Float planes have been an obsession since we moved here - without a telly, their constant taking off and landing is some of the best entertainment to be had. Pete's first words were "float plane", and he still responds to that far more positively than "Mummy" or "Daddy".
You can get flights to places as far afield as Whistler and Seattle, but Bethany and I settled for a little panoramic sight-seeing tour over the city and local mountains. The plane was full, with twelve of us in there, and after the safety demonstration (the exit was the door we came in through) the engines were started.
The take off was lovely and smooth, and we circled Stanley Park before buzzing Grouse Mountain and scooting up a glacial valley then out over Howe Sound. Wooded mountains crowded us on all sides. It's always disconcerting when the land is higher than the plane but our pilot was equal to it and brought us back around for one final look at the city.
Landing wasn't as smooth as it could have been, with some bouncing over the waves before we settled, but I guess that comes with the territory. We sailed steadily back to the terminal and were soon on solid ground again. Bethany judged the whole experience "amazing!" I mostly agreed, even though there was a distinct lack of cabin service and I had to forego my usual in-flight G&T.
Hang on, that birthday cake is meant to be for me!
With boarding pass, ready for our tour.
Our chariot awaits!
Bethany boards.
We were sat right behind the pilot! I reckon I could work those controls. Well, the CD player, at least.
Onboard selfie.
Taxiing from the terminal.
Getting up speed...
Takeoff! We gained altitude over North Vancouver. This is where the tug boats live.
Downtown. It looks smaller from up here.
Looking down over her domain.
The Lions, two famous Vancouver peaks.
A secluded mountain lake. Probably chilly. Clothing optional?
Up to the still-snowy mountain ranges of the north.
Over Howe Sound and the islands.
The ski season is winding down now.
Final approach, past Stanley Park.
Splashdown!
Bethany's verdict.
Disembarking.
