Why Flying to Heron Island by Helicopter is Pure Magic
Jenny Revesz • September 24, 2025
Why Flying to Heron Island by Helicopter is Pure Magic
There are two ways to arrive at Heron Island — by boat or by helicopter. I’ve now experienced the helicopter transfer, and let me tell you: this is hands down the way to do it.
Instead of a long, sometimes choppy boat ride across open water, the helicopter makes the journey part of the adventure. From the air, the view is breathtaking. You sweep across the Great Barrier Reef itself, spotting coral cays, turquoise lagoons, and maybe even manta rays or turtles gliding just below the surface. It’s like getting a private aerial tour of one of the most extraordinary natural wonders on earth.
Landing directly on the island feels like a grand entrance — no seasickness, no travel fatigue, just excitement and awe. Within minutes, you’re stepping off the helicopter and straight into paradise, ready to dive into reef life.
For me, that’s the magic: arriving by helicopter sets the tone for the whole stay. It’s smooth, scenic, and absolutely unforgettable — the perfect beginning to a Heron Island escape.
When Tourism Australia invited me to experience Tasmania for the very first time, I was curious but didn’t realize just how much this small island would leave such a mighty impression. Tasmania may be compact, but it is bursting with wild beauty, incredible food and wine, and some of the most genuinely welcoming people I’ve ever met. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was being let in on a secret—one that I couldn’t believe had taken me this long to discover. There were so many standout moments. I adored my time at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, which I loved with a passion. Meeting the animals, hearing their stories, and witnessing the dedication to conservation was something I’ll never forget. From there, the experiences just kept layering on: exploring the historic charm of Richmond, enjoying a long lunch and wine tastings at Mayfield Estate , visiting the breathtaking Saffire Freycinet and Cape Tourville Lighthouse, and taking a circumnavigation cruise of Maria Island , which was pure magic. Food and culture surprised me, too. One evening I sat down to an incredible meal at the Leatherwood Bar & Kitchen , another day I immersed myself in the heritage of Curringa Farm , and I was deeply moved while touring the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site , which told a powerful and emotional story of Tasmania’s past. For a fun twist, I took the MONA ferry in the “Posh Pit,” sipping bubbles on the way to MONA itself—a museum unlike anywhere else in the world. I also toured MACq 01 , where the storytelling experience of “Hidden Hobart” brought the city’s layers of history to life. And thanks to a fortunate schedule change, I had an extra day to wander the Salamanca Market —a feast for the senses and such a joy to explore. What struck me most was how easy it is to get around. Driving is straightforward, and within short distances you can go from heritage towns to pristine national parks, from cutting-edge art to remote coastlines. Tasmania makes you slow down, savor, and connect—with the land, the people, and yourself. Tasmania surprised me because it offered far more than I imagined. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience that’s refined yet raw, intimate yet vast, and above all, welcoming. I left wondering why it had taken me so long to visit, and I know it won’t be my last time.
In August I had the absolute privilege of escorting a wonderful group through Tanzania — and what a trip it was! From Tarangire to the Ngorongoro Crater and then up to the Serengeti for the Great Migration, every single day gave us moments I’ll carry with me forever. Tarangire welcomed us with its beautiful baobab trees and wide-open landscapes, and right away we were spoiled with incredible wildlife. A real highlight was spotting a cheetah with her three little cubs — such a special sight. At Craters Edge, the magic didn’t stop. One night we had an elephant wander right through camp! Waking up and realizing just how close we were to these giants of Africa was equal parts thrilling and humbling. Then came the Serengeti — and what timing. We were there to witness the largest river crossing of the year in Kogatende. To stand there, watching thousands of wildebeest plunge into the river, knowing that every calf has its own call so it can find its mother again if they’re separated — it was emotional, powerful, and something none of us will ever forget. And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, our final sundowner turned into one last surprise: the wildebeest migration came thundering right past us. Pure magic. But it wasn’t only about the wildlife. Our walking safari, with the rangers and guides keeping us safe, gave us such a different perspective of the bush. And the warmth of the camp staff — singing to us, caring for us, making us feel part of their family — left us all a little teary when it was time to say goodbye. For me, the very best part was watching my clients live these moments for themselves — their excitement, their laughter, and the way they completely embraced the adventure. Seeing them fall in love with Tanzania made my heart so full. This trip was everything I hoped it would be and more. I’m already counting down until I can return.
