Gananoque: Helicopter Tour with Craft Brewery Stop and Lunch

Imagine soaring above the 1000 Islands archipelago, taking in the sparkling waters, historic castles, and even shipwrecks resting at the river’s bottom—all from the vantage point of a helicopter. This tour, based out of Gananoque, offers a unique blend of aerial sightseeing, local craft brewing, and a delicious pizza lunch.

It’s a package that appeals to those craving an active, engaging day with plenty of authentic flavor and breathtaking scenery.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the personalized feel of the small group and the opportunity to combine spectacular views with local tastes. The helicopter offers intimate, bird’s-eye perspectives, and the brewery visit introduces you to Canada’s first solar-powered craft brewery—something a little different from your typical pub stop.

A potential consideration? The tour’s weather-dependent schedule means that if the skies are cloudy or stormy, your plans might need to shift. Still, for travelers who love a mix of adventure and good food, this experience feels well worth it.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, food and drink enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the stunning 1000 Islands from above while enjoying some local brews and a relaxed meal. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a memorable day trip that balances thrill with comfort.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 3 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Gananoque.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Fly over the 1000 Islands, Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and shipwrecks, with clear water and lush scenery.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit Canada’s first solar-powered craft brewery and stroll through hop fields.
• All-in-One Tour: Combines a 30-minute helicopter flight, a brewery visit, and a pizza lunch for a full day of fun.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and more intimate encounters.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Weather Dependence: Flights are subject to weather conditions, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Out: The Check-in and Pre-Flight Briefing

Your adventure begins at the ‘1000 Islands Helicopter Tours’ office near highway 401, a straightforward location with good parking options. Check-in is smooth—just show your voucher, and you’ll get a quick briefing. The staff are friendly and professional, setting a relaxed tone for the experience ahead.

The Helicopter Flight: A Bird’s-Eye Perspective

Once strapped into the helicopter, your pilot provides clear instructions and uses a headset so you can hear their commentary. The ride lasts about 30 minutes, during which you will glide over the stunning landscape of the archipelago, with highlights like Boldt Castle—famous for its fairy-tale appearance—and Singer Castle, which adds a historic touch. You’ll also see Millionaire’s Row, the 1000 Islands International Bridge, and possibly shipwrecks on the riverbed—resting silent witness to the area’s maritime past.

The reviews consistently mention how smooth and enjoyable the flight is. One reviewer notes, “The flight was smooth, and the scenery was breathtaking,” emphasizing that the helicopter is a comfortable way to see multiple iconic sites without tiring your legs.

Landing at the Brewery: Craft Beer and Hops Fields

After the flight, you’ll land at ARBRU Craft Brewery, Canada’s first off-grid solar-powered brewery. Here, you’ll take a leisurely stroll through fields of hops—a rare chance to see the ingredients that craft the beers you’ll taste later.

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The Beer Flight and Pizza Lunch

The brewery staff greet you with a sampler flight of craft beers, which are noted for their quality and variety. Many reviews highlight the tastings as a highlight: “The drinks were very tasty,” says one, and another mentions that the beers and cider “never had better.” You can choose from options like pepperoni, meat lovers, or classic Margherita pizza, baked in a stone-fired oven, enhancing the flavor.

This laid-back meal allows you to digest the views and the experience, sharing impressions with your companions. The combination of pizza and craft beer proves to be just the right balance of satisfying comfort and local authenticity.

The Return Flight

Once you’ve enjoyed your pizza and drinks, you’ll hop back into the helicopter for the return leg to Gananoque. The total experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet memorable day trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

A Unique Perspective on the 1000 Islands

Seeing the archipelago from above is a game-changer. The bird’s-eye view reveals the true scale and beauty of the islands, and the proximity of the landmarks like Boldt and Singer Castles makes them feel tangible rather than distant.

The Brewery Experience: More Than Just a Stop

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this experience includes a visit to a pioneering craft brewery, where you can learn about sustainable brewing practices and see the hop fields firsthand. The tasting flight offers a genuine taste of local innovation, with reviews calling the beers “exceptional.”

The Intimate Group Size

Limited to just six participants, the tour offers a more personalized experience. Reviewers have appreciated the knowledgeable pilots and guides, who share interesting facts about the area and keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed.

Practical Features: Flexibility and Comfort

Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later—and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior. While the helicopter is weather-dependent, the tour provider keeps travelers informed, prioritizing safety without sacrificing the overall experience.

Analyzing the Value

At $305 per person, this tour is certainly an investment, but one that many find justified by the quality of the views, the unique brewery visit, and the overall smooth organization. Compared with other aerial or cruise options, it offers a comprehensive experience that combines sightseeing, local food, and craft brewing into one memorable package. The reviews repeatedly mention how worth the price is for the quality and uniqueness of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous spirits who enjoy scenic views and want to combine that with local flavor. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, groups of friends, or families with older children (given the helicopter weight limit). If you’re curious about craft beer or want to see the stunning landscape of the St. Lawrence River, this tour hits all those marks.

If you’re seeking a balanced blend of adventure, scenery, and local culture, this Gananoque helicopter tour with brewery stop offers a memorable way to experience the 1000 Islands. The spectacular aerial views alone make it worth considering, but the added touch of visiting Canada’s first solar brewery and enjoying some delicious pizza elevates it further. It’s a good choice for those who want a small-group, personalized experience that’s both fun and authentic.

While weather can always be a wildcard, the professionalism of the team and the varied highlights make this tour a solid pick for travelers prepared to embrace a bit of unpredictability for a truly extraordinary day.

How long is the helicopter tour?
The helicopter ride lasts about 30 minutes, providing ample time to see the main sights of the 1000 Islands.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes the helicopter flight, a pilot, a headset with microphone, the brewery visit, a pizza lunch, and a craft beer flight.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible, and you pay later if you prefer.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum of two participants to run, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum weight per passenger is 275 pounds.

What if the weather isn’t good on the day?
Flights are weather-dependent, so if conditions are unsafe, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled. The provider prioritizes safety.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Show your voucher at the front desk of ‘1000 Islands Helicopter Tours’, located off exit 645 on highway 401.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off is not included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point.

What type of pizza is served?
You can choose from pepperoni, meat lovers, or Margherita; all are cooked in a stone-fired oven for great flavor.

This tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see the iconic 1000 Islands from above and enjoy some authentic local brews and food. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable outing, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby