The Island Express helicopter tours are 15 minutes long and the total cost for a one-way trip is $88, as of 2010. The total cost for a round trip ticket is $168 plus tax per person. Helicopters can carry between one and six passengers, depending upon each passenger's weight. The Island Express Helicopter Service is the fastest and most invigorating transportation to Catalina Island. The flight gives passengers the opportunity to gaze over the pods of dolphins and whales and offers exceptional views of the coast.
Passengers can enjoy tours of several parts of the island, including Emerald Bay, Two Harbors, Toyon Cove, Avalon Bay, Palisades, Silver Canyon, Middle Ranch and Little Harbor.
A tour of the entire island takes roughly 30 minutes; two-thirds of the island takes 20 minutes and a simple city/harbor area tour takes about 12 to 15 minutes. Experienced pilots point out natural features of the island during the tour, giving passengers the opportunity to take full advantage of the tour.
