FRANZ JOSEF / WAIAU BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Shackleton’s Endurance: A 50‑Minute Helicopter Passage Over Three Glaciers and the Southern Alps
A private 50‑minute helicopter charter from Glacier Country Helicopters that visits Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton glaciers, includes a 15‑minute snow landing and a complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey.
Shackleton’s Endurance: A 50‑Minute Helicopter Passage Over Three Glaciers and the Southern Alps.
From Franz Josef / Waiau the Southern Alps open into a corridor of ice and peak: this private 50‑minute flight threads that corridor, sweeping past Franz Josef and Tasman, over Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, and onto the Shackleton Glacier for a short snow landing and a chance to taste Shackleton Whiskey with glacial ice.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three Glaciers and High Southern Peaks
The route takes in Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton glaciers, with views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman as you fly the spine of the Southern Alps.
Snow Landing and a Whiskey Sample
A 15‑minute snow landing on the Shackleton Glacier is included, and a complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey is offered to those who want to taste it with glacial ice.
Fly the 'Lighting of the Beacons' Route
The flight crosses sections of the Southern Alps that were used for the 'Lighting of The Beacons' scenes in Lord of the Rings, adding a cinematic layer to the alpine panoramas.
What the day feels like
What the Flight Feels Like
This private charter is a concentrated alpine traverse: a helicopter climbs from the West Coast, passes Franz Josef and Tasman glaciers, threads between high peaks including Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, and settles onto the Shackleton Glacier for a 15‑minute snow landing where guests may sample Shackleton Whiskey on glacial ice.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight works best for — and who should confirm details first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 50‑minute private helicopter charter.
The flight visits Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton glaciers, passes Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, includes a 15‑minute snow landing and offers a complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey for those who wish to try it with glacial ice.
Passengers must provide accurate weights at the time of booking; weights must meet the helicopter's weight & balance requirements. For full terms and Health & Safety details, consult the operator's Health & Safety information.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is this flight?
The private charter is 50 minutes in duration.
Is this a private flight?
Yes — the Shackleton Whiskey Endurance is offered as a private charter.
Which glaciers and peaks will we see?
The flight includes Franz Josef, Tasman and Shackleton glaciers and views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Is there an on‑ice landing?
Yes — a 15‑minute snow landing on the Shackleton Glacier is included.
Is whiskey included?
A complimentary sample of Shackleton Whiskey is available to those who want to sample it with glacial ice.
Are there weight restrictions?
Passenger weights must be within the helicopter's weight & balance requirements; provide accurate weights at booking to avoid rescheduling and consult the Health & Safety tab for full terms.