Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance Flight – 50mins

If you’re looking for a short but unforgettable helicopter trip in the South Island of New Zealand, the Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance Flight offers a compelling mix of scenery, history, and a dash of spirits. Priced at $362 per person, this 50-minute flight whisks you over some of the country’s most iconic sights—glaciers, towering mountains, and even a filming location for The Lord of the Rings—all capped off with a snow landing on the Shackleton Glacier and a complimentary shot of Shackleton whiskey.

What truly sets this experience apart are the stunning panoramic views and the opportunity to stand among glaciers, combined with stories of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Antarctic expedition. Plus, the guided commentary from experienced pilots makes it far more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a brief but meaningful journey into the landscape and history of the Southern Alps.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency of helicopter flights. If the weather turns sour, routes may change or the flight could be canceled altogether, so flexibility is key. This tour suits travelers who value authentic, scenic experiences with a touch of storytelling and don’t mind packing warm clothes and cameras for a quick but memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Franz Josef, Tasman Glaciers, and Mount Cook
• Snow landing on Shackleton Glacier for photos and exploration
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of the landscape and history
• Includes Shackleton whiskey sample on the glacier, inspired by Antarctic explorer’s enduring spirit
• Weather dependent, so flexibility is advised
• Suitable for those who want a short, scenic adventure with an authentic touch

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance Flight

We’ll admit, a helicopter ride is not something you do every day. This particular tour is designed to be a highlight-reel of the South Island’s glaciers and mountains, with the added thrill of landing on a glacier and sampling a piece of Antarctic history. It’s a compact experience, but one packed with visual and narrative richness.

The Itinerary and Experience: From Check-In to Landing

You’ll meet your guide at the Glacier Country Helicopters office, conveniently located opposite the police station and next to the Blue Ice Restaurant in Franz Josef. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll transfer to a private hangar where your helicopter awaits. This initial step is smooth, and the staff are friendly—making the process feel more like a well-organized adventure than a bureaucratic checkpoint.

Once onboard, you’ll put on your headset and chat with your pilot, who will share insights into the scenery below and the history of Sir Ernest Shackleton. The pilot’s commentary really enhances the experience—expect to learn about the glaciers, the mountain peaks, and the filming location for the “Lighting of The Beacons” scene in The Lord of the Rings. The flight duration is around 50 minutes, which feels just right—the perfect balance between sightseeing and not overcommitting your day.

The Flight Path: Glaciers, Mountains, and Movie Sets

Your journey begins with a flight over the impressive Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers—two of New Zealand’s most famous ice rivers. The views of these massive, icy formations are awe-inspiring, especially considering how close you can get in a helicopter. Mount Cook and Mount Tasman come into view, towering over the landscape, providing a backdrop that’s as dramatic as it is beautiful.

As you ascend into the Southern Alps, your pilot will point out filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, especially the “Lighting of The Beacons” scene. It’s fun to recognize the landscape from movies and picture how these wild vistas became part of cinematic history.

The Highlight: Snow Landing on Shackleton Glacier

The real wow moment comes with the 15-minute snow landing on Shackleton Glacier. You’ll disembark onto the icy surface, where you can walk around, take photos, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The glacier’s surface is a mosaic of blue ice and snow, and standing there feels like stepping into an entirely different world. It’s a rare chance to physically be on a glacier, especially in the company of experts who can answer your questions.

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Sampling Shackleton Whiskey

As a thoughtful touch, you’ll be offered a complimentary shot of Shackleton Whiskey—a tip of the hat to Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary endurance. The whiskey is served with glacial ice, making for a memorable tasting experience that connects the spirit of exploration with the icy landscape. Several reviews mention how this personal element adds a unique flavor to the tour, making it more than just sightseeing.

Wrap-up and Return

After your glacier walk and whiskey tasting, the helicopter will lift off again, giving you different angles and views on your way back. The entire experience, from check-in to return, lasts about 50 minutes, which is perfect for travelers wanting a condensed but rich adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

Two things stand out. First, the guided commentary from the pilot makes the flight educational as well as scenic. It’s clear that the pilots are knowledgeable, sharing stories and facts that deepen our appreciation for the landscape and history. Second, the glacier landing gives you an authentic, hands-on experience that photos simply can’t do justice to. Walking on the ice is a privilege that makes the whole trip feel more real and memorable.

One Consideration: Weather and Flexibility

The main caveat is the weather dependence. If clouds roll in or wind picks up, the flight route might change or the flight could be canceled at short notice. You’ll want to keep your schedule flexible and be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellations. The tour operators do a good job of communicating this upfront, and the full refund option is available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who are looking for a short, scenic adventure that combines stunning landscapes with a dash of history and storytelling. It’s ideal for those who enjoy viewing natural wonders from the air, want an authentic glacier experience, and appreciate a bit of local culture and spirit through the whiskey tasting. Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and there are weight considerations for certain seats.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $362, you’re paying for a high-quality, all-in-one experience: breathtaking views, glacier exploration, and a taste of history. The flight alone offers some of the best panoramas of New Zealand’s glaciers and mountains, but the added glacier landing and whiskey tasting elevate it into a memorable adventure.

If you value a professional, knowledgeable pilot, scenic beauty, and the chance to stand on a glacier, this tour delivers. It’s a fantastic way to tick off a bucket list item—seeing glaciers up close—without taking hours out of your day. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a quick, impactful experience that combines adventure, scenery, and storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, helicopter flights depend on good weather. Routes can change or be canceled if conditions aren’t safe, so flexibility and checking the weather forecast are wise.

How long does the entire experience last?
The whole process, including check-in, briefing, flight, glacier landing, and return, takes about 50 minutes.

Do I need to bring anything?
Warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. A mask or protective covering is also advised.

Are there any restrictions for participants?
Wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour. Passengers over 120kg may need to purchase a Comfort Seat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the safety briefing, helicopter tour, experienced pilot, guided commentary, headset, and landing fees.

Can I cancel at short notice?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, making it flexible in case of sudden weather changes.

How many people can be on the helicopter?
While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, the experience is designed for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and better photo opportunities.

Is the whiskey sample available on all flights?
Yes, a complimentary Shackleton Whiskey sample with glacial ice is included as part of the experience.

To sum it up, the Shackleton Glacier Whiskey Endurance Flight offers a well-rounded taste of New Zealand’s majestic glaciers, mountains, and wilderness. It’s perfect for those who seek a brief but impactful adventure, enjoy spectacular scenery, and have a fascination with explorers and their stories. With knowledgeable guides and a unique glacier landing, it’s an experience that sticks with you long after you leave the icy landscape behind.

You can check availability for your dates here: