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Frequently Asked Questions

Flying

  • What are the departure times for the flights?

    Our scenic flights are operated in the morning and our Fly & Dine flights depart in the late morning and early afternoon (times are subject to availability). Please call or e-mail us to confirm times and availability.

  • What happens if it rains on the day?

    To avoid disappointment, please keep in mind that flights only proceed if weather conditions are suitable. The decision to fly will be made by our Chief Pilot on the day based on the aviation forecast.

    Scenic Flights and Fly & Dine packages. In case we have to cancel the flight due to bad weather, we will contact you first thing in the morning and you will be able to get a full refund or reschedule your flight to another day.

    Overnight packages. We will arrange a car transfer to bring you to the hotel. We will fly you back the next day if the weather allows. You will be provided with scenic flights in credit in lieu of your missed flights. Unfortunately we will not be able to re-schedule your Overnight package to another date as the hotels require minimum 4 weeks’ notice for room cancellations.

  • Where do seaplanes depart from?

    We depart from our Seaplane Terminal in Lyne Park, Rose Bay. It is at the same location as Empire Lounge Sydney, just a few steps from Rose Bay Ferry Wharf.

  • Can you hold the seats for me?

    Unfortunately we aren’t able to hold seats or place tentative bookings. Full payment is required to confirm the booking. Please see our Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policy to find out about re-scheduling and refunds.

  • How many people will be on the seaplane?

    Our flights are operated on shared basis. Our smaller De Havilland Beaver seaplanes can sit up to 6 passengers and our bigger Cessna Caravan seaplane – up to 10 passengers. The number of passengers varies from 2 to 10 depending on the day. If you would like to arrange a private charter, please contact us directly.

  • Are there age restrictions?

    People of all ages are welcome to fly with us. If you have an infant who has not turned 2 years old, he or she can travel for free on the lap of a parent.

  • Are pregnant women allowed on board?

    We take pregnant women on board however we recommend you consult the doctor prior to your flight.

Getting There

  • How do I get to Rose Bay?

    If you are coming from the City and not driving the following transport options are available:

    • Ferry from Circular Quay to Rose Bay Ferry Wharf – we recommend you check the timetable beforehand and allow 20-30 minutes for the trip.
    • Water Taxi from Circular Quay to the Seaplane Terminal (To add this to your online booking just check the box). To arrange Water Taxi please e-mail us to reservations@seaplanes.com.au or call us on 9388 1978.
    • Taxi/Uber from Sydney CBD – 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Is there parking?

    There is 2-4-hour car parking available right in front of Rose Bay Ferry Wharf and 2-4-12-hour parking available in Lyne Park, near Woollahra Sailing Club/Lyne Park Tennis Courts. You can also park along New South Head Road in Rose Bay.

  • Can you pick me up from Darling Harbour by seaplane?

    Our flights only depart from Rose Bay on Sydney Harbour but we will be happy to assist with arranging water taxi transfers from other locations on the Harbour (at extra cost).

Destinations

  • Which restaurant is the best?

    Every restaurant we fly to is amazing and unique in its own way. We encourage you to have a look at the restaurants’ websites for photos and menus to help you with decision making. Please do not hesitate to give us a call if you need some guidance.

  • What notice do you need for the bookings?

    There are no cut off times for the bookings and we are happy to accept last minute reservations given there’s availability. We recommend a few weeks’ notice for the weekend Fly & Dine bookings in summertime.

  • Can I make a booking for the Empire Lounge?

    Absolutely, you can make reservations over the phone or through the Empire Lounge website. If you are looking to book an event, please get in contact with our events team at events@empirelounge.com.au.