourne’s CBD and over popular landmarks including:
- Melbourne Star Observation Wheel
- Eureka Skydeck
- Station Pier — where the Spirit of Tasmania is docked
- St Kilda Beach — including the famous St Kilda boardwalk
- Albert Park — where the Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place
- Yarra River
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Rod Laver Arena — where the Australian Open is held
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
📷 Photo by How much does a Helicopter Ride over Melbourne CBD cost?
Five helicopter tour companies offer helicopter rides over Melbourne CBD and the best price is $200 per person with Rotor One and Melbourne Heli.
|
Time |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
|
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
|
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Essendon |
PremiAir via Adrenaline |
$225 per person (+$25) |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay *coastal route only |
Moorabbin |
Helicopter Group |
$262 per person (+$62) |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
$308 per person (+$108) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one, phs.com.au, adrenaline.com.au, melbourneheli.com, helicoptergroup.com and microflite.com.au.
NOTE: Due to the short 20 minute flight time, tours from Moorabbin will not fly an orbit around Melbourne CBD and instead fly along the coast and beaches of Port Phillip Bay and turn back once they reach the city.
Shared Flights
Some helicopter tour companies also offer shared flights which involve selling other available seats in the helicopter to the general public so you will share the helicopter with people outside your booking.
|
Time |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Essendon |
PremiAir via Adrenaline |
$185 per person *shared flight |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay *coastal route only |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$190 per person (+$5) |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay *coastal route only |
Moorabbin |
Microflite via Adrenaline |
$273 per person (+$88) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at redballoon.com.au, phs.com.au, microflite.com.au and adrenaline.com.au.
NOTE: Shared flights are perfect if you’re flying alone however often require a minimum number of passengers to “activate” meaning they are rescheduled until the helicopter is fully booked.
BONUS FOR COUPLES: If you're looking to celebrate a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary with your partner, upgrade your scenic flight to an Exclusive Couples Anniversary Flight. You'll enjoy champagne on arrival, a private tour of the hangar, in-flight video recording of your flight and a personalised souvenir to take with you after your flight.
Helicopter Ride over Melbourne City and Port Phillip Bay
This tour is an extended scenic flight over Melbourne’s CBD and coast including the beaches of Port Phillip Bay such as the iconic Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes.
What will you see on a Helicopter Ride over Melbourne City and Port Phillip Bay?
With a flight time of 25 - 30 minutes, Melbourne City and Port Phillip Bay scenic flights fly an orbit around the CBD and down the coast over Melbourne’s famous beaches and marinas including:
- St Kilda Pier
- Elwood Beach
- Brighton Beach and Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes — the 82 brightly coloured and famous beach huts built in the 1900s
- Sandringham Beach and Sandringham Yacht Club — where a J7 Submarine from World War 1 is visible
- Half Moon Bay — where the shipwreck of the 19th century warship HMAS Cerberus is visible
- Ricketts Point — including the Marine Sanctuary where multiple reefs and sea caves are visible
📷 Photo by The advantage of these scenic flights is that helicopters are able to fly as low as 500 feet (150 metres) when above water, meaning you get close-up views of beaches, boats and people as they walk and sail in Port Phillip Bay below.
How much does a Helicopter Ride over Melbourne City and Port Phillip Bay cost?
Five helicopter tour companies offer helicopter rides over Melbourne City and Port Phillip Base and the best price is $250 per person with Rotor One and Melbourne Heli.
|
Time |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Price |
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
|
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
|
|
25 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$285 per person (+$35) |
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Moorabbin |
Helicopter Group |
$301 per person (+$51) |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
$308 per person (+$58) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one, melbourneheli.com, phs.com.au, helicoptergroup.com and microflite.com.au.
BONUS FOR KIDS & FAMILIES: If you're looking celebrating the birthday of one of your children, upgrade your scenic flight to a Kid's Co-Pilot Experience. Let your child's curiosity run wild as they learn how helicopters fly, receive a video recording of their flight and, best of all, get to ride in the front seat as co-pilot!
2. Helicopter Winery Tours to the Yarra Valley
The second most popular destination for helicopter rides is to a winery in the Yarra Valley. See our Ultimate Guide to Helicopter Wine Tours in the Yarra Valley.
These scenic flights are combined with wine tours and winery lunch experiences at premium wineries in the Yarra Valley making them the perfect half-day trip.
What will you see on a helicopter winery tour to the Yarra Valley?
With a 20 - 30 minute scenic flight from Melbourne, helicopter wine tours will give you panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, Mount Dandenong and the Yarra Valley.
