Hunter Valley Hot Air Balloon Flights

Overview

Imagine........ drifting above the morning mist, watching as the countryside opens up in front of you. Kangaroos bounding in packs below, row upon row of vines carrying the fruits of next years vintage, open countryside, farms with horses and cattle crazing.

Enjoy the vineyards and farms nestled in between the rolling hills, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The Hunter Valley is the perfect destination to enjoy a weekend getaway.

Located less than 2 hours drive from the heart of Sydney and 1 hour from the Central Coast, the Hunter Valley is the regions playground.

A place to meet and have great times with your friends and lovers. A huge range of experiences are at hand but the ideal activity to compliment your weekend getaway is a hot air balloon flight.

Balloon Flight Itinerary

What follows is a brief description of the mornings itinerary.

CHECK IN - All passengers are required to check in the last work day prior to their flight to ensure they know the correct meeting time and location. The meeting time for your flight will change depending on what time the sun rises. Generally in the warmer months we meet at 5am and during the cooler months 6am.

MORNING WEATHER CHECK - 90 minutes prior to the meeting time a quick telephone call will confirm that the weather is suitable to meet.

MEETING POINT - Once at the meeting site passengers will be required to complete an 'Assumption or Risk & Release of Liability'. It is also the last opportunity to use the rest rooms till our return. Whilst all this is happening the Pilot will be deciding on the appropriate launch location depending upon the winds direction and speed.

TRANSPORTATION - Once he has made up his mind you will be informed of his decision and will be transported to the site in our vehicles. Launch sites may be located upwards of 30 minutes driving time away from meeting location.

LAUNCH SITE - Once on site the Pilot will give a Passenger Safety Briefing and give a description of what to expect during the flight.

INFLATION - It takes about 30 minutes and a helping hand from a couple of passengers to inflate the balloon. Once upright the Pilot will invite you to board the aircraft. He will give a brief explanation of how he controls the aircraft and get you to practise the landing position.

THE FLIGHT - Whilst the Pilot will have a fair idea of the landing area, but being a weather dependant activity you can never be too sure. Whilst you enjoying the flight and scenery the pilot will be finding out exactly what the winds will allow him to do. About 15 minutes into the flight he will have a very good idea of where you will end up. If he is feeling confident, and wants to show off he'll probably tell you where he is aiming for.

LANDING - After 45-60 minutes flying you will be preparing for landing. Its usually a open paddock or sports field, but who knows it may well be someones backyard. The landing are generally very smooth, but the faster the surface wind the more of a drag down the paddock. If your really lucky you may even fall over. Don't worry it's a lot of fun. Your Pilot will inform you what to expect.

PACKING UP - The Ground Crew is usually on site to assist in packing the balloon away. A fun job which your happy to do once or twice in a lifetime. Takes about 20 minutes but works up a fantastic appitite for breakfast.

RETURN TRIP - Something to bring you back to reality. Could take 5 minutes or 1 hour depending on how far we have flown.

Champagne Breakfast

After completing your Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Hunter Valley, why not enjoy the company of your Pilot over a champagne breakfast.

An ideal way to top off the morning allowing you to get to know your fellow adventurers better and chat about your experience.

Held at The Crown Plaza Hotel, you will enjoy the the best breakfast at the Hunter Valley's finest Hotel.
HOMEWARD BOUND - The entire experience, including breakfast takes about 4-4.5 hours.

Further Information

Meeting Location

Our meeting site is at Old Government House, located within the grounds of Parramatta Park. Entry is through the main gates located on the corner of Pitt & Macquarie Streets, Parramatta. Whilst the Park is utilised as a launch site for the balloon, only the wind direction and speed will dictate where we launch from on your flight day.

Meeting Time

During the weather check, the afternoon prior to your flight, the pilot will inform you of the exact meeting time. It is important to be punctual.

Weather

As ballooning is a weather dependent activity, passengers are requested to contact our office the afternoon prior to their adventure for the meeting time. On the morning of the flight passengers are required to call in for a final weather check. In the event of your flight being cancelled simply telephone our office to reschedule. Flight tickets are valid for 12 months.