Hot Air Balloon Rides in Melbourne | Liberty Balloon Flights
Hot Air Balloon Rides in Melbourne

An Aerial City Like No Other

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Awake Above Melbourne

There’s nothing quite like watching Melbourne wake up from the quiet calm of a hot air balloon. At sunrise, the city is bathed in soft light, the Yarra River glistens, and iconic landmarks like the MCG, Australian Open Tennis Centre, and Royal Botanic Gardens slowly come to life.

Liberty Balloon Flights offers year-round balloon experiences over Melbourne, with the main season running from November to May. Flight paths vary depending on wind conditions, offering a dynamic and unique view every time. Launch sites may include Williamstown, Albert Park, or Moorabbin, with landings often in the city’s leafy eastern suburbs or scenic parks like Royal Park.

These flights provide a calm and awe-inspiring way to experience the city from a completely new perspective. It’s not about speed or adrenaline - it’s about floating gently and taking it all in.

“You don’t just ride a balloon. You float in wonder.” – Original

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Arrival & Welcome

Our flight experiences begin early, to make the most of sunrise – the calmest and safest time of day for ballooning. Passengers meet about 1.5 hours before dawn at our designated meeting point at beautiful Hotel Windsor, where your pilot and ground crew will greet you with a warm welcome.

As you sign in, feel free to ask questions, use the available facilities, and enjoy a brief introduction to the fascinating history of ballooning. A clear pre-flight briefing will ensure you know exactly what to expect during your adventure in the sky.

Journey to the Launch Site

Next, hop aboard our comfortable vehicles as we head out to the morning’s launch site, carefully selected by your pilot based on the wind and weather conditions. With years of experience and many locations to choose from, your pilot will find the most suitable launch site to ensure the best flight path.

When we arrive, you’ll see the balloon laid out, ready to come to life. Watching the envelope inflate and rise is a beautiful spectacle in itself – and if you’d like, you’re welcome to help with the setup. Alternatively, stand back and take in the starlit sky, knowing you’re among the first to witness the day unfold. A safety briefing is delivered here, so you’re completely prepared for launch, flight, and landing.

The Flight

As the first light of day breaks across the horizon, your balloon gently lifts off the ground. The sensation is smooth, almost surreal – there’s no feeling of motion or speed, just the peaceful glide of drifting with the wind.

You may float just above treetops and buildings, catching glimpses of the city waking up, or rise to heights of 2,000 feet or more, where the world below is filled with patterns and movement. Have your camera ready – this is a view you’ll never forget. Each flight is unique, guided by nature, and perfectly timed to showcase the city landscape in its best light. You can expect to be in the air for approximately 1 hour.

Landing & Pack-Up

Every landing is a little different, and that’s part of the adventure. In calm conditions, the basket may gently touch down upright; with a bit more breeze, the basket might tip on its side – both are completely normal and safe and often met with laughter.

Our ground crew will be there to meet you and assist with the pack-down. If you’re fit and up for it, you can help deflate the balloon, squishing the air out and rolling it up – it’s a fun and hands-on way to wrap up the flight.

Celebration Breakfast (If you have selected this option)

Back at Hotel Windsor, your morning continues with a delicious gourmet breakfast, where you can relax, unwind, and share your stories with fellow adventurers. It’s a wonderful way to end your journey – over good food, warm company, and the satisfaction of doing something truly special.

For many, this is more than a bucket-list moment. It’s a peaceful pause, a new perspective, and a memory to cherish forever.

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Arrival & Welcome

Our flight experiences begin early, to make the most of sunrise – the calmest and safest time of day for ballooning. Passengers meet about 1.5 hours before dawn at our designated meeting point at beautiful Hotel Windsor, where your pilot and ground crew will greet you with a warm welcome.

As you sign in, feel free to ask questions, use the available facilities, and enjoy a brief introduction to the fascinating history of ballooning. A clear pre-flight briefing will ensure you know exactly what to expect during your adventure in the sky.

Melbourne_Launch-Site_big.jpg

Journey to the Launch Site

Next, hop aboard our comfortable vehicles as we head out to the morning’s launch site, carefully selected by your pilot based on the wind and weather conditions. With years of experience and many locations to choose from, your pilot will find the most suitable launch site to ensure the best flight path.

When we arrive, you’ll see the balloon laid out, ready to come to life. Watching the envelope inflate and rise is a beautiful spectacle in itself – and if you’d like, you’re welcome to help with the setup. Alternatively, stand back and take in the starlit sky, knowing you’re among the first to witness the day unfold. A safety briefing is delivered here, so you’re completely prepared for launch, flight, and landing.

Melbourne_The-Flight_big.webp

The Flight

As the first light of day breaks across the horizon, your balloon gently lifts off the ground. The sensation is smooth, almost surreal – there’s no feeling of motion or speed, just the peaceful glide of drifting with the wind.

