Thousand Islands: Helicopter Tour With Cider Mill and Lunch

Soaring above the captivating Thousand Islands, a helicopter tour offers a unique perspective on this picturesque region. Following the aerial adventure, guests can discover the art of cider-making at a local mill. Here, they’ll savor artisanal ciders paired with a light lunch featuring the famous Thousand Islands Dressing – a culinary treasure of the area. This unforgettable experience promises to delight the senses and leave visitors eager to explore more.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love these 3 Helicopter Flights & Tours In Gananoque.

Contents show

Key Points

Set out on a 30-minute helicopter tour showcasing the Thousand Islands region, including Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the Thousand Islands Bridge.
Visit the BUSL Cider mill for guided tastings of artisanal ciders and learn about the cider-making process from local experts.
Enjoy a lunch featuring the renowned Thousand Islands Dressing, a creamy and tangy condiment representing the region’s culinary heritage.
The tour is limited to 3 participants for a personalized experience, with a maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs per seat.
The tour has an overall rating of 5/5 based on 15 reviews, and weather conditions may affect the flight availability and schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Thousand Islands by Helicopter

What better way to experience the stunning beauty of the Thousand Islands region than from the air?

The helicopter tour provides a unique vantage point, offering panoramic views of the islands, castles, and historic landmarks. Soar over Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the iconic Thousand Islands Bridge, getting a bird’s-eye perspective of this picturesque landscape.

A bird’s-eye view of the Thousand Islands, soaring over castles and the iconic bridge, offering panoramic perspectives of this picturesque landscape.

The 30-minute flight delivers an exhilarating experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of this captivating region.

This aerial adventure sets the stage for the rest of the tour, which includes a visit to a local cider mill and a delicious lunch.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Gananoque

Discovering the Cider Mill Experience

After the exhilarating helicopter ride over the Thousand Islands, the tour takes guests to BUSL Cider, the region’s newest cider mill.

Here, visitors can enjoy guided tastings of the mill’s artisanal ciders. They’ll learn about the cider-making process from a local expert and sample a variety of flavors, from classic apple to unique seasonal blends.

Lunch featuring the area’s renowned Thousand Islands Dressing is also included, providing a delicious complement to the cider experience.

This immersive stop offers a chance to savor the flavors of the region and deepen one’s appreciation for local food and drink.

Savoring the Flavors of Thousand Islands Dressing

The Thousand Islands Dressing is a defining feature of the region’s culinary landscape. This creamy, tangy condiment is a blend of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a secret array of spices that complement the fresh local ingredients.

Drizzled over the light lunch served at the cider mill, the dressing adds a burst of flavor that delights the palate. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the history and preparation of this iconic regional staple from the knowledgeable cider mill staff.

The Thousand Islands Dressing perfectly encapsulates the area’s unique culinary heritage and makes for a memorable tasting experience.

Meeting the Local Cider Guide

As guests arrive at the BUSL Cider mill, they’re greeted by the enthusiastic cider guide, ready to share the secrets of this local craft.

The guide provides an informative tour, explaining the cider-making process from start to finish. Visitors learn about the selection of apples, the pressing and fermentation, and the aging in oak barrels.

The guide encourages guests to sample the various cider varieties, each with its own distinct flavor profile.

The guide invites visitors to savor the diverse cider offerings, each boasting its own unique flavor complexity.

Throughout the tour, the guide’s passion for the craft shines through, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the art of cider production.

More Great Tours Nearby

Navigating to the Gananoque Heliport

Visitors can reach the Gananoque Heliport in around 20 minutes by driving from Kingston, located off exit 645 from Highway 401.

Ample free parking is available at the heliport. It’s recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and weigh-in.

The tour group is limited to 3 participants, so it’s best to arrive punctually.

Once at the heliport, guests will meet their pilot and guide, who’ll provide a safety briefing and instructions before taking off on the 30-minute helicopter journey over the stunning Thousand Islands region.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Gananoque

Understanding the Weight Restrictions and Child Policy

Before booking the tour, it’s important to be aware of the weight restrictions and child policy.

The helicopter has a maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs (125 kg) per seat. All passengers will be weighed during check-in.

For children:

Children aged 2 and above must sit in their own seat.
Children under 2 years old must sit on a parent’s lap.
There are no discounted rates for children.
Infants may need to be held by a parent during the flight.
Passengers should notify the operator of any special needs or accommodations required.

Reviewing the Customer Feedback

The Thousand Islands helicopter tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past customers. With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 15 reviews, the experience has left a lasting impression on adventurous travelers.

| Reviewer | Feedback |

|———-|———–|

| Edward (UK) | "Amazing experience! Views and cider were outstanding." |

| Terrence (Canada) | "Outstanding tour, staff, and pilot." |

| Jeremy (USA) | "Great adventure for my son and me; cider mill was enjoyable." |

Customers consistently praise the scenic aerial views, cider tastings, and overall organization of the tour. This feedback suggests the Thousand Islands helicopter excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking a unique and memorable experience.

Preparing for Weather Conditions and Cancellation Policies

Weather conditions play a crucial role in the Thousand Islands helicopter tour. The flights are subject to availability and favorable weather. Cancellations due to poor weather will offer alternative dates or a full refund.

Passengers should be prepared for the following:

Flexible schedule: Tour may be rescheduled on short notice due to unexpected weather changes.
Dress appropriately: Bring warm, wind-resistant clothing for the aerial journey.
Travel insurance: Consider purchasing trip insurance to protect against unexpected weather-related cancellations.
Communication: Stay in touch with the tour operator for any weather-related updates or changes.
Backup plan: Have an alternative activity in mind in case the tour is canceled.

Ask Away

Can I Request a Specific Helicopter Seat Assignment?

Passengers can’t request specific helicopter seat assignments. Seating is determined by weight and balance requirements to ensure safe flight operations. The tour operator will assign seats based on these factors at check-in.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator does not offer an option to extend the tour duration. The 2.5-hour experience, including the 30-minute helicopter ride, is the standard package. Passengers aren’t able to customize the tour length, but they can enjoy the full itinerary within the set timeframe.

Do You Provide Any Dietary Accommodations for the Lunch?

Yes, the tour provider offers dietary accommodations for the lunch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request at the time of booking. Guests should notify the company of any dietary restrictions to ensure their needs are met.

Is There an Option to Purchase Cider Bottles/Merchandise On-Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase cider bottles and merchandise from the BUSL Cider mill during the tour. The on-site shop offers a variety of cider flavors and related products for guests to enjoy or take home as souvenirs.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Helicopter?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the helicopter tour. However, it’s recommended to use compact, handheld devices to avoid interfering with the aircraft’s operation or the enjoyment of other passengers.

Final Words

The Thousand Islands helicopter tour and cider mill experience offers a unique opportunity to admire the region’s natural beauty from above and savor its local culinary heritage. With personalized guidance, guests can enjoy a thrilling aerial adventure, followed by a delightful tasting and lunch, creating an unforgettable day exploring the Thousand Islands.