Flightseeing
Guided helicopter views of Cape George, the Mabou Highlands, Cape Breton Highlands, Margaree Valley and Lake Ainslie.
Cape Breton · Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Highlands
by Air & Sea
A rare perspective on one of the world’s most beautiful islands—from the sweep of the Highlands to the wild Atlantic below.
From $3,750 CAD per person + HST
Duration10 hours
DepartureHalifax
Group sizeUp to 7 guests
TravelHelicopter + Zodiac
The expedition
Where mountains meet the sea.
By utilizing long-range helicopters and a high-powered rigid-inflatable boat, we are able to show you the Cape Breton Highlands in a way few have the opportunity to experience. What would normally require several days unfolds in one extraordinary, fully guided journey.
Fly over Cape George, the Mabou Highlands, beaches, rivers and the bends of the Cabot Trail. From Pleasant Bay, take to the water in search of whales, seals and seabirds while exploring towering cliffs, sea caves, quiet coves and hidden beaches.
Your route at a glance
One journey. Air and sea.
Fly from Halifax via Port Hawkesbury, following Cape Breton’s coastline to Pleasant Bay. Cruise south and southwest along the shore by Zodiac, with a lunch stop before returning. The return flight follows the coast before turning inland over Lake Ainslie to Port Hawkesbury and Halifax.
Expedition film
See the journey unfold.
Experience Cape Breton’s dramatic Highlands and wild coastline from the air and sea.
Watch on YouTube ↗Expedition highlights
One remarkable day. Two wild perspectives.
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Wildlife encounters
Search for whales, seals, seabirds and birds of prey with experienced local captains and guides.
Hidden coastline
Enter sea caves and quiet coves, with a beach landing when tide and sea conditions permit.
Whale interpretation
Visit the Pleasant Bay Whale Interpretive Centre and listen for whales using an onboard hydrophone.
Picnic lunch
Enjoy a delicious picnic in a secluded cove or another beautiful location selected for the day’s conditions.
Expert guidance
Ecological, geological and cultural interpretation throughout a fully hosted experience from Halifax.
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Through the lens10 photos · Scroll to explore · Click to enlarge
Your day
A thoughtfully paced itinerary.
Depart downtown Halifax.
Meet your guide at the heliport for orientation and a helicopter safety briefing.
Depart Halifax, flying over Antigonish, Cape George, Port Hood, the Mabou Highlands, Chéticamp and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Arrive in Pleasant Bay and enjoy a guided introduction at the Whale Interpretive Centre.
Depart by high-powered Zodiac to search for wildlife and explore coves, sea caves, beaches and dramatic cliffs.
Return to Pleasant Bay harbour and make the short walk back to the helicopter.
Fly across the Highland Plateau, Margaree Valley and Lake Ainslie on the return journey.
Land in Halifax.
Return to your Halifax hotel if onward transportation has been arranged.
Times and routing are approximate and may be adjusted for weather, wildlife activity and sea conditions.
What’s included
Everything essential.
- Guided helicopter tour from Halifax
- Private, guided high-powered Zodiac expedition
- Admission to the Pleasant Bay Whale Interpretive Centre
- Hydrophone experience aboard the Zodiac
- Delicious picnic lunch
- Waterproof Zodiac jackets when required
Airport transfers can be arranged through your hotel.
Not included
Plan ahead.
- Travel insurance — strongly recommended; see the cancellation policy below
- Guide gratuities
- Personal purchases and expenses
- Costs arising from weather disruption
- Outdoor clothing and footwear that may get wet
Before you reserve
Payment, cancellations & travel insurance.
Final payment is due 90 days before departure. Please review these terms before booking.
Guest cancellations
More than 90 days before departure: Payments are refundable less an administration fee equal to 5% of the total tour price.
90 days or fewer before departure: Your booking is non-refundable.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended
Unexpected illness, personal circumstances or travel disruption can prevent you from joining your trip. Because bookings are non-refundable within 90 days of departure, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes trip-cancellation coverage.
Check that your policy covers your tour, travel arrangements and circumstances, including applicable exclusions and purchase deadlines. Insurance is purchased separately; reimbursement depends on your insurer’s policy.
If Kattuk cancels
If Kattuk Expeditions cancels the tour due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, your tour payments will be refunded in full.
This tour refund does not cover separately booked flights, accommodation or other travel expenses.
Private and small-group departures
From $3,750 CAD per person + HST
Two-person Bell 206 private departure: $9,950 CAD + HST.
Per-person pricing is based on minimum passenger requirements and is subject to confirmation.
Activity & preparation
Prepare for your Air & Sea adventure.
Review your tour documents for packing advice and practical preparation before departure.
Tour documents
Download tour documents for this adventure (PDF) ↗Packing and preparation guidance for your trip. Your latest booking email confirms meeting times and final departure arrangements.
Plan your expedition
A little more detail.
Save the Cape Breton Air & Sea brochure to browse at your leisure or share with a travel companion.
Begin your expedition
Ready to see Cape Breton differently?
Tell us your preferred dates, party size and travel plans. We’ll help you choose the right departure.
Contact Kattuk