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                         Stillwater Balloon
                  135 Saint Croix Trail North
                 Lakeland, Minnesota 55043
                     Phone: 651.439.1800
                Flight Status: 651.439.0900
        email: stillwaterballoons@comcast.net

Q:  Why should I choose Stillwater Balloons?


A:  Because we're pretty, and people like us... okay, there are other reasons too (if you really need them).  Take, for instance, that we launch only blocks from the beautiful St Croix River, every flight offering spectacular water views, or that we are a trusted business, offering commercial flights since 1976 and providing more rides than anyone else in the Midwest.  You could be excited about the fact that you will recieve an engraved keepsake Champagne flute.  You will definately like the fact that we have the lowest full price in the area, run great specials, and promise to match our local competitors' pricing (should we neglect to catch a great deal).  Additionally, we are the only local company to offer certificates that never expire - the money you spend is waiting for you whenever you desire to use it.  Finally, we are committed to making the world a happier place - we will start by striving to exceed your desires in customer service and flight, but we won't stop there. 

Let the beauty overwhelm you. 

Come fly with us. 

Q: I have a fetish for snow globes... what do you think?

A: Cool. We kind of have a thing for them too - only, we like to think big... really big. Imagine soaring over crystalline landscaping, the ground and roadways blanketed in white, every tree and chimney sparkling under the sun's early rays. If you're perpetually blessed, snow may still be silently falling about the balloon. Leaves are no more, so you will be able to see the wildlife darting through the sparse forest. Snuggling will be on the increase, and, with the snow absorbing ambient noise, peace reigns. Winter flights are amazing... really amazing.  We think, "Yes!"


Q: Why does everyone keep warning me about rescheduling?

A: Hot air balloon flights are completely dependant upon weather conditions. Ground winds in excess of 10 miles an hour, excessive winds aloft, precipitation, fog, wet landing conditions, and low cloud cover are just a few of the obstacles balloonists face. Each of these conditions can cause our pilots to cancel scheduled flights and ask our passengers to reschedule. We cancel approximately 75% of our flights due to unfavorable weather conditions, and although some customers are able to fly on thier first scheduled date, the average number of reschedules is five. We are perpetually turning our customers attention to this fact as foreknowledge reduces frustration. We want you to be aware of it such that is is less likely to surprise and irritate. Indeed, this reality is part of what makes ballooning so spectacular and so completely enjoyable. You are all but guaranteed a gorgeous day and a smooth flight due to our careful attention to these details.

Q: How do I know if my flight will go as scheduled?

A: We continually monitor weather conditions, and the decision on viability is made two hours prior to the scheduled flight. At this time, you can call our flight information line to hear about the flight status. However, even with the most advanced meteorological equipment, forecasts can be inaccurate. Rarely, a flight is delayed or canceled in the field, and all flight times and flight lengths can be effected by changing wind or weather conditions. Our pilots are highly experienced, and we will work diligently to ensure the most enjoyable flight possible. Again, any change after the status is issued on the flight information line is quite unusual. Once you hear that the flight is going as scheduled, you can fully expect a sensational experience to be awaiting your arrival.

Q:  Do I really want to take a ride in a larger balloon?  Wouldn't a private flight be better?

A:  Yes!  (I think...)  Hot air balloon flight in larger balloons (with 8-16 passengers) is set forth as an incredible and beautiful adventure - quite comparable to a private flight.  Normally, those who tell you that smaller balloons are better, only have smaller balloons and/or are trying up-sell.  We have balloons of many sizes - my advice is to purchase the least expensive certificates that we offer - they are, for all intense purposes the same. That said, nobody ever pays any attention to my advice anyway... we would be happy to provide a private flight at your convenience. And... we also offer something rather unique: custom flights. These flights, rather than being a carbon copy of the standard flight (minus some company), offer you the ability to customize the launch location and add on details that will truly make this a once in a lifetime adventure.

