Way Up High: The Wave hops an airship to cruise over the valley.

The Wave had a unique opportunity today to join Airship Ventures for a quick spin around the sky in a zeppelin 1,000 feet above the valley. The airship -- one of only four in the world and the only one in the United States -- has a top speed of about 40mph. The ride is smooth, like a large sailboat in the sky, lolling about on gentle waves of air. The cabin holds 12 passengers, plus two pilots, and we were allowed to walk around freely and even open two door windows and stick our cameras out for some amazing shots.

We were told that there is an airship in Germany and Japan, both of which operate for tourism, advertising and scientific and environmental surveilance purposes. The fourth airship, we're told, is used in Botswana to hunt for diamonds. That must be some big bling!

We heard unverifiable buzz about a special charter deal during the Maverick's surf contest. How cool would it be to cruise around in an airship above those massive waves? Stay tuned for that. Here are a few shots from the day.

Downtown Mountain View, City Hall

Shoreline Amphitheater