Experience Gifts for Dad Melbourne

Helicopter Tours: The Best Gifts for Father's Day, Birthdays, and Christmas Alike

Here, we've put together a selection of the best helicopter tours around Melbourne to provide your dad with the ultimate experience gift that will let him discover Melbourne in a whole new way.

You Fly The Helicopter - Pilot Experience

The Pilot Experience is an exciting gift for dads who dream of flying their own chopper. This two-hour experience gives them a chance to take the controls under the guidance of a skilled instructor, no prior experience needed.

After a theory lesson on helicopter flight and controls, dads step into the pilot’s seat and get hands-on with real flying. With the 30 or 45 minute flight, they’ll fly over iconic landmarks like Melbourne CBD, Albert Park, and the MCG, enjoying a whole new view of the city.

For those choosing the longer option, there’s even a chance to learn hovering. Taking off from Essendon Airport, this private flight is both exhilarating and instructional, making it a memorable and unique gift. Plus, every minute counts toward a real pilot license, adding a meaningful touch to this one-of-a-kind adventure.

Melbourne City Helicopter Ride

A helicopter tour of Melbourne's city landscape gives dads a memorable way to see the city from a new perspective and is one of the best Father's Day gift ideas. Departing from Essendon Airport, this 20-minute private flight takes dads over iconic Melbourne landmarks, making for a unique adventure that packs Melbourne’s best sights into a single ride.

From the Flemington Racecourse, home to the Melbourne Cup, to the waters at St Kilda Beach, every spot can be seen from a bird’s-eye view.

Along the Yarra River, dads can spot the Rod Laver Arena, known for the Australian Open, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The scenic flight also circles Albert Park, where the Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place, and provides great aerial views of the Eureka Tower and Melbourne Star Ferris Wheel. Each seat comes with guaranteed window views for the best possible sightseeing, making it easy to capture photos of Melbourne’s skyline and landmarks.

This tour is a visual treat and a truly special experience gift for dads who enjoy Melbourne's cultural highlights. A private, guided experience allows dads to immerse themselves in Melbourne’s architecture and beauty without the usual crowds, making it a fantastic Father’s Day present and one of the perfect Father's Day gifts for dads who love to enjoy Melbourne’s skyline from above.

Balgownie Estate Helicopter Wine Tour

This helicopter wine tour to Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley gives dads a luxurious escape into Melbourne’s premier wine country, offering one of the best Father’s Day gifts. The scenic flight and gourmet experience in a peaceful vineyard setting make it an experience dad won’t forget.

Taking off from Melbourne, the 25-minute flight flies over the green landscapes of the Yarra Valley and the hills of the Dandenong Ranges before landing directly in front of Balgownie Estate, one of the region’s most renowned vineyards.

Dads can enjoy award-winning wines at Balgownie's Cellar Door, including their renowned Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, and enjoy a curated tasting of Sparkling and Black Label wines.

Lunch at Restaurant 1309 is equally as impressive, with signature dishes like confit ocean trout and ‘Murray’ cod, perfectly paired with Balgownie wines. The estate’s views over expansive vineyards make the culinary experience and the delicious meals even more memorable.

This tour combines scenic beauty with the best in culinary excellence that Australia has to offer, making it ideal for dads who appreciate fine wine and food in a relaxed setting. It’s a fantastic experience gift for those looking to escape the city, providing one of the most thoughtful Father’s Day gift ideas for dads who want to enjoy a memorable experience in Yarra Valley’s winemaking heritage.

Meletos and Stones of the Yarra Valley Winery Tour by Helicopter

Perfect for dads who love both good food and history, the Meletos and Stones of the Yarra Valley tour is the perfect experience gift and is one of the most unique Father’s Day gifts on our list. The adventure starts with a 25-minute scenic flight from Melbourne over the Dandenong Ranges, followed by a private landing at Meletos.

This Yarra Valley farmhouse was once a residence to stableboys and is now one of the region’s top winery lunch spots, nestled against apple orchards with views of the Great Dividing Range.

Your dad can choose a seated lunch at the Meletos Restaurant, featuring seasonal dishes and a curated wine list, or enjoy a more laid-back option in the Meletos Garden, which offers outdoor dining with a rotisserie and brewhouse. This tour also includes a stroll through the Stones of the Yarra Valley, known for its charming ambiance, celebrated wine collection, and enjoyable day in a picturesque location.

This thoughtful experience makes a unique gift, combining beautiful landscapes, history, wine, and fine food. It’s one of the great Father’s Day gift ideas for dads who appreciate scenic settings and local flavors with a relaxed, Tuscan-inspired atmosphere and quality time with loved ones.

Beers, Burgers & Gin Helicopter Pub Crawl

For the dad who loves a good pub crawl with a twist, this helicopter tour combines craft beer, gourmet burgers, and gin tasting on a 4-hour trip through the Yarra Valley and makes a perfect Father’s Day gift.

The tour begins with a flight to Watts River Brewery, where your dad can sample a paddle of five beers crafted on-site, including crisp IPAs, stouts, and pale ales. Watts River’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great start to the tour.

Next is Monroe's Burgers & Beers, where dads can savor delicious burger options like the "Captain Sanders" or even the indulgent “Homer”, a donut bun creation.

