Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour with VIP Skywalk and Boat Ride

Discover the Ultimate Grand Canyon Experience with Helicopter, Skywalk, and Boat Ride

The Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour with VIP Skywalk and Boat Ride offers a full-day adventure from Las Vegas for those eager to see the canyon from multiple perspectives. Priced at $839.00 per person, this tour provides a 7-hour journey that combines aerial views, ground-level exploration, and Colorado River cruising. The tour is popular enough that it’s typically booked 63 days in advance, reflecting its strong appeal among travelers seeking a premium experience.

This tour starts with a scenic helicopter flight from Boulder City, offering sweeping views of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees. It then lands on the Grand Canyon floor, where a pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River awaits. The most distinctive feature is the VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck that hovers above the canyon, providing unparalleled views of the sandstone walls below. The package also includes a souvenir Skywalk photo and coach transfers, making it a well-rounded and convenient choice for travelers looking for an all-in-one Grand Canyon experience.

While the $839 price might seem high, the tour’s inclusion of multiple activities and VIP elements makes it a comprehensive package. It’s especially suitable for those who want to maximize their time and see the canyon from air, land, and water in one day. However, potential guests should consider the physical requirements, such as the weight limit of 300 lbs per passenger and the need for comfortable shoes for ground exploration.

Key Points

• Inclusive multi-activity tour combining helicopter, boat, and Skywalk experiences
• Price of $839 per person, booked on average 63 days in advance
• Duration of approximately 7 hours, with several scenic stops
• Pickup and coach transfer included (if booked with hotel transfers)
• VIP Skywalk access featuring a glass-bottom deck with photos included
• Landing on the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado River

Departure Details from Boulder City

The tour begins at 1265 Airport Rd, Boulder City, NV, with hotel pickup available if the “Tour with Hotel Transfers” option is chosen. Participants are advised to arrive 45 minutes before their scheduled flight for check-in and safety instructions. The departure location is close to public transportation and offers free parking for self-driving guests.

Helicopter Flight with Views of Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

The journey kicks off with a scenic helicopter flight, providing an aerial perspective of Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. The large panoramic windows of the EC-130 Eco-Star or Eurocopter AS350 helicopters allow for breathtaking views of these engineering marvels and the surrounding desert landscape. Travelers can expect to see the deep blue waters of Lake Mead and the desert terrain, creating a striking visual contrast.

The helicopter ride typically lasts around 70 minutes, with up to 7 passengers per helicopter, ensuring a relatively intimate experience with personalized attention from the pilot. Many reviews highlight the expertise of pilots like Jeremy and David, whose skill and helpful explanations enhance the experience. Passengers are encouraged to bring cameras and sunglasses to capture the vistas and shield from the sun.

Land on the Canyon Floor for a Colorado River Pontoon Boat Ride

After the helicopter flight, the tour descends to the canyon floor where a pontoon boat cruise awaits on the Colorado River. This scenic ride offers a peaceful break from the aerial views, allowing travelers to glide between towering canyon walls. The boat ride provides a unique vantage point of the canyon’s natural beauty, with time to take photographs and absorb the tranquility of this deep, winding river.

This stop typically lasts 45 minutes, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and appreciate the grandeur of the canyon from ground level. The boat cruise complements the aerial views perfectly, offering a balanced perspective of the canyon’s scale and geological features.

Walking on the VIP Skywalk Glass Bridge

The Skywalk at Grand Canyon West is a standout feature of this tour. With VIP access, visitors walk on a glass-bottom deck that extends nearly a mile over the canyon’s edge. Standing on the Skywalk, you’ll look straight down to the canyon floor, which is about a mile below. The included souvenir photo captures this exhilarating moment.

The 45-minute Skywalk visit is designed for comfort and convenience. Although no backpacks or handbags are allowed onboard, complimentary storage lockers are available. The VIP access often means shorter lines and a more relaxed experience compared to regular visitors, as some reviews mention skipping the wait and the ability to enjoy the views with less crowding.

