What a Trifecta - Beautiful Lands, Dynamic Volcanoes and Majestic Waterfalls - all on the Big Island Hawaii.
My adult son and I achieved one of my major bucket list adventures - a helicopter tour of the vast Island of Hawaii. Meeting with the team of Moana Lau Helicopters on the Big Island was like meeting up with old friends - so relaxed, secure, friendly and excited to have some serious FUN.
Due to weather conditions, the team at Moana Loa shifted our flight times because foremost they wanted us to have the best experience we could have. I have not come across any kther tour company as flexible and caring as this - thank you Dan and Natalie.
I shall be forever grateful for their care and attention to providing us with one of the most outstanding experiences of my life. If you have to choose one thing from all of the marvellous experiences to be had on the Big Island of Hawaii, choose a private helicopter trip.
I have been on a helicopter in Africa with a group tour where I was squashed in the back seat between several people - could hardly see a darn thing. For Hawaii I figured if I'm going to spend significant money for a significant experience, I would make sure I received value for money and a memorable experience. By choosing Moana Loa Helicopters, I certainly received all of that and much more!
Doing this two hour, doors on, helicopter tour with Moana Loa was excellent value for money and an experience that left me speechless from Joy, Adventure, Fun, Thrills, Excitement, Humility and Gratitude.
Things to know before you go:
* it is safe - the pilot gives a detailed safety briefing while waiting in the comfortable 'waiting area'
* use the restroom just before you go because the helicopter does have a constant vibration
* the pilot can set down in Hilo for a 'pit stop / restroom break' an hour into the trip if needed
* doors on was comfortable because it was far less noisy, not windy and better temperature controlled
* definitely wear dark clothing if you are taking photos - this cuts down on reflections showing up in your pictures
* it is customary to tip the pilot - as Aussies we're not used to tipping but it was a great way to show our appreciation for the wonderful flying he did
* there might be some bumps and rocking so if you get sea sick or air sick, take something to remedy that before leaving the ground
* trust your pilot - they are highly trained and vastly experienced
* ask to see what you most want to see - the pilot wants you to gain the most from your flight
* let go of any fears and have a heap of fun
Thank you to all of the Moana Loa Family for giving me the best rides of my life in Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island!!