Helicopter wine tours to the Yarra Valley have the added benefit of landing directly at the winery or vineyard and occasionally right in-front of the restaurant or cellar door, making them a spectacular way to arrive for a wine tour or winery lunch.
Helicopter wine tours are often paired with wine tours and lunch packages meaning the price you pay includes the helicopter flight, wine tasting and set lunch menu so you won’t have to take out your credit card during your visit.
TIP: If you’re considering buying a bottle or case to take home, be sure to ask your helicopter tour company if there are any weight limitations as helicopters have weight and balance restrictions that may limit how much baggage you can take.
What are the best wineries to visit in the Yarra Valley by helicopter?
The most popular helicopter wine tours from Melbourne to Yarra Valley wineries include:
- Hubert Estate
- Levantine Hill
- Balgownie Estate
- Rochford Wines
- Meletos
- De Bortoli
- TarraWarra
- Zonzo
Hubert Estate
Hubert Estate is Yarra Valley's newest winery venue combining a rich wine-making history with the St Hubert's Cellar Door, delicious modern-Australian lunch menu at Quarters Restaurant and it's very own Aboriginal Art Gallery. Fly to Hubert Estate on an exclusive Yarra Valley helicopter tour with Rotor One - A VIP experience not available from anywhere else.
Yarra Valley Helicopter Tour to Hubert Estate
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Hubert Estate cost?
Only one helicopter tour company offers flights and winery experiences to Hubert Estate and the best price is $840 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Hubert Estate |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one.
Levantine Hill
Levantine Hill Estate is a winery, cellar door and restaurant located in Coldstream. Levantine Hill offers wine tasting with their award-winning wines matched to a seasonal snack and three, five or seven mediterranean-inspired sharing plates.
Helicopter Wine Tour to Levantine Hill
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Levantine Hill in the Yarra Valley cost?
Three helicopter tour companies offer flights and winery experiences to Levantine Hill and the best price is $600 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
|
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Flights |
$845 per person (+$245) |
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
Flights, 1 Wine, 2 Courses |
$1,098 per person (+$498) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one, melbourneheli.com and microflite.com.au.
Balgownie Estate
Balgownie Estate stands out as a premier winery destination in the Yarra Valley, blending award-winning wines with exceptional experiences. With roots dating back to 1969, this pioneering vineyard offers a rich array of indulgences, from its 5-star Halliday-rated wines at the Cellar Door to the exquisite culinary creations at Restaurant 1309.
https://www.balgownie.com/yarra-valley
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Balgownie Estate cost?
Only one helicopter tour company offers flights and winery experiences to Balgownie Estate and the best price is $890 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Balgownie Estate |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one
Rochford Wines
Rochford Wines, is a family-run winery known for its vibrant live entertainment and exquisite fine-dining at Isabella's restaurant. Renowned for producing classic Yarra Valley wines such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from its three meticulously maintained vineyards, Rochford is a beacon of sustainable viticulture. Land next to Isabella's Restaurant and indulge in French-Mediterranean culinary delights, complemented by Rochford's award-winning wines.
https://www.rochfordwines.com.au
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Rochford Wines in the Yarra Valley cost?
Three helicopter tour companies offer flights and winery experiences to Levantine Hill and the best price is $840 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Rochford Wines |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one
Meletos
Meletos is located next to Stones of the Yarra Valley on the same estate in Coldstream. Meletos offers Euro-Australian inspired food with a two or three course menu and also has a bar and outdoor rotisserie with views to the Great Dividing Range.
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Meletos in the Yarra Valley cost?
Two helicopter tour companies offer flights and winery experiences to Meletos and the best price is $600 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Meletos |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
|
|
25 minutes |
Meletos |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Flights |
$845 per person (+$245) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one and melbourneheli.com.
De Bortoli
De Bortoli is a premium winery and restaurant located in Dixons Creek. Recognised for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, De Bortoli offers authentic Italian dishes with two or three course sampling menus matched to premium wines in their Locale restaurant.
How much does a helicopter winery tour to De Bortoli in the Yarra Valley cost?
Two helicopter tour companies offer flights and winery experiences to De Bortoli and the best price is $525 per person with Professional Helicopter Services (PHS).
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
15 minutes |
De Bortoli |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
Flights, 2 Wine, 2 Courses |
|
|
25 minutes |
De Bortoli |
Essendon |
PremiAir via RedBalloon |
Flights, 3 Wine, 3 Courses |
$750 per person (+$225) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at rotor.one and melbourneheli.com.
