Melbourne: Private City Skyline and Bay Helicopter Ride - What Can You Expect During the Flight?

13 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Melbourne (With Prices)

Discover the best helicopter tours in Melbourne, from city skyline flights to winery lunches at Yarra Valley, and breathtaking trips to the 12 Apostles.

Melbourne’s scenic beauty and vibrant neighborhoods make it a perfect place for helicopter flights and tours. Whether you’re after sweeping city views, a romantic winery lunch, or a jaw-dropping flyover of the 12 Apostles, Melbourne delivers memorable aerial experiences. We’re especially fond of the private tours that let you soak in the sights without the crowds, such as the Melbourne: Private City & Beaches Helicopter Ride. This one-hour flight offers a personalized way to admire Melbourne’s skyline and Port Phillip Bay, with the chance to settle into a guaranteed window seat for uninterrupted views.

If panoramic vistas are your goal, the Melbourne: Private City Skyline and Bay Helicopter Ride provides an immersive 20-minute flight above the city, Yarra River, and landmarks like the Melbourne Cricket Ground. For those wanting a touch of luxury and local flavor, the Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter combines aerial views with a gourmet 2-course meal at Balgownie Estate, perfect for wine lovers seeking a seamless blend of adventure and indulgence.

Below, we explore the full range of helicopter experiences in Melbourne, from scenic city tours to extended trips along the Great Ocean Road — each offering a different way to see Victoria from above.

1. Melbourne: Private City & Beaches Helicopter Ride

Melbourne: Private City & Beaches Helicopter Ride

At number 1 on our list, this one-hour private helicopter ride provides an intimate way to see Melbourne’s highlights, including the CBD, St Kilda, Albert Park, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Starting from Rotor One – Melbourne Helicopter Rides, this tour offers an experience where you’re guaranteed a window seat and the chance to take social media-worthy photos in front of the helicopter. The flight includes views of Port Phillip Bay, the Yarra River, and top spots like the MCG and Albert Park.

Guests consistently praise the smooth takeoff and landing, along with the chance to share the experience with friends. The private setting makes it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized adventure. The 20-minute flight may seem brief, but it’s packed with iconic sights and plenty of photo opportunities. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children over 3, making it a versatile choice for many travelers.

Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a personalized, high-quality aerial tour of Melbourne’s skyline and beaches in just an hour.

2. Melbourne: Private City Skyline and Bay Helicopter Ride

Melbourne: Private City Skyline and Bay Helicopter Ride

This 20-minute scenic helicopter experience offers a fast but thorough overview of Melbourne’s cityscape, the Yarra River, and Port Phillip Bay. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see Melbourne from above with the best possible views. You’ll fly over landmarks such as Flemington Racecourse and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, making it perfect for sports fans or first-time visitors.

Guests love how this tour captures the essence of Melbourne’s urban charm, with enough time for stunning photos and a sense of being on top of the city. The private nature of the ride ensures you won’t be among a crowd, and the highlight is the seamless experience of soaring over both city and bay.

Bottom line: An excellent quick snapshot of Melbourne’s iconic sights, ideal for busy travelers wanting a taste of aerial sightseeing.

3. Melbourne: Private Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter

Melbourne: Private Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter

For around $527 per person, this luxurious four-hour experience combines a scenic helicopter flight from Essendon Fields with a 2-course lunch and wine tasting at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Start with a 25-minute helicopter ride, offering breathtaking views of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. Once there, you’ll indulge in a gourmet meal paired with award-winning wines, making it a perfect outing for foodies and wine lovers.

What makes this tour special is the combination of aerial adventure and gourmet cuisine. Guests praise the scenic flight and the chance to taste premium wines in a relaxed setting. It’s a bit on the costly side but offers excellent value for a full-day luxury experience. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or for those who want a memorable food and wine holiday experience.

Bottom line: A top choice for travelers looking to combine scenic flights with a gourmet wine tasting in Victoria’s acclaimed Yarra Valley.

4. Helicopter Winery Lunch to Hubert Estate in Yarra Valley

Helicopter Winery Lunch to Hubert Estate in Yarra Valley

Priceing at $859.01 per person, this all-inclusive luxury tour elevates the Yarra Valley experience with a scenic helicopter flight to Hubert Estate. You’ll enjoy breathtaking aerial views en route, then step into an architecturally stunning winery to taste some of the finest cold-climate wines. The estate’s culinary offerings complement your tasting sessions, making this a day of indulgence.

Guests love the luxury of this experience, noting it’s a perfect blend of scenic beauty, fine wine, and gourmet food. The tour is best suited for travelers seeking exclusivity and a high-end experience. The only potential drawback is the cost, but many find it worth the splurge for the memorable day of luxury.

Bottom line: This is a superb choice for those wanting a top-tier, all-inclusive wine and dine experience with spectacular views.

5. Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight)

Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight)

Rated 5/5 with 10 reviews, this private VIP helicopter tour takes you over the iconic 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road. The flight lasts about an hour, with the option to land at the helipad nearby for up to 2 hours of exploration. Highlights include flying over Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the Grotto, giving you ample time to soak in the rugged coastline.

Guests rave about the professional pilots and the breathtaking scenery. The private nature of the flight allows for a personalized experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions or for those who want to avoid crowded tours. The inclusion of a ground stop at the Apostles allows for a longer, more immersive experience.

Bottom line: An exceptional, private way to see the 12 Apostles, combining flight with a few hours to explore this iconic landmark.