Details, details... The only difference between a private flight and a standard flight is the number of individuals in the balloon.  Our standard flight balloons convey between 8 and 16 passengers depending on the weights of those flying, the weather conditions, and the balloon chosen.  These flights are termed semi private by many in the industry.  Our baskets accomodate these passengers with the same amount of room, same level of comfort, and same spectacular views which are offered by private flights.  Additionally, the cost of a two person excursion is often cost prohibitive.  As such, we encourage all who ask about private flights to consider the savings and enjoyment offered by our standard flights.  

Q:  How far out do I need to schedule? 

A:  This is a tricky question... As I write this, I have availability today.  That said, we normally tell our customers to expect two weeks.  Some days and times are available much, much earlier, and you can often find availablity within a day or two.  On occasion, you will need a bit more lead time (esp. during fall colors or if you are only available Saturday evenings).  Last year we took up over 900 passengers, and if your schedule was flexible, there was never a time when we were over two weeks out.    This is often not the case with smaller companies who cut their prices drastically, sell a ton of rides, and then do not have the balloons or pilots to support all of their customers.  It is common for some of these smaller companies to to schedule out a month during thier slower times and multiple months for weekends.  This becomes a great problem when you are in need of rescheduling or are fearful of your certificate expiring.  Please hear me clearly, not all small companies operate in this fashion - enough do, however, to give balloon businesses a bad name.  We are careful to never treat our customers in this manner. 

Q:  You just said fall colors... I LOVE fall colors.  Can I go?

A:  No.  Okay, YES; you can go.  But, no matter how beautiful and how enchanting, fall is extremely difficult.  Not only does the whole world want to fly, and not only are we under our normal flight restrictions, but fall in Minnesota normally sees an increase in wind speeds and precipitation. We love flying in the fall, and we would love to help you schedule a flight.  If the weather is good, the views will be fabulous.  But, if the weather is bad and your flight is grounded, remember: every season offers its own incredible beauty.  Try a winter flight, or wait on lush summer views. 

Q:  I am pregnant, can I still take a hot air balloon flight?

A:  No.  Although ballooning is most commonly gentle and safe, there are instances where the landing is a bit more jarring.  While this landing would cause no lasting harm to other adults in the craft, it could damage the placenta and thus be dangerous for mom and baby.  We believe that pregnancy is an incredible miracle and would like to help you protect your baby against even the most unlikely of circumstances.  We would be happy to take you flying after your baby is born - bring pictures!

Q:  How do I change or cancel my reservations?  What if I do not show up for my flight?

A:  Twenty four hour notice is required for weekdays and forty-eight hour notice for weekend and holiday flights.  Any cancellation not abiding by these policies will result in a fee of $50 per certificate prior to rescheduling.  If you do not show up for your scheduled flight, there will be a $100 charge per certificate at the time of scheduling your next date.  (Note, Groupon certificates have different guidelines, please refer to your certificates for more information.)

Q:  I purchased certificates but was then mauled by a bear who whispered in my ear... "Don't take the flight..." Now I feel nervous.  Can I get a refund?

A:  Wow, we feel your pain (kind of).  But, no matter how sad the story, no refunds... ever.  We also cannot combine certificates; each flight certificate stands on it's own (unlike wolves, which travel in packs, I would watch out for them too).  Finally (as long as I am throwing out cautions), since our certificates are fully transferable, you need to treat them like cash.  Whoever holds the certificates can take flight, and if nobody is holding the certificates (big sigh) nobody takes flight.  So, what I am saying is, the bear was only trying to intimidate you to get you to loosen your grip on the certificates (stinkin' tricky bears).  Way to go!  You win!  Now... come fly with us.




Around the World in a Relatively Decent Chunk of Time

Travel Phileas Fogg–style in a hot air balloon. Here are some tips for recreating Jules Verne's fantastical scenario:

You can never bring too many dashing chapeaus.

Twinkies never go stale, but they will send passing geese into a frenzied breeding rage.

Don't drop Faberge eggs over Belgium; they have no sense of humor.

If you don't see dry land for 30 minutes, you're already dead.

        Remember, no one can see you cry up there, and your father's criticisms will never float as high as your dreams.

             (...someone silly wrote this for me... don't think too hard, just laugh)