TarraWarra
TarraWarra Estate is a premium winery, art museum and restaurant located in Yarra Glen. Known for the curved stone entrance to its Cellar Door, TarraWarra offers wine tasting and a contemporary restaurant serving Modern Australian food.
How much does a helicopter winery tour to TarraWarra in the Yarra Valley cost?
Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) is the only helicopter tour company offering flights and winery experiences to TarraWarra and they cost $805 per person.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
15 minutes |
TarraWarra |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
Flights, 4 Wine, 4 Courses |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at phs.com.au.
Zonzo
Zonzo Estate is a winery and restaurant located in Yarra Glen. Zonzo is an award-winning wedding venue and the restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine with paired estate wines in an open space with a fireplace and vineyard views.
How much does a helicopter winery tour to Zonzo in the Yarra Valley cost?
Two helicopter tour companies offer flights and winery experiences to Zonzo Estate and the best price is $790 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
| 25 minutes | Zonzo | Essendon | Rotor One | Flights, 2 Wine, 5 Courses | $790 per person ✅ |
|
20 minutes |
Zonzo |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
Flights, 2 Wine, 5 Courses |
* Prices based on 2 passengers and pricing information at microflite.com.au.
How much does a winery tour to the Yarra Valley by helicopter cost?
Based on a comparison of helicopter wine tours to the Yarra Valley, the best value flights are offered by PHS starting at $525 per person (*short flight) and Rotor One starting at $600 per person.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
15 minutes |
De Bortoli |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
Flights, 2 Wine, 2 Courses |
$525 per person ✅ *short flight |
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
|
|
25 minutes |
Stones of the Yarra Valley |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
|
|
25 minutes |
Meletos |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights |
|
|
25 minutes |
De Bortoli |
Essendon |
RedBalloon |
Flights, 3 Wine, 3 Courses |
$750 per person (+$225) |
| 25 minutes | Zonzo | Essendon | Rotor One | Flights, 2 Wine, 5 Courses | $790 per person ✅ |
|
15 minutes |
TarraWarra |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
Flights, 4 Wine, 4 Courses |
$805 per person ✅ *short flight |
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Flights |
$845 per person (+$345) |
|
25 minutes |
Stones of the Yarra Valley |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Flights |
$845 per person (+$345) |
|
25 minutes |
Meletos |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Flights |
$845 per person (+$345) |
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
Flights, 1 Wine, 2 Courses |
$1,098 per person (+$598) |
|
20 minutes |
Zonzo |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
Flights, 2 Wine, 5 Courses |
* Prices based on 2 passengers return and pricing information at rotor.one, phs.com.au, redballoon.com.au, melbourneheli.com and microflite.com.au.
Helicopter Brewery Tours and Heli Pub Crawls in the Yarra Valley
As an alternative to traditional winery tours, heli pub crawls and brewery and distillery tours by helicopter are gaining popularity as they offer a more authentic, grounded experience in the Yarra Valley.
One example is the Beer, Burgers & Gin Tour which includes a 25 minute scenic flight to Healesville in the Yarra Valley.
The tour begins at Watts River Brewery for boutique beer tasting, lunch at Monroe's Burgers for their famous burger creations and continues to Four Pillars Gin Distillery for their famous gin & tonic tasting experience.
How much does a Helicopter Brewery Tour in the Yarra Valley cost?
Rotor One is the only helicopter tour company offering helicopter brewery and heli pub crawls in the Yarra Valley and they cost $700 per person.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
25 minutes |
Watts River Brewery |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights, Beer Tasting, Burger Lunch & Gin Tasting |
* Prices based on 2 passengers return and pricing information at rotor.one.
3. Scenic Flights from Melbourne to Phillip Island and the 12 Apostles
Phillip Island
An incredibly popular tourist destination in Australia, Phillip Island is home to several famous attractions including the Nobbies (home to Victoria's largest little penguin colony), Seal Rocks (a popular breeding ground for Australian fur seals) and Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit (home of the MotoGP). A scenic flight around Phillip Island from Melbourne takes just 1 hour and 30 minutes by helicopter, or over 5 hours if you were to do the same journey by car.
What can you expect on a Scenic Flight around Phillip Island?
A scenic flight past Melbourne City and down the coast of Port Phillip Bay where you’ll spot popular landmarks like the Brighton Beach Boxes and the HMAS Cerberus shipwreck at Black Rock.
Your Phillip Island scenic flight continues past Mornington Pier and the iconic Red Hill wine region before arriving overhead the famous Seal Rocks, Summerland Beach (home to the famous Penguin Parade) and the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
On the eastern side of Phillip Island you’ll discover San Remo bridge and the villages of Rhyll and Cowes Cowes before heading back for Melbourne.
