Classic Experience: Above it all
Napa Check-in Location
Available in English
Overview
Experience the “Classic Flight,” a legendary hot air balloon ride that promises an amazing adventure. This experience will grant you access to beautiful agricultural surroundings from a bird’s eye view.
Included
Included
Hot beverages, water, pastries, and snacks
Included
45 minutes – 1-hour Balloon Ride
Included
Transportation needed during the experience
Important information
Where do we fly and what do we see?
On most days, we launch from the historic grounds of the V Marketplace, Vintage 1870, in the heart of Yountville–a quaint rural village near the mid-point of the Napa Valley. As we rise above the valley floor, panoramic views open up of the Napa Valley Wine-growing region. To the north is the majestic Mt. St. Helena, to the west is the Mayacamas Mt. Range, and to the east is the sculptured terrain of the Vaca Range. With favorable winds aloft the balloons can climb to higher altitudes where we may catch a glimpse of the San Francisco skyline and even the majestic Sierras to the east. On Foggy mornings in Yountville, we have exclusive launch options located in northern Napa in the area of Pope Valley, a rural and relaxing escape.
How long does the whole experience last?
Due to the many variables in ballooning, we can only provide an estimate of the time you should plan to spend with us. Typically, you should expect to be with us for about 3-4 hours, excluding any shuttle service from your lodging. This includes check-in, balloon inflation, the flight, pack-up, transportation back from the landing site, and an optional ($37) leisurely sparkling toast with charcuterie at the Estate Yountville. We encourage our passengers to set aside enough time to fully enjoy the breathtaking hot air balloon experience without feeling rushed.
Why do we fly so early?
Napa hot air balloon rides (and pretty much all of Northern California) are always an early morning sport. We launch just after dawn when the winds are at their calmest and the temperatures are the coolest. We hope that the lovely light of the early morning and the special sounds that can only be heard before the rest of the world is awake make it worth it for our passengers to join us on this early morning adventure.
Where do we fly on foggy mornings?
Napa hot air balloon rides (and pretty much all of Northern California) are always an early morning sport. We launch just after dawn when the winds are at their calmest and the temperatures are the coolest. We hope that the lovely light of the early morning and the special sounds that can only be heard before the rest of the world is awake make it worth it for our passengers to join us on this early morning adventure. Napa Valley’s ground floor is the primary launch area for all hot air balloon companies. Fog (40% of mornings fog June – September months *2019) forces hot air balloon companies to launch outside of Napa Valley because of low visibility making flying unsafe. However, Napa Valley Aloft has exclusive rights to a viable alternate flight corridor in Napa Valley’s wine region Pope Valley, located Northeast of St. Helena. Pope Valley experiences a low percentage of fog because of its high elevation on the eastern base of Howell Mountain. Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides offers a beautiful flight launching from the Kimball Ranch.
Can you take a hot air balloon ride in San Francisco?
You won't be able to find hot air balloon rides directly in San Francisco due to the city's dense urban landscape, unpredictable weather conditions, and air traffic restrictions. Your best option is to drive up to Napa Valley, a part of the bay area that can provide exceptional hot air balloon tours. But you can see San Francisco during your flight on clear days.
Is commercial ballooning commercially regulated?
Yes. Our pilots are all FAA certified and our equipment is inspected regularly at FAA designated repair stations. Our insurance meets the requirements of the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for passenger travel in our ground vehicles is PUC-certified as required by law. We belong to several voluntary organizations which set standards for ballooning, including the Balloon Federation of America and the Professional Balloon Pilots Association of Napa County.
How high and long will we fly for?
The altitude will vary during the flight and depends on the wind conditions that day, average altitudes in our area are between 1,000 and 3,000 feet above the valley floor. Some of the flights may be at the treetop level. The pilots are skilled at providing you with a wonderful experience. Flights typically last about one hour but may last from 45 minutes to 1 hour. Pilots must take into account the wind speed, direction, and availability of landing sites. Each flight is unique.
Is ballooning appropriate for everyone?
Ballooning is a fun activity for people of almost any age. There are some individuals for whom ballooning isn’t appropriate and will be recommended not to fly: pregnant women, infants, or young children (less than six years of age) who are not tall enough (at least 48″) to see over the side of the basket, individuals who have done a recent deep scuba dive, and people suffering from chronic pain or have had recent major surgery. Passengers who are unable to stand during the entire flight (45 minutes – 1 hour) and walk on uneven ground to the transportation shuttles. Passengers must be able to adopt the bended knee seated landing position, have upper-body strength and flexibility to climb in and out of the baskets.
