Seaplane flights have South West in sights

A new tourism venture will fly tourists on one-day return trips from the Swan River to Margaret River for winery tours and sightseeing.

Tour operator Swan River Seaplanes will fly groups of 12 tourists at low altitude over the WA coast, landing at Margaret River airstrip.

Top Drop Tours owner Chris O’Hare will run the local tours and said the venture added to Margaret River’s acclaim as a tourist destination.

“We think it’s just going to tick a lot of boxes for a lot of people,” he said.

“It’s about showcasing Margaret River at its best, not at its most.”

Mr O’Hare said the flight would show tourists Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park, Sugarloaf Rock, and Cape Naturaliste.

Premier and Tourism Minister Colin Barnett attended the first take-off on Monday and said it added to Perth’s growing list of tourist attractions.

“For those who are time poor or just want to experience a bit of luxury and see our southern coast in a different way, Swan River Seaplanes is a unique offering that I’m sure will prove very popular,” he said.

Tickets for the tours cost $795 per person with wine tours and lunch included.