- All ages
- 1.5 hours
The Catalina Flyer departs once a day from Newport Beach, arriving in Avalon in just over an hour. Return transportation included in your purchase.
$ 199
Free
*Refunds & exchanges are subject to availability. Click here to read our cancellation policy.
Travel to Long Beach–or Long Beach to Catalina Island–in just 15 minutes aboard one of Maverick’s fleet of helicopters. A helicopter flight to Catalina Island starts your vacation off on a high note, with professional pilots and a dedication to safety. During your flight, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the California coastline, the Pacific Ocean, and Catalina Island. Watch for whales and dolphins as you cross the channel in just minutes.
Maverick has been delivering exclusive tours of Southern California and Catalina since 1982. Our fleet of seven top-of-the-line turbine helicopters flies out of our oceanfront heliport located at the majestic Queen Mary in Long Beach. We have been at the Queen Mary property since 1998. Additional departures are available from San Pedro, Burbank, and Orange County. Our highly experienced pilots offer a safe, fun, informative tour narrating highlights as you view the breathtaking vistas of Catalina Island and along the Southern California coastline.
What you should know about this experience:
Requirements:A valid government-issued photo ID is required for all guests 18 or older at check-in. Changes or cancellations are not permitted within 72 hours of departure. No-shows will be charged in full with no refunds. All passengers must check in 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time; failure to comply may cause flight cancellation with no reimbursement. Excursions require a minimum number of passengers to operate.
Baggage: The baggage allowance is 25 lbs. per person. The baggage compartments on our aircraft are small, therefore please use soft-sided bags and let us know in advance if you have any large or odd-shaped baggage. We cannot guarantee accommodating coolers.
Weight Limits: The maximum weight limit per person is 300 pounds / 136 kilos / 21 stone; guests exceeding the limit must purchase an additional seat. Based on location and the season, a maximum weight limit per helicopter will be enforced. Guests with inaccurately stated weights may be canceled with no refund.
With proper identification, children under 2 years of age can travel on an adult’s lap. Children 2 years or older will be required to purchase a seat.
We are required to complete weight and balance calculations for the aircraft. Therefore we do have guest weight and size limits which vary depending upon which aircraft we are using and how many guests are on each flight. Please be as accurate as possible when giving guest weights to our staff. Guests will be weighed at check-in and we may refuse service if there is a large discrepancy between guests ’ given weights. Guest weight is kept in confidence.
Restrictions: For your safety, you should be in good health & free from high blood pressure, heart, neck, or back problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure. For safety reasons, the FAA requires that we refuse service to any guest for being under the influence of Alcohol or Drugs. Force Majeure: We are not responsible for adverse elements beyond our control, i.e.: weather or mechanical breakdown.
Maverick Helicopters reserves the right to combine different length flights and all times are approximate. Prices and schedules are subject to change without notice.
ISLAND EXPRESS HELICOPTERS
1175 QUEENS HWY
LONG BEACH, CA 90802
How many people can fit in the helicopter?
Island Express offers two size helicopters, one that accommodates six passengers and one that accommodates nine passengers. Passengers will be seated according to weight distribution; passengers traveling together may not be able to sit together.
Where do I park for the helicopter if I’m leaving from Long Beach?
The Long Beach heliport is conveniently located near the Queen Mary. Just follow the signs for the Queen Mary and then the signs for Island Express Helicopters.
Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page.
The Catalina Flyer departs once a day from Newport Beach, arriving in Avalon in just over an hour. Return transportation included in your purchase.
Catalina Island’s original custom guided golf cart tour! Explore Avalon while learning about the history and culture of Catalina Island.