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Discover the Unique Combo of Aerial Views and Craft Beer in Gananoque
The Gananoque Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Priced at $305 per person for a 1.5-hour experience, this tour starts in Gananoque, New York State, and takes you over the spectacular 1000 Islands archipelago. The tour includes a 30-minute helicopter flight, a visit to ARBRU Craft Brewery, and a delicious pizza lunch paired with a flight of craft beers.
This experience is designed for those who enjoy breathtaking scenery, informative guides, and good food and drinks. It suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and local flavor, with the added bonus that flights are weather-dependent and require a minimum of 2 participants. The tour’s small group size of up to 6 people ensures a more personal experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Stunning aerial views of the 1000 Islands, Boldt Castle, and Singer Castle
- Includes a scenic helicopter flight of 30 minutes
- Visit to Canada’s first solar craft brewery, ARBRU, with a sample flight of beers
- Enjoy a wood-fired pizza (pepperoni, meat lovers, or margarita) served after the flight
- Walk through hops fields used in brewing at ARBRU
- Potential for spotting shipwrecks resting beneath the St. Lawrence River
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The Helicopter Experience Over the 1000 Islands
The tour begins at the 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours office near exit 645 on highway 401 in Gananoque. After check-in and safety briefing, participants strap into the helicopter, where the pilot provides clear communication through headsets. The 30-minute flight provides panoramic views of the Hundred Islands, Boldt Castle, and the Singer Castle, along with the Millionaire’s Row and the 1000 Islands International Bridge.
During the flight, passengers gain a bird’s-eye perspective of the shipwrecks resting at the river’s bottom, which adds a sense of mystery and history to the scenery. The pilot shares insights into the area’s landmarks, making the flight both visually stunning and educational.
Landing at ARBRU Craft Brewery in Gananoque
After the helicopter flight, the tour transitions smoothly to a visit at ARBRU Craft Brewery, which holds the distinction of being Canada’s first solar-powered craft brewery. Travelers walk along a path through hops fields—these are the ingredients used for the brewery’s beers—adding a charming farm-to-glass element.
At ARBRU, participants sample a flight of craft beers, experiencing the flavors crafted at this innovative, off-grid brewery. Each person also receives a personal-sized, wood-fired pizza—options include pepperoni, meat lovers, or margarita—complemented by the drinks. This relaxed lunch allows for conversation, tasting, and appreciation of local craftsmanship.
Practicalities: Meeting Point and Group Size
The tour departs from the front desk of ‘1000 Islands Helicopter Tours’ located off exit 645 on highway 401. Travelers coming from the west should turn left off the exit, while those from the east turn right. The large helicopter sign makes the meeting point easy to find.
The tour is limited to a small group of up to 6 participants, which enhances the overall experience by providing more personalized attention. Weather conditions can influence the flight schedule, emphasizing the importance of flexibility.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Sets This Tour Apart: Views and Local Flavor
The combination of a helicopter ride over the 1000 Islands with a visit to a pioneering craft brewery offers a distinctive experience. The scenic flight grants access to views typically reserved for pilots or boaters, including Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the shipwrecks at the river’s bottom.
The brewery visit adds a layer of local culture, showcasing Canada’s first solar brewery, with the hop fields providing a tangible connection to the brewing process. The pizza lunch complements the experience, making it a well-rounded outing.
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The Experience of the Pilot and Guides
Many reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly pilots, with one mentioning pilot Quinn who shares interesting facts about the area’s landmarks. The guides maintain clear communication, ensuring safety and enjoyment throughout the flight. The small group setting allows for a more engaging commentary and personalized service.
Timing and Pacing: Balancing Action with Relaxation
The 1.5-hour duration, including the 30-minute flight and brewery visit, strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure. The lunch at ARBRU takes place after the flight, giving travelers time to relax and chat about the sights. The morning and afternoon slots provide flexibility for travelers’ schedules.
Accessibility and Physical Considerations
Participants should be aware of the maximum weight limit of 275 pounds per person. The tour requires at least 2 participants to proceed, and weather conditions can affect the flight schedule. The small group size and straightforward logistics make this tour suitable for most travelers, though mobility considerations are not specified.
Comparing This Tour to Similar Offerings
This experience stands out because it combines aerial sightseeing with a visit to a solar-powered brewery, creating an engaging mix of sightseeing and local craftsmanship. Other options include scenic helicopter tours or cruises, but this tour’s integrated lunch and beer tasting make it particularly appealing for those wanting a more immersive outing.
Final Thoughts on the Gananoque Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop
This tour offers exceptional value for $305, blending breathtaking views with local flavor. The small group size and personalized experience are major pluses, along with the high praise for guides and pilots. The inclusion of a craft brewery visit and pizza lunch makes it an enjoyable and memorable day.
While weather can impact the schedule, the overall experience emphasizes spectacular scenery and relaxing moments at the brewery. Ideal for adventure seekers and culinary enthusiasts, this tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse into the magnificence of the 1000 Islands and the craft beer culture of the region.
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Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While the tour is accessible to most, specific details about mobility are not provided. The experience involves a helicopter ride and walking at the brewery, so travelers should consider their comfort levels.
What should I bring with me?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, especially if planning to walk through hops fields. No specific items are listed as necessary.
Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, reservations can be made with a “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing flexibility and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the flight?
Flights are weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled with full refund options.
Is there an age limit for this experience?
Age restrictions are not specified, but weight limits and safety considerations apply. It’s best to confirm with the provider if traveling with children.
How long do I have at the brewery?
The tour includes a visit to ARBRU with a craft beer flight and pizza lunch, tailored to fit within the overall 1.5-hour experience.