Helicopter transfers in Fiji

Ever wonder how the other half live? I’m sure we all do, but the simple fact is, living like the other half is entirely possible in Fiji. Whether you’re staying at a mainland hotel or a remote island resort, chances are you’ll see or hear an Island Hoppers aircraft flying over you, ferrying passengers to their destinations.

They call it ‘resort transfers’ but after being surprised by just how affordable these transfers are and hopping aboard an Island Hoppers helicopter recently, I realised they are selling themselves short.

In a picturesque location such as Fiji, a flight from Nadi to a resort in the Mamanucas is not simply a transfer. It’s a sight seeing tour with the added bonus of going from point A to point B.

We were headed to Vomo Island Resort after a stay on Denarau island and booked a helicopter transfer. It included a private pick up from our hotel and a short drive (literally across the road – we could have walked!) to the helicopter ‘terminal’ on the Denarau Golf Course. After checking our bags in, our driver offered us a cool drink and updated our on-time departure.

The chopper arrived and the pilot disembarked to greet us. A young man with a thick Aussie accent talked us through the safety procedures, explained the life vests and helped us on board.

The last time my companion had been on a chopper it was mustering cattle in Queensland. This would prove to be a completely different experience.

We departed Denarau on time and flew over the island, the pilot pointing out all the other resorts and islands below us and the other aircraft we could see in the distance.

“That’s the world’s first island beach club down there – Malamala … and that’s Bounty and Beachcomber to the right and up ahead is Malolo – home to Six Senses, Malolo Island Resort and Likuliku.”

We flew over some of the most magical scenery, with yachts sailing below and closer to resort islands we could see Hobi Cats, SUPs and people snorkeling.

We arrived at our first stop, Tokoriki Island Resort where the pilot masterfully put the chopper down right on the end of the jetty. This really was something else, especially for my Outback Jack companion. Two more guests joined us and we were on our way.

The chopper had views in every direction with glass windows beside and above us. The commentary from the pilot was informative and fun and we didn’t want the trip to end.

Arriving at Vomo’s ‘airport’ the pilot landed gently and told us we were in for a great stay at one of Fiji’s best resorts. We waved him and his other two guests goodbye and realised there really is no other way to get from A to B in Fiji.

Island Hoppers offer scenic flights, joy flights and resort transfers. For more see their ad in this magazine.