📷 Photo by Phillip Island Helicopter Tour with Rotor One
This allows you to view other famous formations including Loch Ard Gorge, the Sentinel, the Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto, Schomberg Reef and the Bay of Islands, making the most of your time at the 12 Apostles.
ADD-ON: Customise your Phillip Island helicopter flight to be a one-way trip to watch the Penguin Parade, or choose to include a winery stopover for lunch at one of Phillip Island's stunning wineries.
How much do helicopter flights from Melbourne to Phillip Island cost?
The only helicopter tour company offer direct scenic flights to Phillip Island is Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
90 minutes |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Private helicopter |
* Prices based on 2 passengers return and pricing information at rotor.one.
12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road
The most spectacular helicopter tour in Australia is a scenic flight to the 12 Apostles which takes 1 hour and 15 minutes by helicopter from Melbourne (or 4.5 hours to drive).
What can you expect on a Scenic Flight to the 12 Apostles?
You will fly over the Great Ocean Road with amazing views of Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay and Cape Otway, the oldest lighthouse in Australia.
Arriving at the 12 Apostles and the spectacular limestone formations, your helicopter will land at the Twelve Apostles Helipad and Visitor Center to refuel and allow you to have some time on the ground.
A short walk to the 12 Apostles boardwalk will take you to many of the best viewpoints for the Twelve Apostles or the 89 steps down at Gibson Steps will lead you to the beach to see the 12 Apostles at sea level.
📷 the common wanderer
TIP: Check with your helicopter tour company how much time they allow on the ground for you to experience the 12 Apostles on foot with 2 hours being a comfortable time to explore the viewpoints and get down to the beach.
TIP: Check if your helicopter tour company includes a scenic flight from the 12 Apostles to the Bay of Islands which is an additional 10 minutes flight along the Shipwreck Coast.
This allows you to view other famous formations including Loch Ard Gorge, the Sentinel, the Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto, Schomberg Reef and the Bay of Islands, making the most of your time at the 12 Apostles.
ADD-ON: There is also the option of a wine tour or winery lunch on the Bellarine Peninsula at Clyde Park Estate, Mount Duneed Estate, Terindah Estate or Jack Rabbit Winery before returning home and expect this to be an additional cost.
How much do helicopter flights from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road cost?
Four helicopter tour companies offer flights to the 12 Apostles and the best price is $1,250 per person with Rotor One.
|
Flight |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Price |
|
80 minutes |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Time on ground, Extended flight to Bay of Islands + Winery stopover |
|
|
90 minutes |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
Time on ground |
$1,260 per person (+$10) |
|
80 minutes |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
Time on ground & Extended flight to Bay of Islands + Winery stopover |
$1,495 per person (+$245) |
|
75 minutes |
City Helipad |
Microflite |
Time on ground |
$2,448 per person (+$1,198) |
* Prices based on 2 passengers return and pricing information at rotor.one, phs.com.au, melbourneheli.com and microflite.com.au.
4. Helicopter Flights from Melbourne to Ski Resorts in Victoria
Helicopters make it possible to visit Ski Resorts in Victoria to go skiing or snowboarding in a single day-trip from Melbourne.
Snow flights to Mt Buller, Falls Creek and Mt Hotham by helicopter
Victoria has world-class ski resorts accessible by helicopter including Mt Buller with 25 runs and a 1,600m summit, Falls Creek with 92 runs and a 1,780m summit and Mt Hotham with 72 runs and a 1,862m summit.
Microflite and Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) offer snow flights from Melbourne to Mt Buller (1 hour flight), Falls Creek (1.5 hour flight) and Mt Hotham (1.5 hour flight) and land directly at each ski resort.
NOTE: Snow flights by helicopter are heavily dependent on weather and often cancelled due to rain, fog or snow so it’s important to be flexible and have a backup plan to reach your ski resort.
Alternatively, if you'd like to experience the beauty of the Snowy Mountains without the hassle of bringing ski equipment, fly to Craig's Hut in the Snowy Mountains. Made famous by the movie Man from Snowy River, enjoy a romantic picnic overlooking. the Snowy Mountains and explore the history and Victorian high country just beyond Mt Buller snow fields.
How much do helicopter flights to ski resorts in Victoria cost?