You may float just above treetops and buildings, catching glimpses of the city waking up, or rise to heights of 2,000 feet or more, where the world below is filled with patterns and movement. Have your camera ready – this is a view you’ll never forget. Each flight is unique, guided by nature, and perfectly timed to showcase the city landscape in its best light. You can expect to be in the air for approximately 1 hour.

Melbourne_Landing_big.jpg

Landing & Pack-Up

Every landing is a little different, and that’s part of the adventure. In calm conditions, the basket may gently touch down upright; with a bit more breeze, the basket might tip on its side – both are completely normal and safe and often met with laughter.

Our ground crew will be there to meet you and assist with the pack-down. If you’re fit and up for it, you can help deflate the balloon, squishing the air out and rolling it up – it’s a fun and hands-on way to wrap up the flight.

Melbourne_Celebration_big.webp

Celebration Breakfast (If you have selected this option)

Back at Hotel Windsor, your morning continues with a delicious gourmet breakfast, where you can relax, unwind, and share your stories with fellow adventurers. It’s a wonderful way to end your journey – over good food, warm company, and the satisfaction of doing something truly special.

For many, this is more than a bucket-list moment. It’s a peaceful pause, a new perspective, and a memory to cherish forever.

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General Safety and Suitability

  • 01

    How safe is ballooning?

    Ballooning is widely considered one of the safest forms of aviation when operated by experienced, licensed pilots – and that’s exactly what we offer. At Liberty Balloon Flights, safety is our highest priority. All flights are conducted by CASA-certified commercial pilots, using equipment maintained to strict Australian aviation standards.

  • 02

    Is there an upper age limit or health restrictions?

    There is no set upper age limit – many of our passengers are in their 70s or 80s and absolutely love the experience! However, ballooning does require a basic level of mobility. Passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight (approximately one hour), climb in and out of the basket unassisted, and follow safety instructions.

  • 03

    Can children fly?

    Yes, children aged 6 years and older are welcome to fly. They must be tall enough (generally over 120cm) to see over the side of the basket and be accompanied by a responsible adult.

  • 04

    Is ballooning suitable for babies and young children?

    Unfortunately, ballooning is not suitable for babies or children under the age of 6 due to safety regulations and the nature of the experience.

  • 05

    Can you accommodate people with disabilities?

    This depends on the individual and the nature of the disability. We always want to make the experience as inclusive as possible, so we recommend giving us a call on 1800 BALLOON (22 55 66) to discuss your needs. We’ll do our best to accommodate you safely and comfortably.

  • 06

    If I am pregnant, can I go ballooning?

    For safety reasons, we are unable to fly passengers who are pregnant. We recommend waiting until after the baby arrives – then coming to celebrate with a peaceful morning flight!

Weather and Flight Conditions

  • 01

    Is ballooning weather dependent?

    Yes, ballooning is highly weather dependent. We only fly in safe and suitable conditions, and flights can be cancelled if winds are too strong, visibility is poor, or there’s rain in the area.

  • 02

    What happens if the weather is no good for my balloon flight?

    If we need to cancel due to weather, we’ll get in touch with you ASAP. In some cases, the evening before your flight (or occasionally early the morning of). You can then reschedule for another date that suits you – you’re booking or voucher will remain valid.

  • 03

    What times are balloon flights?

    All of our flights are at sunrise – this is when conditions are calmest and most stable for ballooning.

  • 04

    Why are balloon flights at sunrise?

    Sunrise is the safest and most beautiful time to fly. The winds are gentle, the air is stable, and the landscapes are bathed in soft morning light – it’s truly the best time for ballooning.

  • 05

    What time of year is best to fly?

    We fly all year round! In Victoria, our peak season runs from November to May. In Western Australia’s Avon Valley, the ballooning season is April to early November, as summer conditions are too hot and windy for safe flying.

  • 06

    How do you steer a balloon?

    Hot air balloons don’t have steering wheels – your pilot uses different wind layers at different altitudes to guide the balloon. It’s part of the magic of ballooning and why every flight is a little different.

  • 07

    Do balloons take off and land from the same place?

    No, balloons travel with the wind, so we launch and land in different locations. Our crew follows the balloon from the ground and meets us at the landing site to return you to the meeting point.

What to Expect During a Flight

  • 01

    How high will the balloon go?

    Depending on weather conditions, balloons can fly up to 2,000 feet (600 metres) or more. At times, we also fly low to take in the scenery just above the treetops.

  • 02

    How long does the balloon flight take?

    The flight itself lasts about one hour, but the full experience – including travel time, setup, pack-up, and breakfast – takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours, or 7 to 7.5 hours for flights including the Perth or Yarra Valley transfer service.

  • 03

    How far do the balloons fly?

