Nauticalia

There are few experiences as serene and at the same time thrilling, as a Balloon Ride. There is a sensation of time suspended as the world passes by quietly below. It is also a photographers dream with no feeling of movement and no cold breezes as you drift with the wind. Balloon flights are both fun and exhilarating and give you the opportunity to see the world in slow motion from a huge wicker basket. 
 

What happens on the day?

After a safety briefing from your pilot the excitement begins with the inflation of the balloon envelope, which is often almost 7 stories high. Climb aboard, and as you take off the feeling will be one of pure elation. The direction of the flight will be dictated by the wind and the flight itself will last around one hour. Your view of the countryside will be uninterrupted in all directions as the scenery unfolds below. After landing, and once the balloon is packed away, it’s time to celebrate in the traditional balloonist’s manner: with a glass of champagne.

 

Where?

There are approximately 60 launch sites around the UK:

Bath, Bristol & South Wales, Berkshire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire ( Oxford), & Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire & Oxfordshire (Banbury)

Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset & Wiltshire, Derbyshire, Cheshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire Warwickshire & Worcestershire, Essex, Kent & Sussex, Lothians & Kinross, Norfolk & Suffolk

 

When?

The ballooning season runs from March to October; however this may vary slightly depending on the launch site. A few sites do operate through the winter months but flights are less frequent.

We recommend you book at least four weeks in advance to ensure that dates are available before the expiry date listed on the voucher. This is only a guideline and we advise you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. You must book and take your experience before the expiry date. All bookings are subject to availability.

 

Restrictions?

There is no upper age limit but passengers must be agile enough to climb in and out of the basket which is 1.1m high and to stand for around an hour.

Children must be at least 8 years old and 1.4m high.

Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult .

In the interests of safety and operational requirements the maximum weight is 18 stones (114kg). This activity is not suitable for pregnant women.

 

What about the weather?

Ballooning requires good stable weather, light winds and good visibility. For this reason most flights are scheduled for just after dawn or just before dusk - although take off time will vary depending on the time of year.
In the event that your flight is cancelled due to bad weather, the balloon operator will make alternative arrangements with you for another date.
It is the pilot’s decision on all aspects of the flight.
Once you have activated your voucher you must attempt to take the flight at least 8 times within the same season. If you do not, an extension fee will be payable to the balloon operator.

 

When you buy a Virgin Experience Day direct from our website, you, or your chosen recipient, will receive a gift pack and voucher with all the information needed to book the experience. A personalised message card will be included if you are giving it as a gift. Please tick the personalisation option above and complete details.