Based on a comparison of helicopter flights to Victoria’s ski resorts, the best value flights are offered by Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) starting at $1,755 per person to Mt Buller and by Microflite starting at $2,648 per person to Falls Creek or Mt Hotham (prices based on 2 passengers travelling).
|
Flight |
Ski Resort |
Departs |
Company |
Price |
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
|
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$2,048 per person (+$293) |
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
|
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$3,120 per person (+$472) |
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
|
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$3,025 per person (+377) |
* Prices based on return flights for 2 people and pricing information at phs.com.au and microflite.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
ADD-ON: Both Microflite and Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) offer departures and return flights from the Melbourne City Helipad located on the Yarra River in Southbank near Crown Casino and the Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) Helipad at an additional cost of between $300 - $1,000.
The prices for snow flights to Victoria’s ski resorts becomes almost 50% cheaper when larger groups fly as they can better share the cost of hiring and operating the helicopter (prices based on 4+ passengers travelling).
|
Flight |
Ski Resort |
Departs |
Company |
Price |
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
|
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$1,195 per person (+$318) |
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
|
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$1,595 per person (+$35) |
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
|
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$1,595 per person (+$80) |
* Prices based on return flights for 4+ people and pricing information at phs.com.au and microflite.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
Scenic Flights to the Snowy Mountains
Alternatively, if you'd like to experience the beauty of the Snowy Mountains without the hassle of bringing ski equipment, fly to Craig's Hut in the Snowy Mountains. Made famous by the movie Man from Snowy River, enjoy a romantic picnic overlooking. the Snowy Mountains and explore the history and Victorian high country just beyond Mt Buller snow fields.
How much do helicopter flights to Craig's Hut in the Snowy Mountains cost?
Rotor One is the only helicopter company in melbourne offering helicopter flights to Craig's Hut in the Snowy Mountains. The package also includes a Gourmet Picnic Hamper.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departs |
Company |
Price |
|
60 minutes |
Craig's Hut |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
* Prices based on return flights for 2 people and pricing information at rotor.one
5. Helicopter Tours to Mountain Bike Parks in Victoria
Helicopters make it possible to visit Victoria’s best mountain bike parks including Mystic Bike Park in Bright, Mt Buller Bike Park and Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park all in a single day-trip from Melbourne.
Heli Mountain Biking Tours to Mystic Bike Park in Bright
Mystic Mountain Bike Park in Bright is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in Victoria and you can arrive in 1 hour and 15 minutes by helicopter from Melbourne (or 4 hours by car).
Mystic Bike Park in Bright plays host to the Downhill World Cup and has very diverse mountain biking trails suited to downhill, cross-country, eBike and novice riders.
A Heli Mountain Biking Tour includes Downhill or eBike rental, a full day shuttle service up the mountain and up to 5 hours of riding with return scenic flights from Melbourne.
While you cannot bring your own mountain bike on this mountain biking experience just yet, Rotor One have confirmed they’re working on a package to include transport of mountain bikes in 2022.
How much does a Heli Mountain Biking Tour in Victoria cost?
Rotor One is the only helicopter tour company in Melbourne offering a Heli Mountain Biking experience including flights, rental bikes and shuttles priced at $1,500 per person.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Departure |
Company |
Includes |
Flight |
|
75 minutes |
Mystic Bike Park (Bright) |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
Flights, bike & shuttle |
* Prices based on return flights and pricing information at rotor.one.
6. Hiring a helicopter and helicopter charter flights in Melbourne
Hiring a helicopter for private charter is a highly efficient way to travel to destinations outside Melbourne to regional areas in Victoria and allows you to have complete flexibility over your trip itinerary.
Hiring a helicopter also has the advantage of flying to locations you select and landing at regional aerodromes, small airstrips or on private property where the helicopter company deems the landing area safe.
For small groups, helicopter tour companies operate smaller 4-seater helicopters such as the Robinson R44, the world’s most widely sold helicopter with capacity for a pilot + 3 passengers.
How much does it cost to hire a helicopter for private charter in Melbourne?
Based on a comparison of private charter rates, Melbourne Heli offers the best price at $1,045 per hour for 2 passengers flying in a 3-passenger helicopter (Robinson R44).
|
Flight |
Type |
Departure |
Company |
Price |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
$523 per person ✅ or $1045 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter |
Essendon |
Rotor One |
$550 per person (+$27) or $1,100 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter |
Moorabbin |
Helicopter Group |
$580 per person (+$57) or $1,160 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$684 per person (+$161) or $1,368 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$979 per person (+$456) or $1,958 per helicopter |
* Prices based on 2 people and pricing information at melbourneheli.com, rotor.one, helicoptergroup.com, phs.com.au and microflite.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
For small groups, helicopter tour companies operate larger helicopters such as the Robinson R66 (4 passengers), Bell 206 (4 passengers), Airbus EC120 (4 passengers) and Airbus AS350 (4-5 passengers).