6. Melbourne: Helicopter Tour to 12 Apostles & Great Ocean Rd

This 4-hour adventure tour explores Victoria’s stunning coastlines, including the Great Ocean Road and the famous 12 Apostles. Starting at Eco Flight Helicopter Tours, you’ll enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour helicopter flight with stops at the visitor center and lookout points. The itinerary includes aerial views of Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the Bay of Martyrs, offering a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Guests appreciate the combination of aerial views and on-ground exploration. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a full-day experience of Victoria’s most scenic spots with the convenience of a helicopter ride. The experienced pilots and well-planned itinerary make this a top choice.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a deep dive into the coast’s natural wonders with plenty of photo opportunities.

7. Melbourne: City and Bayside Helicopter Tour

Melbourne: City and Bayside Helicopter Tour

Rated 4.6/5 from 15 reviews, this 20-minute city and bayside tour offers a great introduction to Melbourne’s highlights from the air. You’ll pass over Brighton Beach, Albert Park Lake, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with excellent views of Luna Park and the Royal Melbourne Golf Course.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but rundown of Melbourne’s city and coast. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager for aerial photos of Melbourne’s iconic sites and beaches.

Bottom line: A compact, affordable option that covers many highlights in a short time, making it great for a quick sightseeing fix.

8. Melbourne: Brighton Beach & Ricketts Point Helicopter Flight

Melbourne: Brighton Beach & Ricketts Point Helicopter Flight

Rated 4.8/5 from 6 reviews, this 12-minute flight is an easy add-on for those wanting a quick scenic view of Port Phillip Bay. It focuses on the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary and nearby landmarks, offering a short but scenic experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a brief, scenic overview of Melbourne’s coast without a big time commitment. It’s an excellent way to combine with other outdoor activities or as a first flight experience.

Bottom line: Short, sweet, and scenic — perfect for a quick coastal overview.

9. Melbourne: Private Helicopter Flight to the 12 Apostles

Melbourne: Private Helicopter Flight to the 12 Apostles

Rated 5/5 by three reviews, this private, full-day tour is designed for those wanting an exclusive experience. It includes a helicopter flight with stops to explore Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and other key landmarks with free time to walk down the Gibson Steps.

The tour emphasizes personalized service and scenic views of the coast’s most stunning formations. It’s suited for travelers with a full day to spare who want to combine aerial views with on-the-ground exploration.

Bottom line: An ideal option for adventurers seeking a private, immersive experience of the Twelve Apostles and surrounding sights.

10. Melbourne: Private Extended Skyline & Bay Helicopter Ride

Melbourne: Private Extended Skyline & Bay Helicopter Ride

Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this 30-minute tour is an excellent choice for those who want more time in the air. It expands beyond the city to include the Brighton Beach boxes, offering a broader view of Melbourne’s coast and skyline.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a longer, more detailed sightseeing experience without leaving Melbourne’s vicinity. The tour guarantees a window seat for uninterrupted views and makes for a fantastic memory.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting more extensive aerial views in a private setting.

11. Melbourne: Helicopter, Wine Tasting & Lunch in Yarra Valley

Melbourne: Helicopter, Wine Tasting & Lunch in Yarra Valley

Rated 5/5 with just one review, this full-day trip offers a scenic helicopter flight, a premium wine tasting, and a gourmet lunch at Hubert Estate. The 25-minute helicopter ride is followed by a 2-hour tasting and meal, making it perfect for wine lovers.

Guests enjoy the combination of aerial views, fine wines, and a luxurious meal. The tour is well-suited for those looking for a relaxed, indulgent day in the Yarra Valley, with the convenience of private transport from Melbourne.

Bottom line: A top choice for wine enthusiasts wanting a scenic, gourmet experience with helicopter views.

12. Melbourne: Brighton Beach Boxes Private Helicopter Flight

Melbourne: Brighton Beach Boxes Private Helicopter Flight

This 12-minute private flight offers an intimate view of the Brighton Beach Boxes and the coastline. Up to five passengers can enjoy this tailored experience, ideal for small groups or couples.

While brief, it’s a great way to get a personalized coastal perspective without a long commitment. It pairs well with other Melbourne activities or as a romantic highlight.

Bottom line: A short, private coastal flight perfect for a quick, personalized experience.

13. Melbourne: City Helicopter Tour with up to 5 Passengers

Melbourne: City Helicopter Tour with up to 5 Passengers

This 20-minute private helicopter ride offers a flexible alternative for groups up to five. It covers Melbourne’s skyline, Brighton Beach, Albert Park Lake, and landmarks like Luna Park and the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

It’s an excellent option for those who want a private tour with ample space to share the experience with friends or family. The flexible scheduling and private setting make it a popular choice for celebrating special occasions or capturing family memories.

Bottom line: A versatile, private option for groups wanting to see Melbourne from the air in comfort.

How to Choose Your Melbourne Helicopter Tour

When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a quick overview, the City and Bayside Tour or the Brighton Beach & Ricketts Point Flight are perfect. For a full-day indulgence, the Yarra Valley winery experiences or private 12 Apostles tours stand out.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like the 12 Apostles VIP tour, as these fill quickly during peak seasons. Also, check if your tour offers private flights versus group experiences to match your comfort level.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne offers a rich selection of helicopter tours, from quick snapshots of the city to immersive excursions along the Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley. For a romantic experience, the Yarra Valley winery lunch or Hubert Estate tour can be perfect. If you’re looking for a bucket-list adventure, the 12 Apostles VIP tour or the full-day Great Ocean Road experience will leave you breathless.

No matter your choice, booking early ensures you secure your preferred time — especially during peak season. Now, it’s time to pick your adventure and get ready to see Melbourne from a perspective only a helicopter can provide.