If you have a medical condition that could cause discomfort or be aggravated during the flight or have been advised to restrict your activity because of a medical condition, please consult your physician in advance and a medical doctor’s release will be required. Under the Federal Aviation Administration, all hot air balloon pilots have the duty of care for all passengers and can decide ultimately if someone is safely able to participate in the flight even with a doctor’s note. The final decision will be made on the morning of the flight. For additional questions, please contact our office at (707) 944-4400. Ballooning is best appreciated by those who have a sense of adventure.
If you have a medical condition that could cause discomfort or be aggravated during the flight or have been advised to restrict your activity because of a medical condition, please consult your physician in advance and a medical doctor’s release will be required. Under the Federal Aviation Administration, all hot air balloon pilots have the duty of care for all passengers and can decide ultimately if someone is safely able to participate in the flight even with a doctor’s note. The final decision will be made on the morning of the flight. For additional questions, please contact our office at (707) 944-4400. Ballooning is best appreciated by those who have a sense of adventure.
What should we wear & what should we bring?
Wear casual clothing, preferably in layers so that you can adjust to the warming temperatures as the morning progresses. Ladies are most comfortable in trousers, because of the need to climb in and out of the basket. Flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes are recommended. Some people like to wear a light hat or a ball cap. Sunglasses or binoculars are optional, but cameras are a must so that you can take amazing hot air balloon photos.
What safety measures do you have in place?
Napa Valley Aloft is fully committed to the safety of our passengers and employees. Our pilots are all FAA certified and have over 100 years and 20Khours of combined experience. Our equipment is inspected regularly at FAA-designated repair stations.
We have a Professional Rides Operation(PRO) credit reflecting our impeccable piloting and decision-making. All PRO Operators are fully licensed and insured. We belong to several voluntary organizations which set standards for ballooning, including the Balloon Federation of America and the Professional Balloon Pilots Association of Napa County.
We have a Professional Rides Operation(PRO) credit reflecting our impeccable piloting and decision-making. All PRO Operators are fully licensed and insured. We belong to several voluntary organizations which set standards for ballooning, including the Balloon Federation of America and the Professional Balloon Pilots Association of Napa County.
Is there a shuttle service?
We provide complimentary shuttle service to our Napa Valley hot air balloon passengers who are staying in the immediate Yountville area.
Shuttle service is also offered from select Napa, Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena for a fee of $20 per person. Please let us know when booking your reservation if you will require this service.
Shuttle service is also offered from select Napa, Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena for a fee of $20 per person. Please let us know when booking your reservation if you will require this service.
Highlights
More information
Imagine floating gently above the picturesque landscape, the world below transforming into a patchwork quilt of vibrant colors. Sharing this breathtaking view with friends and family, you create unforgettable memories. A hot air balloon ride offers a serene, otherworldly experience, bringing you closer to nature and each other, leaving you with a sense of wonder and tranquility.
Duration
Please set aside 3 -4 hours for the entire experience. This includes check-in, balloon inflation, flight, pack-up, and transportation back from the landing site.
About
Launch times vary throughout the year. Napa hot air balloon rides (and pretty much all Northern California) are always an early morning sport. We launch just after dawn when the winds are at their calmest and the temperatures are at their coolest.
Meeting Location: Begin your adventure in the heart of downtown Napa, at the Napa Valley Wine Train Station.
Welcoming Refreshments: Start your journey with a selection of hot beverages and delectable pastries, setting the perfect tone for your extraordinary experience.
Scenic Adventure: Embark on a memorable flight offering beautiful and natural landscapes. Discover the heart of agriculture from a new perspective and be amazed by its captivating patterns and breathtaking lengths.
*Please keep in mind that hot-air ballooning is a weather-related activity. All scheduled flights may be canceled due to unsafe flying conditions. Many days of clear and gorgeous weather may be unsuitable for hot air ballooning. Please keep this in mind when planning a special occasion, and always have a backup plan. Napa Valley Aloft Inc, Napa Valley Balloons, Balloons Above the Valley and its affiliates accept no financial or other liability for cancellations or interruptions caused by unsafe weather, insufficient bookings, or events beyond our control. For group reservations, exclusive flights, or general inquiries, please contact our office to confirm availability and pricing.