    We usually cover 5 to 20 kilometres, depending on wind speed and direction.

  • 04

    Do you feel height sick or vertigo in a balloon?

    Surprisingly, no! Most people don’t feel height sick in a balloon because there’s no motion like in a plane or elevator. The basket feels steady and secure, and the experience is incredibly peaceful.

  • 05

    Is it cold in a balloon during a flight?

    It can be chilly before sunrise, especially in winter, but once airborne, the burners provide warmth. We recommend dressing in layers, like you would for a very early morning walk.

  • 06

    What should I wear?

    Wear comfortable outdoor clothing – no special gear is required. Sturdy shoes (like runners or hiking shoes) are best. Avoid open-toed shoes and heels. A hat or cap can be helpful for warmth and burner heat.

  • 07

    Do I need to put my phone on airplane mode?

    No need to switch to airplane mode. You’re welcome to take photos and video during your flight – but we recommend holding on tightly!

Flight Logistics and Information

  • 01

    How do I know whether my flight is going ahead?

    We’ll send you a confirmation message the night before your flight (or earlier if weather is looking great) with meeting time, location, and weather updates. If weather isn’t suitable, we’ll notify you and help you reschedule.

  • 02

    What should I bring with me?

    Bring your sunglasses, a camera or phone to capture the views, and a good sense of adventure! Just dress for the weather and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable morning in the sky.

  • 03

    Where can I park on the morning of the flight?

    Each of our meeting points has designated parking nearby, and we’ll provide those details in your pre-flight confirmation message.

  • 04

    What is the approximate meeting time for sunrise flights?

    Meeting times vary by season but are usually around 1.5 hours before sunrise – typically between 4:30 a.m. (summer) and 6:30 a.m. (winter). Exact time is confirmed the night before.

  • 05

    What if I need to cancel or change my flight date?

    We understand that plans can change or that last-minute issues may arise. Please refer to our cancellation policy outlined in our Terms and Conditions. If something unexpected happens, we’ll do our best to help you reschedule your flight.

  • 06

    What do I do if my flight is cancelled?

    If your flight is cancelled due to weather, you’ll be able to reschedule for another available date. Your booking or voucher remains valid for three years, so you’ll have plenty of time to join us.

Booking and Pricing

  • 01

    How much does it cost?

    Prices vary by location. You can view up-to-date pricing on our website booking page or contact us direct. We occasionally offer special seasonal promotions too!

  • 02

    Do you offer group discounts?

    Yes, group bookings of 6 or more passengers may be eligible for a discount. Get in touch with our team for more info.

  • 03

    When should I book?

    We recommend booking at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as flights often fill quickly.

  • 04

    Are afternoon flights available?

    No, all our flights operate at sunrise, which is the safest and most visually stunning time to fly.

  • 05

    Do you offer payment plans?

    We don’t have formal payment plans, but we’re happy to work something out with you. Just ensure the full balance is paid at least 7 days before your scheduled flight.

  • 06

    What forms of payment do you accept?

    We accept Visa, Mastercard, PayPal and EFT, and our secure online booking system makes payment easy and safe.

Gift Vouchers

  • 01

    Can I purchase a gift voucher and how long is it valid for?

    Absolutely! Our gift vouchers are valid for three years, giving your recipient plenty of time to book. They can be purchased online and delivered straight to your inbox.

  • 02

    Can I use my gift voucher in a different location?

    Yes, most of our vouchers are location flexible, unless specified. If unsure, just contact us and we’ll be happy to clarify or adjust.

  • 03

    Is my gift voucher refundable?

    No, gift vouchers are non-refundable once redeemed. However, vouchers are fully transferrable and can be gifted to someone else if you’re unable to use it yourself.

Non-Flying Guests

  • 01

    Can extra people join me for breakfast?

    In most locations, yes – non-flying guests can join you for breakfast, for an additional charge. Let us know in advance so we can confirm space and details.

  • 02

    Can extra people watch from the launch site?

    Yes, friends and family are welcome to watch the setup and launch from a safe distance. It’s an early start, but a memorable experience even from the ground!

Balloon flights
in Geelong

Victoria
As we drift in a hot air balloon flight over or near Geelong, the morning landscape awakens, offering timeless views of Geelong's urban and rural scenes. Learn more about Balloon Flights in Geelong.

Balloon flights
in Perth (Avon Valley)

Western Australia
Experience the wonder of a sunrise balloon flight over Perth, the safest and most awe-inspiring time of day. Discover more about Balloon Flights in Perth.

Balloon flights
in Yarra Valley

Victoria
The Yarra Valley is one of Victoria’s most beloved destinations - and it’s even more spectacular from the sky. Known for its vineyards, gourmet food, and natural beauty, the valley becomes a peaceful, painterly landscape when viewed from a hot air balloon.