City By The Sea – 20 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On

The City by the Sea helicopter tour offers a unique aerial perspective of Oahu’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose the doors-off or doors-on option, you’ll be treated to stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, and Pearl Harbor. Operated by the highly-rated Rainbow Helicopters, this 20-minute tour provides a personalized and memorable exploration of Hawaii’s natural beauty. But what unexpected delights might this aerial adventure hold?

This experience made our article of Honolulu’s 9 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours.

Key Points

• This 20-minute helicopter tour over Oahu showcases iconic landmarks like Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor.
• Passengers can choose between doors-on or doors-off flights for an open-air experience, subject to weight restrictions.
• Private tour upgrades are available for a more personalized sightseeing experience, operated by Rainbow Helicopters in Honolulu.
• The tour has a total weight limit of 280 lbs per passenger, with additional fees for those over 260 lbs.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants 24 months and younger can join for free on an adult’s lap.

Tour Overview

The 20-minute helicopter tour over Oahu offers guests an unforgettable aerial experience, showcasing the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Soar above the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, and the striking Diamond Head crater. Witness the historic Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial from above.

Passengers can choose between a doors-on or doors-off flight, providing an exhilarating, open-air adventure. For a personalized experience, guests can upgrade to a private tour.

Located at Rainbow Helicopters in Honolulu, this tour provides a breathtaking perspective of Oahu’s natural beauty and urban landscapes.

Duration and Departure

The tour lasts 20 minutes, allowing guests to soak in the stunning aerial views of Oahu. Departures are conveniently scheduled throughout the day, so visitors can choose a time that best fits their itinerary.

Departure Details
Duration	20 minutes
Departure Times	Select when booking
Weight Restrictions	Total: 280 lbs	Doors-off: 80 lbs min (R44), 100 lbs min (Astar)

Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a mid-day adventure, this helicopter tour provides flexibility to accommodate your schedule and ensure an unforgettable experience.

Weight Restrictions

While the total weight per passenger is capped at 280 lbs, specific restrictions apply for doors-off flights.

For the Robinson R44 helicopter, the minimum weight is 80 lbs, while the Airbus Astar requires a minimum of 100 lbs. Plus, guests weighing 260 lbs or more may incur additional fees.

The operator reserves the right to refuse service to those they deem intoxicated for safety reasons.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, passengers are advised to wear:

1. Jackets or sweatshirts
2. Closed-toe shoes
3. Long pants

Accessibility and Safety

Though the helicopter tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, passengers must adhere to the operator’s safety protocols.

The company reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated individuals, ensuring a safe experience for all.

For doors-off tours, it’s recommended to wear jackets, closed-toe shoes, and long pants to stay comfortable.

All passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full fare seat, while infants can sit on laps.

With these safety requirements in place, travelers can enjoy the stunning aerial views of Oahu without compromising their wellbeing during the 20-minute helicopter ride.

Dress Code and Age Restrictions

For doors-off tours, passengers should wear jackets, closed-toe shoes, and long pants to stay comfortable during the aerial experience. This attire helps protect against wind chill and exposure.

Additionally:

1. The dress code aims to ensure safety by preventing loose clothing or items from blowing away mid-flight.
2. Closed-toe shoes provide more stability and grip when boarding the helicopter.
3. Infants 24 months and younger can join the tour free of charge, but must sit on an adult’s lap.

Proper preparation helps ensure an enjoyable and secure helicopter ride over the island’s stunning scenery.

Customer Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the Helicopter Tour City By The Sea for its exceptional service and unforgettable views.

With an impressive 4.9-star rating based on 32 reviews, the tour has won over adventurous travelers. Guests highlight the attentive staff and knowledgeable pilots, who expertly guide the flights.

The thrilling doors-off experience and breathtaking aerial perspectives of Honolulu’s iconic landmarks like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor leave a lasting impression. Reviewers rave about the professional operation and the tour’s ability to exceed expectations, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Oahu.

Pricing and Booking Information

The Helicopter Tour City By the Sea starts from $305 per person, with pricing that varies based on group size.

Booking flexibility is available, as customers can reserve a spot now and pay later. The tour also offers a free cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience.

The key booking details are:

1. Pricing starts at $305 per person, with rates adjusting based on group size.
2. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure their booking.
3. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Helicopter Tour?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own camera equipment on the helicopter tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure any size or weight restrictions are met.

How Experienced Are the Helicopter Pilots?

The helicopter pilots are highly experienced, with extensive training and certifications. They undergo rigorous safety protocols and regular checks to ensure the highest standards of flight safety for all passengers.

What Is the Maximum Number of Passengers per Flight?

The maximum number of passengers per flight depends on the specific helicopter model. For the Robinson R44, the doors-off option has a minimum weight of 80 lbs per passenger, while the Airbus Astar requires a minimum of 100 lbs.

Are the Helicopters Regularly Maintained and Inspected?

The helicopters are regularly maintained and inspected to ensure passenger safety. The operator follows strict safety protocols and reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated passengers.

Can I Purchase Photos or Videos of the Tour After the Flight?

Yes, passengers can purchase photos and videos of the tour after the flight. The helicopter operator offers a variety of photo and video packages that can be purchased to capture the stunning aerial views from the tour.

The Sum Up

The "City By The Sea" 20-minute helicopter tour over Oahu offers breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks like Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, and Pearl Harbor. With the choice of doors-off or doors-on, passengers can enjoy an exhilarating open-air adventure or a more enclosed flight. Operated by Rainbow Helicopters, this tour boasts a 4.9-star rating and flexible departure times, ensuring a memorable and personalized exploration of Hawaii’s stunning beauty.