We had a once in a lifetime experience on Westwind's Signature Grand Canyon South and Ground Tour. I have a terrible fear of flying but I was desperate to be able to do this tour. If not today, when, was part of my logic.
My husband and I arrived at Sedona Airport and watched our plane arrive and I was happy to see the size of the plane. The captain came through the gate, introduced herself and asked if I was her guest! I told her I was and I was scared Sh**less:) Captain Carla was so kind and professional and assured me I would have a wonderful day and would be able to enjoy the flight. I was comforted by her kindness and assurances.
Upon boarding the plane with 8 wide comfortable seats for guests I knew if I sat and buckled up I would not turn back:) I did it!
The flight to the Grand Canyon was extremely calm and I found the guide information and soothing background music of the headset extremely calming! Captain Carla interupped the voice tour multiple times to point out various additional points of initerest! Captain even checked on how I was doing mid flight which was so kind!
The first view of the Grand Canyon in the distance is awesome! As we flew around the Canyon, the pictures and videos do not do it justice of the awe you feel viewing it from above! I am so very thankful I was able to complete the tour and feel I was able to do it because of Captain Carla. The Carla Touch:)
We were transferred to BuckWild Hummer Tour for the ground portion. I will review them on their page as well. Tom was our driver, the hummer was exceptionally comfortable, we traveled with a total of 12 guests. The rows of seats are stepped so the view from each row was great, not effected at all by persons in front of you! Great set up. Tom our driver was professional, and extremely knowledgable of all things related to The Grand Canyon park. It was a pleasure to get to know him during our 3 hour tour. He obviously loves his job and shares that feeling with his guests!
Our return flight to Sedona was a not as calm as outgoing but Captain Carla tried to find some smoother air but it was impossible. Even with the slight occassional bumps the flight was awesome, the views are just indescribable!
Thank you to Lindsey for arranging our reservation with kindness, and professionalism. Thank you to Captain Carla, without her calming, professionalism and expertise I don't know if I could have done it. Thank you to Tom for sharing his knowledge with us and his insights to The Grand Canyon as well as his wife who arranged all the lunches for our gourp!
I wish I could give this tour higher than a 5*!