South Queensferry Helicopter Tours: Top 5 Adventures
If you’re searching for something pretty spectacular to do, soaring above South Queensferry in a helicopter is certainly it. Picture this: the iconic Forth Bridge spread out down below, the coastline unfolding, and that incredible Scottish light catching every detail. So, which tour gives you the most amazing bang for your buck? We took a closer peek at the top five, just to help you pick the experience that’s perfect. It’s almost like choosing the perfect dram of whisky – personal taste really counts!
1. Forth Bridge Flyer: A Queensferry Classic
First up, there’s the “Forth Bridge Flyer”. What a name, right? What you get is a real quick tour focusing tightly on the bridges. Now, it’s just a short trip, so the money asked reflects that – it’s kind of a ‘taster’ flight. It’s usually around 15 minutes in the air, what is pretty much ideal if you’re a little short on time yet eager to glimpse this spot from way up high. The main focus, understandably, it’s almost always on the Forth Bridge, with those incredible red girders looking like some Meccano set gone wild! The view over the town, too, is actually pretty magnificent. One reviewer mentioned the way the pilot pointed out historical landmarks – actually, they mentioned Inchcolm Abbey, down below, and told some tall tales about the area.
Something pretty neat about this trip is its concentration. Some helicopter rides can become, well, quite long with the bits between main sights. That one just sticks to that landmark view. I guess that, if you just want ‘the money shot’ for Instagram or just a spectacular memory, this is probably it. But you should just remember the actual time goes fast, just blink and you’ll probably miss it!
Read our full review: Forth Bridge Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Forth Bridge Flyer)
2. Edinburgh Panorama: City Views from Above
Okay, imagine seeing Edinburgh Castle, way, way off down below like just some toy fort – pretty amazing, actually. It’s pretty awesome how the “Edinburgh Panorama” tour gives that and more. This one normally extends slightly further inland, right across the capital. So, if you love cityscapes mixed with history, you should consider that pretty deeply.
The flight length tends to be a bit longer, somewhere near 20-25 minutes, and for sure you pay that extra cash but just look at what you’re getting. Apart from Edinburgh Castle, be prepared for views across Arthur’s Seat, down to Holyrood Palace. It’s like Edinburgh’s greatest hits, but viewed from a unique viewpoint. I feel like this tour works if some in your group love the big historical monuments, when others feel keen on nature. Is that because it pretty much ticks boxes? Reviewers, actually, comment specifically about the fantastic knowledge from the pilot. Some would usually mention things, that help piece everything you are watching below down to a picture – stories behind landmarks. That part, I feel, just brings the entire city to life.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Castle Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Edinburgh Panorama Tour)
3. Coastal Explorer: A Seaside Sojourn
Then we get that “Coastal Explorer”. This ride sticks to the Firth of Forth coastline, showing that beautiful varied scenery that exists all around South Queensferry. This is actually pretty good if dramatic coastlines float your ship (see what I did there?!). Prepare to fly across some cliffs, over sandy bays, too past charming small fishing towns. I’d reckon it is almost an ideal trip for just soaking up Scotland’s natural beauty and rugged charm.
This tour goes for perhaps around 30 minutes, just giving some great opportunities for sightseeing – seals lounging near the shore if you’re super lucky! You may see various seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Several testimonials mention how great the views are during sunset – everything’s just painted gold. Therefore, if you love photography, trying for just that slot could potentially bring some rewards. Plus, is it just me, or would anyone really find seaside air that bit fresher from hundreds feet high?
Read our full review: Firth of Forth coastline Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Coastal Explorer)
4. The Grand Tour: Ultimate Scottish Scenery
This “Grand Tour” is named appropriately. Now, we’re looking at what can seem almost like the deluxe experience. You are actually getting a real blend from the bridges to the city along that lovely coastline all thrown in. As far as value-for-cash goes, it truly needs consideration, if you feel prepared for a bit of indulgence. It can cost just that extra cash though. It has to be noted that time extends to 45 minutes up to an hour sometimes, just ensuring absolutely everything is explored properly.
Feedback from other sightseers frequently talks around those “unforgettable” views and superb opportunities when you are looking to take photos. The flight offers the depth, giving time so one can settle directly into experience, that one is likely never in life going to forget. So, if you’re wanting that experience of full indulgence, without looking back regarding budget, arguably, then, that really might be it.
Read our full review: Scottish Scenery Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (The Grand Tour)
5. Customizable Charter: Your Flight, Your Way
Last, let’s touch on this option – the “Customizable Charter.” When there are some trips available, it doesn’t always fit exactly for what you are after. Arguably you’ve already seen this region a load and fancy capturing only that specific sight in super-quick moment? Potentially you would love to visit that hidden family castle tucked directly into that hills far away? What this choice means is you can then talk about itinerary that ideally meets one’s wants.
Usually this is often arranged, obviously, following straight discussions directly together with the tour provider. This can have effect, naturally, across all pricing. Anyway, if you have particular desires, possibly there is something pretty extraordinary occurring that one may love captured beautifully via air, this truly grants total mastery and power. I would mention too, how often reviews would be touching at customized schedules that have supported really specific shooting agendas. Seems, almost, that absolutely nothing says luxury somewhat like possessing your personalized helicopter experience completely planned only for you!
Read our full review: Customizable Charter Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Customizable Charter)
