Blue Hawaiian---Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Has anyone been on this tour and was it worth the money? (about $350-400) Is there really a big difference between the A-star helicopter (cheaper) vs the Eco-Star?

We are mostly interested in the volcano and water fall aspect of the tour----so was wondering how the trip fares out for those two things....many thanks!

Blue Hawaiian---Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Island_Travel1,

Not with Blue Hawaii, but I did do the Hawaii Experience with Paradise out of Kona. I would recommend the circle island for the helo tour on the BI since it is a much better value than shorter flights from Hilo. The main difference between Blue Hawaii and Paradise is the helos used by Paradise do not need to refuel in Hilo, so it is a non-stop 2 hour flight. BH lands and refuels in Hilo, which also gives passengers a much needed potty break.

The difference between the A star and the Eco star is primarily the seating arrangement. The Eco has theater style seating, with the rear seats higher than the front, and panoramic glass. It is also a larger interior than the A star. It is also a bit quieter, but honestly an average person in the chopper will not likely notice the difference.

All flights over the volcano fly basically the same route, for the same amount of time, at the same height. It is fairly regulated. The real difference is once the flight path goes up the Hamakua coast, the lush rainforest and deep ravines with streams and waterfalls is spectacular. Then in the Kohala Mountains the flight enters the valley, flies into the keyhole and in this cathedral of cascading water, over 2000 feet all around is an amazing experience. It was an incredible flight.

Good luck and happy travels!

Blue Hawaiian---Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

We did this tour with Blue Hawaiian in 2005. The volcano and the waterfalls are the highlight of the flight. We did the Circle of Fire tour in 2003, which goes out of Hilo and hits the volcano, and goes right back.

We did see alot more of the volcano with the BI Spectacular, and the North Shore is jaw-dropping. You have to see it to believe it.

I didn%26#39;t know the price when we did it--my hubby booked it as a surprise. I have to admit I was surprised at the price when I found out what it was (after we landed). But, after getting over the sticker shock, I was glad we did it.

I don%26#39;t think we were given a choice on the type of helicopter--it was the Eco-Star.