While larger helicopters have a higher cost per hour, the cost of private charter becomes cheaper per person when shared across a group of 4+ people.
|
Flight |
Type |
Departure |
Company |
Price |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter (4+ passengers) |
Essendon |
Melbourne Heli |
$355 per person ✅ or $1,419 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter (4+ passengers) |
Moorabbin |
PHS |
$493 per helicopter (+$138) or $2,052 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter (4+ passengers) |
Moorabbin |
Helicopter Group |
$525 per person (+$170) or $2,100 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Private Charter (4+ passengers) |
Moorabbin |
Microflite |
$578 per person (+$223) or $2,312 per helicopter |
* Prices based on 4 people and pricing information at melbourneheli.com, phs.com.au, helicoptergroup.com and microflite.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
NOTE: When hiring a helicopter for private charter you can expect the price to increase for any time spent on the ground as helicopter tour companies usually charge an hourly standby rate while your helicopter and pilot are on standby during your trip.
Which helicopter tour company should you fly with in Melbourne?
The first step in deciding which helicopter tour company you should fly with, is understanding your options in terms of departure locations.
Where do helicopter rides depart from in Melbourne?
Helicopter tours depart from 4 main locations in Melbourne including Essendon Airport, Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne City Helipad in Southbank and Tullamarine Airport.
-
Essendon Airport — 15 minutes north of Melbourne CBD with flights offered by Melbourne Heli, Rotor One and PremiAir (via RedBalloon).
-
Moorabbin Airport — 40 minutes south of Melbourne CBD with flights offered by Microflite, Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) and The Helicopter Group.
-
Melbourne City Helipad — Located on the Yarra River in Southbank near Crown Casino and has flights offered by Microflite and Professional Helicopter Services (PHS)
- Tullamarine Airport — Located a 5 minute drive from the terminal at the Mercedes Benz dealership and primarily used for private charter flights.
NOTE: Expect a higher price for flights departing Melbourne City Helipad and Tullamarine Airport as these locations incur landing fees and tour companies must fly their helicopters in from their home airport resulting in additional running time.
Helicopter Flights from Essendon Fields Airport
The helicopter tour companies operating at Essendon Airport are Rotor One - Melbourne Helicopter Rides, Melbourne Heli and PremiAir (via Adrenaline.com.au).
Rotor One - Melbourne Helicopter Rides
Rotor One provides scenic flights, wine tours, private charter and helicopter adventure flights from their private hangar which includes a customer lounge, flight school and hangar viewing area.
Rotor One specialises in creating unique flight experiences and is the only helicopter tour company in Melbourne offering adventure flights for Heli-Mountain Biking and Heli-Surfing.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
Rotor One operates in partnership with Melbourne Heli at Essendon Airport allowing both companies to utilise pilots and helicopters across the fleet to offer unique flight experiences and cater for group bookings.
Rotor One primarily operates near new, 3-passenger helicopters (Robinson R44) with leather seats, air-conditioning and noise-cancelling headsets.
Destinations
Rotor One offers private flights around Melbourne City and the beaches of Port Phillip Bay, the Yarra Valley, Bellarine Peninsula, Phillip Island, 12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road, Victoria’s surf coast including Torquay and Bells Beach, and Victoria’s mountain bike parks including Mystic Bike Park in Bright and Mt Buller Bike Park.
How much do Helicopter Rides cost with Rotor One?
|
Flight |
Destination |
Type |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill Winery (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Stones of the Yarra Valley |
Wine Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Meletos Winery (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Beers, Burgers & Gin (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
40 minutes |
Mitchelton Winery (Nagambie) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
40 minutes |
Clyde Park Winery (Bellarine) |
Wine Tour |
|
| 25 minutes | Zonzo Estate | Wine Tour | $790 per person |
|
45 minutes |
Mt Duneed Winery (Bellarine) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
35 minutes |
Heli Surfing (Torquay) |
Adventure |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (2 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$550 per person or |
|
80 minutes |
12 Apostles + Great Ocean Road |
Scenic Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (3 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$450 per person or |
|
75 minutes |
Heli Mountain Biking (Mystic Bike Park) |
Adventure |
* Prices based on 2 people and pricing information at rotor.one
Summary
Rotor One is a highly customer-focused tour company working to democratise helicopter tours and make unforgettable flight experiences available to everyone.
From the simple booking system on their website to the polaroid photo they give to each guest at the end of every flight, Rotor One goes out of their way to make people smile.
