Ready for a proper Top End day out? You’re not choosing between a scenic flight and a pub crawl — you get both in one wild adventure. ✨
Since 2007, this iconic tour has been flown by a trusted operator and ranks as one of the Top 10 things to do in the city. You’ll land like a VIP at classic watering holes, meet publicans and hear tall tales before lifting off for the next stop.
From the air you’ll see the harbour, coastline and wetlands, and on the ground you’ll step straight into a cold beer and local banter. Tours run half or full day with set departure windows and multiple pub line-ups, so you can plan a group day out without surprises.
Quick heads-up: lunch and drinks are usually not included, so you pick what you want at each stop. If you’re keen, check availability and book early — this heli pub crawl fills fast for weekends and groups.
Key Takeaways
- A combined scenic flight and pub crawl makes for a unique Top End experience.
- Operating since 2007 and widely recognised as a must-do activity.
- See harbour, coastline and wetlands; land at iconic local venues.
- Tours are half or full day with set departure times.
- Food and drinks usually cost extra — you choose what to buy.
- Great for mates, groups or anyone after an adventurous, VIP-style day out.
Why a heli pub crawl is the ultimate Top End adventure
Imagine roaring in from the sky, stepping out with sand under your boots and instant Territory hospitality waiting. This is equal parts adrenaline, landscape and laid-back charm, all wrapped into one unforgettable day.
Rock-star landings at iconic outback watering holes
Rotors slow, doors open, and you walk straight into a classic Top End pub like you own the joint. The moment feels theatrical — friendly faces, cold drinks and tall tales from charismatic publicans. It’s social magic with real Territory character.
Scenic flight views over harbour, wetlands and billabongs
Up top, the scenic flight reveals Darwin Harbour, sweeping coastline and wide wetland country. You’ll spot billabongs, winding creeks, termite mounds and tropical savannah woodlands — a patchwork you only really get from the air.
A must-do experience for locals, visitors and mates
Perfect for couples after something different, visitors short on time, locals celebrating or groups of mates chasing a legendary outing. You cover more ground, spend less time driving and get more doing. Next, we compare full day vs half day options and pub line-ups so you can pick your perfect plan.
helicopter pub crawl darwin tour options, times and inclusions
Pick full day or half day options to suit your crew, then choose morning or arvo departures. Each choice changes the pace, landing pattern and how much time you get at each venue.
Full day experience
The Original — 5 pubs, ~6.5 hours. Departs 9:30am and returns about 4:00pm. Expect roughly 45 minutes on the ground at each stop.
This option is best for groups who want a proper Top End day out with more sites and longer stops.
Half day — morning departures
Runs roughly 9:30am–1:00pm. Three stops, about 35 minutes each. Ideal if you have limited time or a cruise window.
Half day — afternoon departures
Runs roughly 1:30pm–5:00pm. Same format as morning. Perfect if you want a slow start then an arvo adventure.
Pub line-ups, timings and add-ons
| Option | Stops | Duration per stop | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full day | 5 | ~45 min | 9:30–4:00; Barramundi Adventures option (full day only) |
| Half day (AM) | 3 | ~35 min | 9:30–1:00; great for early finishes |
| Half day (PM) | 3 | ~35 min | 1:30–5:00; for a relaxed morning |
| Add-ons | Litchfield scenic | Varies | Waterfall landing/swim upgrades available |
“Arrive 45 minutes early, pack sun care and be ready to book any add-ons on the day.”
Practical info: lunch and drinks are excluded. The base is about 10 minutes by taxi from the city and there are no hotel transfers. To check availability or book, call 0429 775 555 — many tours run on request, so book early for groups and peak dates.
Top End pubs and stops you’ll visit on the flight
Here’s a quick guide to the iconic stops you’ll touch down at, and what makes each one worth the trip.
The Lodge of Dundee
What you’ll love: classic Top End atmosphere and a friendly welcome. Great first or early stop to settle in with a cold drink.
What to do: snap photos, order a feed and chat with locals. Stops vary by tour length, so timing can change.
Crab Claw Island Resort
What you’ll love: off-the-grid island vibe and resort setting — a proper only-in-the-Territory arrival.
What to do: enjoy the views, wander the jetty and soak up the island resort feel. Crab Claw Island is a signature stop on many line-ups.
Darwin River Tavern
What you’ll love: easy-going river tavern energy and wide, shady decks.
What to do: relax mid-route, refill with food and drinks, and trade stories before the next lift-off.
Goat Island Lodge
What you’ll love: remote and memorable — one of the most talked-about island lodge stops.
What to do: explore quick walks, take photos and enjoy the unique setting.
Noonamah Tavern and alternate final stops
What you’ll love: commonly the final venue on many routes and a solid wrap-up spot.
Note: full day tours may swap the last stop for Barramundi Adventures Darwin (subject to availability).
Quick practicals: stop durations depend on full- or half-day options and exact order varies by itinerary. To check line-ups or book, see our full booking page at helicopter pub crawl in Darwin.
Conclusion
If you’re after one proper day out that mixes spectacle with social time, this is it. The helicopter + pubs combo gives a compact, memorable story you can tell for years.
Choose your option: pick the full day for the complete hit-list, or a half day for the same thrill in a tighter window. The heli pub crawl suits celebrations or a mates’ getaway.
Quick reminders: arrive 45 minutes early, plan to pay for lunch and drinks, and organise your own taxi/Uber — the base is about 10 minutes from the city and there are no hotel transfers.
Group bookings fill fast. If Barramundi Adventures is on your list note it’s full-day only, landing subject to availability and not available Tuesdays (fishing is $60 pp payable on arrival; spectators free).
Full booking page or read a practical trip report before you go. Skim the FAQs to check what to bring and final timings — then lock in your day. 🍻
