How much does a seat on a tourist flight cost?
The price for a same-day return seat in 2023 remains at $2,000.00* CAD (includes $394.65 fees and taxes - contact the company office for a breakdown of fees). There may be a small increase in seat cost in 2024, but that has not yet been determined.
Are there any seats left in 2023?
All of our flights in 2023 are sold out, but you may put your name on a cancellation list by sending us an e-mail with your contact info, dates you are available, and your weight.
When can I book for 2024?
As in previous years, early in the new year we will pulicize on this site and on our Facebook page the date in January when we will open for bookings. Starting at noon on that date, you may submit a request by e-mail to reserve your seat(s). We will then contact people in the order in which the e-mails were received; a deposit of $200 is required to finalize your booking. Seats go quickly, so be sure and put your request in promptly, but don't be early - only requests made after the opening time will be part of the booking queue!
What information do you need when I make a booking request?
There is no form for you to fill out, you just need to let us know your preferred date, with any alternate dates that would also be acceptable and the number of seats. We also need everyone's name, e-mail address, phone number, and weight (dressed for the day, including footwear but not a backpack - see the section below for why we need this information).
Do I need to contact Parks Canada for permission to visit?
No, you do not need to contact Parks Canada, we do that on your behalf. After you have reserved with us, we will forward your name and e-mail address to Parks Canada, and they will contact you a week before the flight with additional information on your visit.
When is payment due?
A $200/seat deposit is required to book; payment in full must be made 60 days prior to the flight and becomes non-refundable at that time unless cancelled by us due to weather, beach condition, etc. Although non-refundable, seats are fully transferrable to another person. We recommend trip cancellation insurance if this is a concern, but in any case, please let us know if you are within that 60 days and encounter a problem, and we will do our best to help you resolve the issue.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, e-transfer, or credit card (Visa or Mastercard). Payment by credit card will incur a 3% processing fee. We value your security, so please call us if you want to pay by credit card; don't send your private information via e-mail - it is not secure.
How many people will be on the flight?
Our aircraft is configured to carry between 6 and 8 passengers so long as the weight limit is not exceeded (see next question).
Why do you need my weight?
The aircraft manufacturer has defined a maximum amount that the aircraft can safely and legally carry, so we will weigh everyone and everything that goes onto the flight to ensure that this value is not exceeded. Please be as accurate as possible when you book - hop on your bathroom scales dressed for the day. We promise to be discreet with this sensitive information.
Is there a limit on how much I can bring along in my backpack?
Strictly speaking, there is a 10 lb allotment of baggage per person, however, as usually happens, if the flight is not too close to its maximum weight we will increase the allotment for each person's pack. Fair warning - your pack will feel heavier as the day goes on, though!
Are there standards and/or compensation on the sale of individual seats?
If you are denied boarding due to situations within the carrier's control, or your baggage is lost or damaged, you may be entitled to certain standards of treatment and compensation under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations. For more information about passenger rights please contact our office or visit the Canadian Transportation Agency's website.
How long can we stay on the island?
Within the limits of daylight hours (departure from the island must occur prior to dark), we will try and give you 7-8 hours on the island; . On rare occasions, changing weather may necessitate an earlier departure.
Is this a guided experience?
You will start your day with a 1-2 hour tour led by a Parks Canada staff member. This guided walk will provide you with an introduction to the flora and fauna of Sable Island, as well as providing you with vital information about navigating safely around the island. After that you are on your own for the rest of the day to explore the island's natural beauty.
What is the best time of the year to visit Sable?
Sable Island is amazing no matter when you visit, but some folks wonder what month has the best chance of the flight being successful. Weather is unpredictable in this area of the world, and the only constant on Sable is change. May through July (or even mid-August) is known to local pilots as "fog season", July and August may be too dry for the beach to be landable, and September and October are hurricane season.
The temperatures on Sable Island tend to lag those on the mainland, so dressing in layers is always a good idea. June can be chilly, but summer can be quite hot with the high humidity; fall tends to remain mild.
Is there a minimum age limit for the trip?
Due to seat configuration and limitations on safety equipment, we cannot carry children under 2 years old. That being said, Sable Island is a backcountry-like experience and a long day - we do not recommend this trip for children under the age of 12.
What about a maximum age?
The day is very long, and walking in soft sand requires a certain mobility - this trip may not be suitable for everyone. We will not dictate an age limit since everyone is different, but in the past we have had seniors who were simply not prepared to spend all day on the island. If in doubt, we'd be happy to discuss it with you.
Can I rent a vehicle or get a ride somewhere?
All guests are driven from the aircraft to Main Station, and back to the aircraft again at the end of the day. Other than that, there is no option to be driven to other locations or to rent a vehicle.
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