What International Visitors Should Know About Ballooning Here

16 May

Planning a trip to Australia and thinking about a hot air balloon flight over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley?
Great choice — it’s one of the most peaceful and unforgettable ways to experience the country’s landscapes.

Here’s everything international visitors should know before they fly — from booking tips to what to expect on the morning of your flight.

1. You Don’t Need Any Experience

Hot air ballooning is suitable for almost everyone — no training, fitness test, or experience required.
Your pilot and ground crew will guide you through every step, from check-in to landing.

The only requirement is that passengers must be at least six years old and able to climb into the basket (about 120 cm high) unassisted.

2. The Early Start Is Worth It

All flights take place at sunrise, when the air is calm and the light is perfect.
Depending on the season, meeting times are usually between 4:30 am and 6:00 am.

It’s early, but it means you’ll watch the first light of day spread across the horizon — something most visitors say is the highlight of their trip.

3. Booking in Advance Is Recommended

Balloon flights are weather dependent, and seats fill quickly — especially on weekends and public holidays.
If you’re planning your holiday from overseas, it’s best to book two or more days in Melbourne or the Yarra Valley, so you have flexibility in case your flight is rescheduled due to weather.

4. Meeting Points and Transfers

Melbourne flights: Meet at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins (Collins Street).
Guests staying in CBD, Docklands, or Southbank can request hotel pickup.
Yarra Valley flights: Meet at Yarra Valley Lodge if you’re staying nearby, or add an optional return shuttle (extra cost) from the Sofitel in Melbourne.

All details are confirmed in your pre-flight text(SMS or WhatsApp) the afternoon before your flight.

5. What to Bring

Comfortable clothing similar to what you’d wear for a light outdoor walk.
Flat, closed-toe shoes (no heels or sandals).
A hat or cap — the burners can be warm above your head.
Your phone or camera for photos — but keep it secure during the flight.
A light jacket for cool mornings.

No special gear is needed, and all equipment is handled by your pilot and crew.

6. English Not Perfect? Don’t Worry

Our team welcomes passengers from all over the world.
Your pilot will give clear, friendly safety instructions, and our crew is used to assisting visitors who speak limited English.
If you have any questions or need help understanding directions, we’re happy to assist — safety and comfort always come first.

7. Payment, Vouchers & Travel Insurance

We accept major credit cards and international payment systems.
If you’ve booked through a travel agent or a gift-voucher platform (such as RedBalloon or Viator), please bring your voucher number or confirmation email.

Travel insurance isn’t required but is recommended for international visitors in case of unexpected weather cancellations or travel delays.

8. Weather & Rescheduling

Ballooning depends on safe flying conditions.
If strong winds or rain make flying unsafe, your flight may be rescheduled or fully refunded if you can’t fly another day.

Our pilots always make the final safety decision, and your understanding is greatly appreciated.

9. Celebrate After Your Flight

After landing, join us for an optional champagne breakfast — a long-standing ballooning tradition.
It’s a relaxed, social way to end the morning and chat with your pilot and fellow passengers before continuing your day.

10. Make the Most of Your Trip

Many of our international guests combine their balloon flight with:

A wine tour or lunch in the Yarra Valley.
A city brunch and sightseeing day after a Melbourne flight.
An overnight stay near Yarra Valley Lodge for convenience.

It’s an easy and unforgettable way to see more of Victoria — from the sky and from the ground.

Welcome to the Sky

Ballooning over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley is more than an activity — it’s a uniquely Australian experience: calm, natural, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Whether you’ve come from across the country or across the world, you’ll leave with memories that rise far above the ordinary.

✨ Visiting from overseas?

Book your Hot Air Balloon Flight today and discover why guests from every corner of the world call it the highlight of their Australian adventure.

INFO PTB