They've also collected over 350+ five star reviews from guests and have recently expanded to Sydney, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast.
Melbourne Heli
Melbourne Heli provides scenic flights, wine tours, private charter and flight training from their private hangar which includes a customer lounge, flight school and hangar viewing area.
In operation for more than 8 years, Melbourne Heli is also one of Australia’s leading flight schools, giving you the opportunity to actually fly yourself on your first helicopter ride.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
Melbourne Heli has 10 pilots on staff across a fleet of 7 helicopters including 3-passenger (Robinson R44) and 4-passenger (Robinson R66) helicopters with leather seats, air-conditioning and noise-cancelling headsets.
Destinations
Melbourne Heli offers private flights around Melbourne City and the beaches of Port Phillip Bay, the Yarra Valley, Bellarine Peninsula, Phillip Island and the 12 Apostles.
How much do Helicopter Rides cost with Melbourne Heli?
|
Flight |
Destination |
Flight |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
1 hour |
Mt Dandenong + Yarra Valley |
Scenic Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill Winery (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Meletos Winery (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
25 minutes |
Stones of the Yarra Valley |
Wine Tour |
|
|
45 minutes |
Clyde Park Winery (Nagambie) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
45 minutes |
Mt Duneed Winery (Bellarine) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (2 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$523 per person or $1045 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (3 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$414 per person or $1,244 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (4+ passengers) |
Private Charter |
$355 per person or $1,419 per helicopter |
|
75 minutes |
12 Apostles + Great Ocean Road |
Scenic Flight |
* Prices based on 2 people and pricing information at melbourneheli.com
Summary
Melbourne Heli is a highly experienced helicopter tour company with exceptionally friendly staff, a competitive helicopter fleet and an exceptional safety record.
Adrenaline.com.au via PremiAir
Founded in 2020, PremiAir provides scenic flights and wine tours in partnership with gift voucher company Adrenaline.com.au.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
PremiAir has 1 pilot on staff and operates a 4 passenger helicopter (Robinson R44).
Destinations
PremiAir provides scenic flights and wine tours from a shared hangar at Essendon Airport and provide shared scenic flights of Melbourne City.
How much do Helicopter Rides cost with Adrenaline.com.au via PremiAir?
Adrenaline.com.au flights offered via PremiAir are shared which involve selling other available seats in the helicopter to the general public so you will share the helicopter with people outside your booking.
|
Flight |
Destination |
Type |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Helicopter Ride |
$185 per person via Adrenaline *shared flight |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD |
Helicopter Ride |
$225 per person via Adrenaline |
* Prices based on pricing information at redballoon.com.au
NOTE: Shared flights are good if you’re flying alone however often require a minimum number of passengers to “activate” meaning they may be rescheduled until the helicopter is fully booked.
It’s worth noting that travel experience and gift voucher companies such as Red Balloon take a 25% - 30% commission fee on all sales meaning a large percentage of the price you pay doesn’t make it to the tour company itself.
Summary
PremiAir is a small helicopter tour company that has received 15+ positive reviews on Google over the last 2 years.
Helicopter Flights from Moorabbin Airport
Microflite
Microflite provides scenic flights, wine tours, golf tours, wedding transfers, airport transfers, snow transfers and private charter from their private hangar at Moorabbin Airport which includes a luxury customer lounge and hangar viewing area.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
In operation since 2000, Microflite has 24 pilots and 19 helicopters (the largest fleet of turbine helicopters in Victoria) including 4-passenger (Airbus EC120), 5-passenger (Airbus AS350) and 6-passenger (Airbus EC130) helicopters.
Destinations
Microflite offers private flights to the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula, Phillip Island and the 12 Apostles, along with private and shared flights around Melbourne CBD and Port Phillip Bay.
How much do Helicopter Rides cost with Microflite?
|
Flight |
Destination |
Type |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
$273 per person via Adrenaline *shared flight |
|
20 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
25 minutes |
Levantine Hill (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
20 minutes |
Zonzo (Yarra Valley) |
Wine Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (2 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$979 per person or $1,958 per helicopter |
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Snow Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (3 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$692 per person or $2,078 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (4+ passengers) |
Private Charter |
$578 per person or $2,312 per helicopter |
|
75 minutes |
12 Apostles + Great Ocean Road |
Scenic Tour |
|
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Snow Tour |
|
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Snow Tour |
* Prices based on pricing information at microflite.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
Microflite also owns and departs from the Melbourne City Helipad located on the Yarra River in Southbank near Crown Casino which includes a luxury customer lounge overlooking Batman Park.
