Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour promises an unforgettable aerial adventure over Hawaii’s iconic landscapes. With personalized attention from knowledgeable pilots, guests can soar above the majestic Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, capturing breathtaking views of waterfalls, craters, and the stunning coastline. This tour’s limited group size ensures a unique experience, leaving travelers eager to discover more about this exceptional way to explore the island from above.

Good To Know

• Aerial tour offering spectacular views of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa, as well as waterfalls and stunning coastlines.
• Intimate group size of up to 6 travelers for personalized attention and pilot commentary through Bose noise-canceling headsets.
• Convenient departures from Hilo, Hawaii, with transportation to and from the heliport included.
• Helicopter options include the ECO-Star with expansive viewing glass and the A-Star with bench-style seating.
• Comprehensive safety measures in place, including weight restrictions and rescheduling/refund options in case of cancellations due to weather.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Hilo Helicopter Tour offers visitors a chance to witness Hawaii’s volcanic activity, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa, from a unique aerial perspective.

Passengers will experience breathtaking waterfalls, craters, and the stunning coastline. Pilot commentary via Bose noise-canceling headsets enhances the experience, providing insights and information.

With limited group sizes of up to 6 travelers, the tour ensures personalized attention. In-flight video and photo packages are available for purchase, allowing guests to capture and treasure their memories.

This helicopter adventure delivers an unforgettable way to explore the natural wonders of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.

Tour Details and Logistics

The Hilo Helicopter Tour departs from the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters base located at 96720 in Hilo, Hawaii.

Transportation to and from the heliport is included, though parking fees of $10 USD apply. Guests have the option to book morning or afternoon tours to fit their schedules.

Check-in is required 45 minutes before departure for a safety briefing and weight check. There’s a 240 lbs weight limit per passenger, and an additional seat is needed for those exceeding this.

Both ECO-Star and A-Star helicopter types are available, offering spacious viewing areas and certified pilots.

Helicopter Specifications

Two helicopter types are available for the Hilo Helicopter Tour: the ECO-Star and the A-Star.

The ECO-Star offers spacious seating with over 60 square feet of viewing glass, providing an expansive aerial perspective. In contrast, the A-Star features bench-style seating and 50 square feet of viewing glass.

Both helicopters are maintained by Blue Hawaiian technicians and flown by certified pilots, ensuring a safe and reliable experience.

Whether you choose the ECO-Star or the A-Star, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes from the comfort of your helicopter.

Safety and Restrictions

Good weather is required for the Hilo Helicopter Tour, as tours may be canceled for poor conditions. In that case, guests will have the option to reschedule or receive a refund. Plus, there are some restrictions in place for passenger safety. Scuba diving within 24 hours prior to the tour is not permitted. Onboard, large bags, cameras, and extending selfie sticks are prohibited. While gratuity is left to individual discretion, it is not included in the tour price.

Requirement	Restriction	Allowance	Exclusion
Good weather	No scuba diving	Gratuity	Large bags
Ability to reschedule	No large cameras		Extending selfie sticks
Refund option	No extending selfie sticks

Guest Reviews and Experiences

The Hilo Helicopter Tour has garnered a strong rating of 4.6 based on 91 reviews.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable pilots, breathtaking views, and memorable experiences. Common feedback praises the excellent customer service, stunning aerial perspectives of volcanoes and landscapes, and informative commentary.

Some describe the tour as a "once in a lifetime" opportunity, while others find it slightly overpriced given certain conditions.

Though the pricing is debated, the majority of reviewers agree the Hilo Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable and awe-inspiring aerial adventure over Hawaii’s natural wonders.

Spectacular Aerial Views of Volcanoes and Landscapes

The Hilo Helicopter Tour offers passengers a bird’s-eye view of Hawaii’s dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Soaring above the Big Island, the tour showcases the towering peaks of Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes. Guests witness the ever-changing lava flows, steaming vents, and rugged coastlines.

The pilot’s knowledgeable commentary, delivered through noise-canceling headsets, enhances the experience. Waterfalls cascade over lush, verdant cliffs, while the helicopter glides past craters and crevices.

This aerial adventure provides a unique perspective on the island’s volcanic wonder and natural beauty. The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized, unforgettable journey.

Personalized Attention and Knowledgeable Pilots

While the Hilo Helicopter Tour offers spectacular aerial views, it also provides passengers with personalized attention and knowledgeable pilots. The tours are limited to only 6 travelers, ensuring each guest receives individualized care.

The experienced pilots offer in-flight commentary through Bose noise-canceling headsets, enhancing the overall experience. They share their expertise on the volcanic activity, waterfalls, and coastline below.

With safety as the top priority, the pilots follow strict protocols and maintain the well-kept helicopters. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable staff and the unforgettable bird’s-eye perspective of Hawaii’s natural wonders.

Memorable Experiences and Lifetime Opportunities

Beyond the personalized attention and knowledgeable pilots, the Hilo Helicopter Tour offers guests truly memorable experiences and even lifetime opportunities.

Soaring above Hawaii’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, guests witness the awe-inspiring power of nature. Capturing the perfect aerial shot of the Kilauea or Mauna Loa volcanoes can be a once-in-a-lifetime thrill.

The tour’s USB video and photo packages make it easy to immortalize these breathtaking views. Many guests describe the experience as "unforgettable" and a "must-do" activity during their Hawaiian vacation.

With stunning scenery and unparalleled access, the Hilo Helicopter Tour creates lifetime memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Headphones for the Audio Commentary?

Passengers can’t bring their own headphones for the tour’s audio commentary. The helicopter is equipped with Bose noise-cancelling headsets that are part of the experience, providing clear commentary from the pilot.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Helicopter Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Hilo Helicopter Tour. However, children under 2 years old can ride for free on a parent’s lap. Older children must have their own seat and meet the 240 lbs weight limit.

Can I Request a Specific Seating Arrangement on the Helicopter?

Passengers can request specific seating arrangements, but the tour operator will make the final determination based on weight distribution and safety considerations. Accommodations will be made whenever possible to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.

Do I Need to Purchase the In-Flight Video and Photo Package?

The in-flight video and photo package is optional. Guests can choose to purchase it if they’d like to have a memento of their helicopter tour, but it’s not a required purchase to participate in the tour.

Is It Possible to Combine the Helicopter Tour With Other Activities?

Yes, the Hilo Helicopter Tour can be combined with other activities. Many visitors pair the tour with visits to nearby volcanoes, waterfalls, or other sightseeing spots on the Big Island to make the most of their time.

The Sum Up

The Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Hawaii’s stunning natural wonders from the sky. With personalized attention, expert pilots, and breathtaking aerial views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the true beauty of Hawaii from a unique perspective.