Additional Amenities and Transportation

The tour includes a Grand Canyon West Express Shuttle from Boulder City, simplifying transportation logistics. When booked with hotel transfers, pickup and drop-off are provided, adding to the overall convenience. Most travelers find this comprehensive, as it avoids the hassle of arranging independent transportation.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, considering the walking involved at the Skywalk and canyon viewpoints. It is also essential to bring valid government-issued ID for all passengers aged 18 and above. Weight restrictions apply: passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an extra seat, payable directly on the day of the tour.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour operates most days, but weather can influence schedules. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered. Guests should arrive at least 45 minutes before their scheduled departure time. Cameras and sunglasses are highly recommended, especially for capturing the spectacular views from the helicopter and Skywalk.

Given the 7-hour duration, travelers should plan accordingly, bringing snacks or water for comfort. However, luggage and backpacks are not permitted on the helicopter or Skywalk, with lockers provided for storage. The tour is most suitable for physically able participants, as walking and standing are involved, but the experience is generally accessible to most who can handle the outdoor environment.

The Experience of Guides and Pilots

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides and pilots. Guides like Jeremy, David, Ryan, Cole, Alex, and Jimmy are highlighted for their professionalism, humor, and ability to explain the sights clearly. Their expertise enhances the overall journey, turning what could be a simple sightseeing trip into an engaging and educational outing.

Pricing and Value for Money

The $839 cost covers nearly all aspects of the experience: helicopter flights, canyon floor landing, pontoon boat cruise, VIP Skywalk admission, souvenir photos, and transportation. While on the higher end, the inclusion of multiple activities and VIP access offers good value for those seeking a comprehensive tour.

Some travelers note that upgrades, such as front seat reservations, improve the experience, providing better views and a more comfortable journey. The tour’s popularity and advanced booking requirement reflect its desirability among visitors to Las Vegas wanting a full-day, multi-faceted Grand Canyon adventure.

Limitations and Potential Drawbacks

A few reviews mention issues such as hurry-up and wait, with some guests feeling rushed through certain stops like the Skywalk. Others experienced miscommunication about pick-up times or weather-related cancellations. The $839 price may be a barrier for some, especially when considering additional costs like extra seats for heavier passengers.

Tour cancellations have been reported, with some guests experiencing a last-minute cancellation without immediate rebooking options. These instances are rare but worth noting when planning your trip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This all-in-one package appeals to travelers who want to see the Grand Canyon from multiple perspectives without the hassle of coordinating separate activities. It suits those who enjoy aerial views, ground-level exploration, and river cruises, all in a single day. The VIP Skywalk access makes it particularly attractive for visitors seeking a more streamlined experience.

This tour benefits those who value guided assistance, photos, and comfort, while physically capable travelers can enjoy the full range of activities comfortably. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to the Grand Canyon, especially those with a sense of adventure and curiosity for engineering marvels and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts on the Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive and high-quality experience of the Grand Canyon, combining aerial panoramas, ground-level river views, and VIP access to the iconic Skywalk. The professional guides and pilots ensure a smooth and engaging journey, leaving travelers with lasting memories.

While the price might seem steep, the inclusion of multiple activities and VIP features justify the investment for many. Be aware of the weight restrictions and weather considerations, and book well in advance to secure your preferred date. This tour is perfect for those eager to see the canyon’s grandeur from every angle and enjoy a luxurious, well-organized day trip from Las Vegas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select the “Tour with Hotel Transfers” option.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours.

How early should I arrive at the departure point?
Guests should arrive 45 minutes before the scheduled flight time for check-in.

What are the weight restrictions for passengers?
Passengers weighing over 300 lbs must purchase an extra seat, payable on the day of the tour.

Can children participate in this tour?
Children under 2 years old fly free as lap children, but all guests aged 18 and older need valid ID.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the helicopter flight, canyon floor landing, pontoon boat ride, VIP Skywalk admission, souvenir photo, and coach transfers if booked with hotel pickup.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring cameras, sunglasses, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather can cause cancellations, but rescheduling or full refunds are available.

Are backpacks allowed on the Skywalk?
No, backpacks are not permitted in the Skywalk area. Storage lockers are available.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of aerial, ground, and water activities plus VIP Skywalk access creates a complete Grand Canyon experience in just one day.