Summary
Microflite has created a strong reputation as a luxury helicopter tour company serving VIP and corporate clients and transported more than 20,000 passengers last year.
Professional Helicopter Services (PHS)
PHS provides scenic flights, wine tours, golf tours, wedding transfers, snow transfers, private charter and flight training from their private hangar at Moorabbin Airport which includes a customer lounge and hangar viewing area.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
In operation since 1981, Professional Helicopters Services (PHS) has more than 10 pilots and 7 helicopters including 3-passenger (Robinson R44), 4-passenger (Bell 206 Jet Ranger, Airbus AS350) and 6-passenger (Bell 206 Long Ranger, Airbus EC130) helicopters.
Destinations
Professional Helicopters Services (PHS) offers private flights to the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula, Phillip Island and the 12 Apostles, along with private and shared flights around Melbourne CBD and Port Phillip Bay.
How much do Helicopter Rides cost with Professional Helicopter Services (PHS)?
|
Flight |
Destination |
Type |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
$190 per person |
|
25 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
$285 per person |
|
25 minutes |
De Bortoli |
Wine Tour |
|
|
15 minutes |
TarraWarra |
Wine Tour |
|
|
90 minutes |
12 Apostles + Great Ocean Road |
Scenic Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (2 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$684 per person or $1,368 per helicopter |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (3 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$536 per person or $1,610 per helicopter |
|
60 minutes |
Mt Buller |
Snow Tour |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (4+ passengers) |
Private Charter |
$493 per helicopter or $2,052 per helicopter |
|
90 minutes |
Mt Hotham |
Snow Tour |
|
|
90 minutes |
Falls Creek |
Snow Tour |
|
|
Additional charges for departures and arrivals to Melbourne City Helipad |
$915 |
||
* Prices based on pricing information at phs.com.au and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
Professional Helicopters Services (PHS) also flies from the Melbourne City Helipad located on the Yarra River in Southbank near Crown Casino, however this departure location will attract higher prices due to the associated landing fees charged by Microflite.
Summary
Professional Helicopters Services (PHS) is the longest-standing helicopter company in Melbourne and one of the largest helicopter tour companies in Australia having operations on the Gold Coast and Northern Territory and carrying over 90,000 passengers per year.
The Helicopter Group
The Helicopter Group provides scenic flights, wine tours, golf tours, wedding transfers, private charter and flight training from their private hangar at Moorabbin Airport which includes a customer lounge and hangar viewing area.
Destinations
The Helicopter Group offers private flights to the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula along with private flights around Melbourne CBD and Port Phillip Bay.
Size & Helicopter Fleet
In operation since 2000, The Helicopter Group has more than 5 pilots and 6 helicopters including 3-passenger (Robinson R44), 4-passenger (Bell 206), 4-passenger (Airbus AS350) and 5-passenger (Bell 206 Long Ranger) helicopters.
How much to Helicopter Rides cost with The Helicopter Group?
|
Flight |
Destination |
Type |
Price |
|
20 minutes |
Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
30 minutes |
Melbourne CBD + Port Phillip Bay |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
30 minutes |
Mornington Peninsula |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
60 minutes |
Mornington Peninsula + Barwon Heads |
Helicopter Ride |
|
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (2 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$580 per person or |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (3 passengers) |
Private Charter |
$580 per person or |
|
1 hour |
Custom Flight (4+ passengers) |
Private Charter |
$525 per person or |
* Prices based on pricing information at helicoptergroup.com and approximated for comparison with other helicopter tour companies.
Summary
The Helicopter Group is the second longest-standing helicopter company in Melbourne with extensive experience and with operations in Ayers Rocks, Kings Creek and Katherine Gorge.
Ready for the experience of a lifetime!
Flying in a helicopter is one of the most amazing experiences on offer in Melbourne and is guaranteed to make everyone smile.
Whether you choose to take your partner, spoil your children or simply go on a new adventure yourself, we’re confident you’ll all have the time of your lives.
If you have any questions or want more personalised advice on choosing a flight, please get in touch on (03) 7065 1888 or concierge@rotor.one and we’d be happy to help.
3 comments
Found best price on my scenic flight. thanks.
Thanks for the article. Haven’t seen any other site break down all the helicopter companies by cost like this. Especially helpful for the Yarra Valley wine tour I’d like to go on.
A really valuable guide.. thank you! This has made is significantly easier to choose a flight and company for a surprise anniversary trip I’ve been planning for my girlfriend… I’m going to go with a trip to 12 Apostles and will be in touch with you shortly :)