Paired with loaded fries and more local beer, this stop offers comfort food at its best and some of the most delicious meals in the area. The tour ends with a visit to the ever-popular Four Pillars Distillery for a tasting of five gin varieties, including the signature Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin.

This pub crawl is an ideal and unique gift for dads who enjoy exploring local flavors in a casual, fun atmosphere. With the thrill of a helicopter ride and the variety of tastings, it’s one of the best Father’s Day gifts that combines adventure, quality time, and an enjoyable day with friends.

Couples Exclusive: Birthday & Anniversary Helicopter Experience to Hubert Estate

For a dad looking to celebrate a special occasion with his partner, this private tour to Hubert Estate is a unique Father’s Day gift that brings romance and elegance.

The experience includes a scenic flight from Melbourne over the city skyline and Yarra Valley, making it one of the best Father's Day gift ideas for quality time with a loved one. With a private helipad landing, your dad and his partner can step directly into this beautiful location.

At St Hubert’s Cellar Door, your dad can go on a guided tasting of eight premium wines, such as the Stag Pinot Noir and St Hubert’s Chardonnay, paired with a cheese platter.

He’ll then enjoy a gourmet lunch at Quarter’s Restaurant, where dishes from the 'Hungry Hungry Hubert' menu include wood-fired pizzas and locally sourced meat and seafood, served with a carafe of wine. After lunch, a tour of the estate’s Indigenous Art Gallery brings the tour to a close with a bit of history and art.

This tour is an amazing Father’s Day present for dads, especially those celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary. It’s a memorable experience, combining fine wine, delicious meals, and a touch of art, making it a day worth remembering in the Yarra Valley.

Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Day Spa Package by Helicopter

This helicopter tour to the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs combines a natural setting with ultimate comfort, making it a perfect Father’s Day gift for dads who need relaxation. The 35-minute flight from Melbourne takes your dad along the coast, passing Brighton Beach Boxes and Mount Eliza, with views of the Mornington Peninsula’s beaches and cliffs.

Arriving at Peppers Moonah Links Resort, your dad will be escorted by golf buggy to the Peninsula Hot Springs, where a three-hour “Dine and Bathe” package awaits.

The Spa Dreaming Centre features thermal pools, barrel baths, and saunas, providing an adults-only area designed for peaceful relaxation with outdoor views.

Lunch is served as part of the package, featuring seasonal dishes crafted with local ingredients that complement the spa experience. This thoughtful and relaxing Father’s Day gift is perfect for dads who need some quality time to recharge and feel extra special.

12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour

The 12 Apostles helicopter tour offers breathtaking views of Australia’s Great Ocean Road in just a day, making it one of the best Father's Day gifts for adventurous dads.

Departing from Melbourne, the 70-minute flight over the coastline features views of these awe-inspiring rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and other natural marvels like London Bridge and The Grotto. This tour is ideal for dads who enjoy Melbourne’s landscape from above and want to experience the extensive range of natural wonders.

After landing at the 12 Apostles Helipad, dads can spend two hours exploring on foot, either walking to Castle Rock lookout or down the Gibson Steps to the sparkling beach below. This time allows dads to fully appreciate the natural wonder of the coastline and take in the history of these rock formations carved by centuries of ocean waves.

A stop at a local winery on the return flight is optional, adding another touch of luxury and adventure to the trip. This tour is a truly epic and memorable experience gift, ideal for dads who appreciate the natural beauty of Australia’s coastal landscapes and want a thoughtful gift idea for Father’s Day.

Why Gift Your Dad a Helicopter Tour?

If you're wondering why a helicopter tour is better than a pair of socks or some boring cooking classes, well, there are plenty of reasons!

Making Memories

A helicopter tour is a memory-maker. Whether flying over Melbourne’s skyline or the 12 Apostles, each tour provides your dad with a chance to create unforgettable moments. The thrill of the experience and the stunning sights make for stories to share for years to come, real memories that he'll cherish forever.

Spending Quality Time with Each Other

Helicopter tours are definitely a unique way to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether it's a winery tour in Yarra Valley or a scenic route to Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs, these experiences bring people closer together, allowing some great bonding time.

Better Than Any Physical Gift

Unlike traditional gifts, a helicopter tour is all about a lasting impression that doesn’t gather dust on a bookshelf. Flying over cityscapes, vineyards, or coastal areas creates a memorable experience that feels far more valuable than any physical item, not to mention the joy of getting to land at a renowned winery, brewery, or restaurant.

Great Photo Opportunities

Each helicopter tour is packed with awesome photo opportunities. if your dad is a photography guru, the vantage point offered by one of these helicopter tours just can't be beat in terms of snapping that special shot.

A New and Unique Experience

A helicopter tour is definitely nothing ordinary, but instead provides an experience unlike any other. For those dads who have seemingly done it all, a tour like this, whether it’s Melbourne City or the Great Ocean Road, provides the excitement of something fresh and exhilarating, adding a new experience to his list.

A Combination of Thrill, Luxury, and Relaxation

The tours combine thrill and relaxation, making them ideal for any and every dad. The excitement of the flight, the luxury of vineyards or gourmet dining, and the peaceful ambiance of destinations like the Peninsula Hot Springs create a balanced experience that’s both exciting and soothing.

Get a Rotor One Gift Voucher Today

To make sure that your dad can relax, give him a Rotor One gift voucher, so e can go on his helicopter experience whenever he sees fit.