What sort of person enjoys a hot air balloon ride?
Hot air ballooning is a great equalizer.
We have witnessed happy faces from teenagers to retired folks, and everyone in between
while floating over our beautiful Adirondack Region! The real common denominator seems
to be that everyone appears to really enjoy life, and have a curiosity for new experiences
and adventure.
What is Hot Air Ballooning like?
A hot air balloon ride
is spectacular and extremely smooth.
There is no sense of motion during the
balloon flight, and if you carried a candle aloft it would not flicker. There is no need to worry about motion sickness, like in a plane or a boat on water. Your balloon
ride offers unobstructed 360-degree views of our spectacular
Adirondack scenery. The average balloon
flight covers 10 miles and lasts
about 1 hour. When a hot air balloon lands, it is normal to
experience a bump or series of bumps when the balloon basket
touches the ground. How bumpy the landing
gets, will depend on the wind speed at touchdown.
How many can fly together in the Hot Air Balloon?
A shared space flight
is limited to 4 plus the pilot. You can also arrange for a
private group flight for family or friends with a reservation of at least 3, up to a maximum of
4 (weight and space restrictions apply to number allowed on flight).
We feature Private Flights for Two that many use for
marriage proposals, anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions.
What do I wear and bring?
The temperature aloft during the balloon flight is about the same as on the ground. We recommend that you
wear casual, outdoor type of clothing
that you might wear on a hike or working around the yard,
and flat shoes like sneakers or boots - not flip-flops,
sandals or heeled shoes. Waterproof footwear is advisable on
morning flights, since the country fields we use can be wet
with morning dew. A hat or cap can be helpful due to the
heat from the propane burner above our heads, that heats the
air in the hot air balloon. Do bring your camera, perhaps
sunglasses and binoculars, but remember space is limited.
Don't wear shorts, and especially dresses, sandals
or heels since we will be out in rural country fields, and
our activity is not appropriate for this type of wear.
Is Age and Health a consideration?
Our balloon flight is not recommended for those under 10 or over 80, pregnant women, persons with osteoporosis, recent trauma or surgery. People taking blood thinners need to be aware that it's possible to get bumped or bruised on the landing.
While we do have seating available, folks typically stand during the balloon flight, and some agility to get in and out of the balloon basket is helpful.
What special
occasions have you witnessed?
Over the years, my balloon flights have celebrated
anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, retirements and many
marriage proposals! We have noticed many "Bucket
List" check-offs and have also had a few
weddings performed up in our balloons. Our "Private
Flight" is a popular romantic venue for
marriage proposals and other special occasions.
What is included in our Adirondack balloon ride?
In addition to your balloon ride, if you are a hands-on type of person you have the opportunity to help the ground crew with the hot air balloon. Or, you can just stand back and enjoy the process of making ready and inflating your hot air balloon. Complimentary refreshments including a champagne toast are served during the balloon flight. We take
digital pictures of you on your memorable balloon flight. Later you can access our web site where you can view and print-out the pictures we took of your balloon ride. Family and friends can also access our web site and your pictures. Just go to the
Photos
page and click our your balloon flight date on the
calendar. We provide transportation from our pick-up point at
Exit 19 in Queensbury, NY out to the balloon flight area.
Are gratuities for the chase crew appropriate?
Gratuities are always appreciated but not expected - it is completely up to you. |
