Imagine soaring high above Montreal’s skyline, witnessing the city’s historic streets, modern landmarks, and natural beauty all in one breathtaking flight. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture. This helicopter experience offers a rare chance to see Montreal’s top attractions from a perspective most visitors never get to enjoy.
What we love about this tour? First, the personalized, private flight makes for an intimate experience, free from the crowds of bigger tours. Second, the stunning views—from the historic Old Montreal to the Olympic Stadium and the expansive St. Lawrence River—are truly unforgettable. A potential consideration is the weather’s role; since the tour is weather-dependent, cloudy or stormy days might limit flying.
This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate unique perspectives and are looking for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just craving an extraordinary way to explore Montreal, this helicopter tour promises a combination of awe, insight, and luxury.
This experience made our article of Our 5 Favorite Montreal Helicopter Flights & Tours.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience with a small group or your own group only
- Multiple itineraries and departure times add flexibility to your schedule
- Stunning aerial views of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks and natural sites
- Knowledgeable live commentary enhances understanding of the sights
- Value for money based on the quality of views and professional service
- Weather-dependent — clear skies make for the best experience
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An Overview of the Experience
This helicopter tour over Montreal is presented as a memorable way to see the city from above, with options tailored to different interests. The tour is operated by Helicraft, a reputable provider with many happy customers. You’ll enjoy 18 to 27 minutes of flight time, enough to get a good overview without feeling overwhelmed. The total cost is around $185.41 per person, which many consider a fair price given the exclusivity of a private helicopter ride and the stunning views.
Booking includes a mobile ticket, live commentary, headsets for clarity, and all taxes and fees—meaning no hidden costs. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point at Helicraft’s flight school in Saint-Hubert. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Montreal
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The tour offers two main routes, allowing you to choose based on your interests. Both routes start and end at the same location, giving you a seamless experience.
The Montreal Tour: This route takes you over Vieux-Montreal, highlighting the historic heart of the city with its centuries-old architecture and lively streets. You’ll also get views of the Olympic Stadium, a striking modern landmark from the 1976 Olympics. A flight over Old Montreal lets you appreciate the cobblestone streets and heritage buildings from a unique vantage point.
The Saint-Laurent Circuit: This loop offers views of Jean Drapeau Park, famous for its outdoor festivals and recreational spaces, as well as the St. Lawrence River, a vital waterway that defines Montreal’s landscape. The Boucherville Islands are also part of this route, offering a glimpse of natural beauty and wildlife.
Several notable landmarks are included, such as the Jacques Cartier Bridge, which is especially dramatic from the air, and Mont-Royal Mountain, where the famous Oratory sits atop. These sites are often cited in reviews as the highlights, offering both cultural context and scenic beauty.
The Experience on Board
Expect a smooth, panoramic flight with live commentary from your pilot, who is often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. Many reviewers mention the professionalism of the staff and the pilot’s ability to explain what you’re seeing. For some, the experience is so enjoyable that they’d gladly do it again, especially in winter when Montreal’s scenery takes on a different, snowy character.
Passengers often comment on the quality of the views—“amazing,” “phenomenal,” and “magical” are common adjectives. The helicopter’s panoramic windows allow for unobstructed sightseeing, making every moment picture-worthy.
The flight duration—ranging from 18 to 27 minutes—means you get a substantive overview without feeling rushed. Some reviews mention slight delays or waiting times, especially when weather conditions are tricky, but the operator is noted for working with customers to reschedule if needed.
What the Reviews Say
Customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 149 reviews. Many raved about the knowledgeable guides and pilots, describing them as respectful and helpful, often providing interesting facts about the city’s landmarks.
A featured review highlights how the staff “worked with us to get into the air between storms,” showcasing flexibility and customer care. Several reviewers emphasized the stunning aerial views—“what a wonderful experience,” “amazing views of Montreal,” and “a great way to see the city from a different perspective.”
Some reviews noted minor drawbacks, such as delays or a short flight time, but these were generally overshadowed by the overall value and memorable experience. One review pointed out that the pilot’s explanations made the trip both informative and comfortable, especially for first-time helicopter flyers.
Value for Money
At around $185, this helicopter tour offers strong value for those wanting an exclusive, personalized sightseeing experience. For comparison, helicopter rides tend to be premium experiences, but the small group and live commentary make it feel more intimate and informative than larger, automated tours.
While it’s not a budget activity, the blend of stunning visuals, professional guides, and flexible scheduling makes it an attractive option for special occasions or those wanting a unique story to tell. The inclusion of all taxes and fees in the price also simplifies budgeting.
Helicopter Tour Over Montreal
Practical Details
The tour departs from Helicraft’s location at 6500 Ch. de la Savane, Saint-Hubert, with options for multiple departure times throughout the day, accommodating different schedules. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, plan to arrive at the meeting point on time.
Due to weight restrictions—passengers over 250 lbs. cannot fly—the experience may not be suitable for everyone. Children under 24 months are free but must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with young kids and first-timers alike.
Weather is a key factor; flights are only confirmed when conditions are favorable, and poor weather might result in cancellations or rescheduling, which the provider handles professionally.
This helicopter tour is perfect for those celebrating a special event, like an anniversary or birthday, or for anyone who simply loves unique vistas. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors eager to get a quick, rundown of Montreal’s highlights from the air.
If you’re someone who appreciates professional guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to see the city from a completely different angle, this experience is well worth considering. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or seeking a longer, more detailed tour, you might want to explore other options.
Is there a minimum or maximum age for this tour?
Children under 24 months can fly for free if they sit on an adult’s lap. The tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking, but there’s no specified upper age limit as long as weight restrictions are met.
How long is the flight?
The total flight time ranges from approximately 18 to 27 minutes, providing enough time to see multiple landmarks and get a good sense of the city.
What landmarks will I see on the tour?
You’ll see Vieux-Montreal, Old Montreal, the Olympic Stadium, Jacques Cartier Bridge, Mont-Royal Mountain, and the Boucherville Islands, among others.
Are there any restrictions based on weight?
Yes, passengers weighing over 250 lbs. cannot be accommodated due to helicopter weight/balance considerations.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time. Poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling, handled smoothly by the operator.
Is there a safety briefing or commentary during the flight?
Yes, live commentary from your pilot explains what you’re viewing, ensuring an informative experience.
How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is accessible by public transportation and is located at Helicraft’s flight school in Saint-Hubert, Quebec.
Are there food or drink options?
The tour price does not include food or drinks; it’s strictly a sightseeing flight.
Will I be able to take photos?
Absolutely. The panoramic windows provide excellent opportunities for photography, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
A helicopter tour over Montreal offers a rare, exhilarating way to see this vibrant city from above. The combination of stunning landmarks, professional guides, and flexible scheduling makes it ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for those celebrating special moments or seeking a unique perspective beyond walking tours or traditional sightseeing buses.
While weather conditions can influence the experience, the talented pilots and attentive staff generally ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride. For the price, you’ll gain unparalleled views and stories to impress friends back home. It’s a luxury experience with genuine value—an adventure worth considering during your Montreal visit.
Note: Always check the weather forecast and confirm your booking in advance, especially if visiting in winter or during unpredictable weather seasons.
