- Open 7 Days
1. Activity Highlights
Exclusive Souvenir: [Free Fridge Magnet] Every passenger who successfully completes the flight will receive an exquisite hot air balloon fridge magnet.
Yarra Valley Views: Experience Victoria’s most stunning winery region as you glide over winding country roads and vast vineyards in the soft dawn light.
A Journey for the Soul: Overlook mist-covered mountains and witness the sunrise, rediscovering a sense of freedom and vitality in this hidden paradise.
Nature’s Escape: Only an hour’s drive from Melbourne, this location offers panoramic views and stable weather conditions, making it the perfect escape from the city.
2. Duration
Total Time: Approximately 3 – 3.5 hours.
Inclusions: Travel to launch site, balloon setup/inflation, approx. 1-hour flight, and return to the meeting point.
3. Reference Itinerary
Check-in: Meet at Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa.
Interactive Experience: Passengers are welcome to assist the crew with the installation and inflation of the balloon.
The Flight: Approximately 1 hour of flying time in the sky.
Collaborative Pack-up: After landing, guests can help the crew pack away the balloon—a fun and engaging process.
Conclusion: The entire experience lasts about 3 – 3.5 hours, typically returning to the meeting point for dismissal between 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.
1. Meeting Information
Meeting Point: Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa
Address: 1309 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
Parking: Free parking is available at the meeting location.
2. Estimated Monthly Meeting Times (Subject to final notification before departure)
Jan: 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM | Feb: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM | Mar: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM
Apr: 5:15 AM – 6:00 AM | May: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Jun: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
Jul: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Aug: 5:15 AM – 5:45 AM | Sep: 4:30 AM – 5:15 AM
Oct: 4:30 AM – 5:15 AM | Nov: 4:15 AM – 4:45 AM | Dec: 4:15 AM – 4:45 AM
3. How to Use & Flight Confirmation
Booking Confirmation: Your e-confirmation will be sent via email; please verify all details. You are required to make your own way to the meeting point on the day.
App Mandatory: Download the Global Ballooning Australia app prior to your trip.
Setup: Enter your flight location and date, and enable push notifications. You will receive exact meeting times and flight status updates the night before.
Email Link: A flight status link will also be sent to your registered email.
Important Notice: If the flight is cancelled due to adverse weather, please contact us to reschedule. Failure to follow the flight confirmation process resulting in a missed flight will void the booking without refund.
1. Important Notices & Weather Policy
Flight Confirmation: CRITICAL! You must check the latest flight updates via the App the night before to confirm flight status and exact pickup times.
Notification: You will be notified by 6:00 PM the night before. Waivers/check-in can be completed in the App beforehand.
Weather Decision: All flights are weather-dependent. The pilot makes the final decision based on safety.
Communication: A WeChat group for guests, pilots, and staff will be created on the flight day for seamless contact.
2. Pre-flight Essentials & Dress Code
Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are mandatory (strictly no heels, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes). Bring spare socks as feet may get wet from morning dew.
Clothing: Wear warm, sturdy, layered outdoor clothing (like hiking gear). Hats and warm socks are recommended due to burner heat.
Belongings: Pockets must have zippers. No bags allowed on the balloon (can be left in ground vehicles). Cameras are allowed (at own risk), but no selfie sticks or tripods.
Material Warning: Avoid flammable or brightly colored fabrics due to potential burner sparks or soot. No compensation for such damage.
3. Eligibility & Health Restrictions
Age & Pricing: Minimum age is 6. Ages 6-12 (inclusive) qualify for child rates (must be accompanied); ages 13+ are adult rates. Unaccompanied flyers aged 13-18 require guardian consent.
Health: No major surgery in the last 6 months; must be capable of standing for 1 hour.
Weight Limit: Generally 140kg; excess weight may incur additional fees.
Safety: Not recommended for late-stage pregnancy. Pilots reserve the right to refuse boarding for safety reasons, such as high winds.
4. Participation & Accessibility
Participation: Guests are encouraged to assist with setting up and packing the balloon.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users. The basket is approx. 1m high with foot holes and a ladder for access.
Cancellation 0-7 days before departure: 100% of the booking amount will be charged (100% loss).
Cancellation 8 days or more before departure: Full refund (0% loss).
Booking Confirmation: Upon successful booking, a confirmation voucher will be sent to your email containing essential details and participation notices. Please read it carefully. In the absence of feedback, it is assumed that you have read and acknowledged all information provided.
Agency Role: We operate solely as an intermediary agency responsible for booking travel products on behalf of travelers.
Insurance Recommendation: We strongly advise travelers to purchase travel insurance. Suppliers (attractions, hotels, transport companies, etc.) are directly responsible for the quality, service, and safety of their products. We are not liable for any safety issues related to the booked products.
Accident Handling: In the event of an accident where no insurance was purchased, we will provide assistance only.
Forced Cancellations: If a booking is cancelled due to the supplier’s reasons, we will provide a full refund of the booking amount but will not offer additional compensation.
Mediation: We will make every effort to assist travelers in communicating and negotiating solutions with the suppliers.
Special Terms for Marine Products: For marine-based products (including but not limited to cruises and whale watching), suppliers reserve the right to arrange alternative vessels or modify itineraries, schedules, routes, and/or destinations. Suppliers reserve the right to cancel or abandon a voyage for weather or safety reasons. We are not responsible for any losses or expenses incurred by passengers due to such substitutions or cancellations.
