All flights are different – No two are alike - as we are at the whim of Mother Nature.

We will wake you with a gentle but firm voice at approximately 5:15 a.m. This gives you approximately one and one half hours to meet us at our centralized location (map). We will get acquainted and learn where we will drift off from. The launch site is determined on the day of the flight by the pilot just prior to flying. We have various launch sites around the area and will use the site most appropriate for our scenic flight depending upon wind direction and speed.

At the launch site the basket is placed in proper position, the balloon envelope is rolled out and fastened to the basket. A powerful fan is started and the envelope is inflated while on the ground. Passengers are invited to assist with the inflation as this lends to a real hands-on experience. When the envelope is fully inflated the burners are fired to heat the air inside the envelope and cause it to rise to a standing position. We then load the passengers aboard. This will be the beginning of a magical adventure you will always remember.

Liftoff is gentle. You will hardly notice as the ground starts to disappear under your gondola. The balloon flies as low as treetop level or will ascend to a height of 2000-3000 feet. BRING YOUR CAMERA!!!

You are transported along corridors of fields and trees by gentle currents of air. You will notice people stopping their cars and taking photographs of YOU. As we continue to rise above it all you will see a breath-taking sunrise, the Atlantic Ocean, the Everglades – all in one panoramic view.

Part of the adventure is not knowing your final destination. Since the balloons do not have any mechanical means of controlling direction, they go wherever the wind currents lead them.

Before you know, it’s time to land (flights average 40 minutes to one hour). Unlike airplanes, balloons rarely land at established airports. We select a suitable landing site and upon the final touchdown both crew members and passengers will prepare the equipment for loading onto the chase vehicle (van), so that we can transport all passengers back to the original centralized meeting place (map).

A table filled with cheeses, crackers, fruits, assorted treats, champagne and orange juice will be prepared for your enjoyment – all in preparation for our Champagne Toast….

The ceremony is one of tradition – a tradition in excess of 218 years old. Great stories are told and lifelong friendships are sealed. All passengers are encouraged to bring along family members and friends to share in your experience. At last the toast is made (poem) and we are now members of a fraternity unique unto itself…A great time will be remembered by all.

Allow up to three and one half hours for the entire trip and enjoy the memories of a lifetime!

 

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