Great Ocean Road 12 apostles PRIVATE Luxury Tour 5 PAX all incl.

Planning a trip to see the Twelve Apostles and the stunning scenery along Victoria’s coastline can be a bit overwhelming. Many travelers opt for organized tours to make the experience smoother, but finding one that matches your expectations for comfort, flexibility, and exclusivity isn’t always easy. This private Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles Luxury Tour promises a tailored experience for up to five people, with an emphasis on comfort and avoiding the crowds.

What attracted us to this tour are two standout features: first, the chance to explore the highlights before they get crowded, thanks to its reverse itinerary; second, the promise of a fully private experience, which generally means more flexibility and personalized attention. That said, some reviews hint that the “luxury” aspect might not match everyone’s expectations, so it’s worth keeping that in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day out, valuing comfort over the hustle of large groups, and who are happy to pay a bit more for a private experience. If you love having a dedicated driver and guide to enhance your sightseeing without the rush, this might just be the right choice for you.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience with a maximum of 4 guests ensures comfort and personalized attention.
• Reverse itinerary allows visiting major sights early, avoiding crowds and capturing better photos.
• Comfort features like air conditioning and Wi-Fi on the vehicle make long days more enjoyable.
• Multiple scenic stops with free or included entry tickets, from coastlines to rainforests, offering diverse landscapes.
• Well-planned itinerary with stops at iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Memorial Arch.
• Potential variability in quality, as some reviews mention inconsistencies with the “luxury” promise and driver communication.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Starting Point: A Convenient Pickup in Melbourne

The tour begins at Port Melbourne’s Station Pier, a location close to public transportation options, making it easy to meet your driver. The full day is roughly 12 hours, packed with sightseeing and time to explore each site comfortably. From the outset, you’ll notice the emphasis on a smooth, cozy experience with air-conditioned transport and Wi-Fi onboard, ideal for staying connected or just relaxing between stops.

First Stop: Colac — A Charming Countryside Introduction

Your journey kicks off with a short drive to the small town of Colac, about 20 minutes from Melbourne. It’s a peaceful spot famous for its dairy farms and laid-back vibe. Here, you can grab a morning coffee or breakfast (own expense), setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. This stop is unobtrusive and mainly functional, but it’s a nice way to ease into the trip.

Mutton Bird Lookout: Ancient Coastline and Geological Marvels

Next, you’ll visit the Mutton Bird Lookout, where the coastline reveals its ancient origins. This spot offers stunning views and a chance to appreciate how the stones along the coast were formed around 200 million years ago from ocean debris. The site is free to visit and provides some great photo opportunities of the jagged rocks and ocean spray.

The Twelve Apostles: The Iconic Limestone Stacks

Of course, the highlight for most visitors is the Twelve Apostles themselves. Rising sharply from the ocean, these limestone formations are awe-inspiring. You’ll spend around 45 minutes here, giving ample time to take photos and soak in the view. Because this tour uses a reverse itinerary, you’ll likely arrive before the crowds, which means fewer travelers blocking your shot and a more peaceful experience.

Loch Ard Gorge: Nature’s Dramatic Scene

From there, the journey continues to Loch Ard Gorge, a site rich in history and natural beauty. Named after a shipwreck from 1878, the gorge features striking cliffs, turquoise waters, and a sandy beach—perfect for a leisurely exploration or a quick walk. Entry is free, and the backdrop makes for memorable photos. Some travelers mention the cliffs’ dramatic presence, and the nearby shipwreck memorial adds a touch of storytelling to the landscape.

Port Campbell National Park: A Vast Natural Playground

The tour includes an overview of the Port Campbell National Park, which encompasses many of these scenic spots. It’s a vast area that showcases the rugged coastlines and natural formations that make this part of Australia famous.

Mait’s Rest: Rainforest Adventure

Moving inland, you’ll experience a different type of scenery at Mait’s Rest, a lush rainforest area known for its towering mountain ash trees, ancient myrtle beech, and dense ferns. Expect about 25 minutes here, enough for a walk among trees that seem to touch the sky and possibly spot some native wildlife like koalas. Many appreciate this stop as a peaceful break from the coast while enjoying the cool, shaded environment.

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway

A quick visit to the Memorial Arch reveals the road’s history—built by soldiers returning from WWI, it’s Australia’s largest war memorial. This iconic entrance is a symbolic reminder of the road’s origins and the effort that went into creating this scenic route.

Apollo Bay: A Seaside Retreat

A stop in Apollo Bay allows travelers to stretch their legs, grab a meal, or just enjoy the beach. It’s a laid-back spot with a classic seaside vibe, perfect for a quick refresh before heading back inland.

Kennett River: Encountering Australian Wildlife

Next up is Kennet River, where the chances of spotting koalas and kangaroos are pretty good. It’s a short stop, but wildlife lovers find it rewarding. The area offers a chance to see some iconically Australian animals in their natural habitat.

Chocolate and Ice Cream Break: Sweeten the Day

Your journey ends at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Here, you can indulge in handmade chocolates, pralines, and artisanal ice cream—an enjoyable way to cap off the day. The shop is known for its high-quality treats and fun sculptures, making it a delicious end to a long day.

Returning to Melbourne

After this sweet pause, your private vehicle will return to the meeting point in Port Melbourne, closing a well-rounded day of sightseeing and relaxation.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The Good Stuff

Personalized attention is a major plus; with a private tour, you can customize your pace and focus on the sights that matter most to you. The reverse itinerary is a clever way to beat the crowds at the Twelve Apostles, which is often the busiest spot on other tours. Many reviews praise knowledgeable guides who can share interesting tidbits, enhancing the overall experience.

Comfort features like air-conditioning and onboard Wi-Fi make the long day more bearable. Plus, all fees and entry tickets are included, so there are no hidden costs—just the expense of your lunch and personal purchases.

The Not-So-Perfect

Some reviews point out that the “luxury” aspect may be a stretch. For example, one traveler was disappointed with the vehicle, describing it as a “dirty old Toyota Rav4,” and noted limited guide communication. While the itinerary and scenery are spectacular, the actual vehicle quality and driver interaction might vary.

Plus, since this is a private tour for up to four guests, it’s not ideal if you prefer larger groups or budget-friendly options. The price, about $845 for the group, reflects the exclusivity and personalized service but is a significant investment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a comfortable, private experience with flexibility and early access to key sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who prioritize avoiding crowds and value a relaxed pace. If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and a smooth ride, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile splurge.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury vehicle or a highly polished, guide-led experience, you might want to manage expectations. Also, bear in mind the total duration and the fact that breakfast and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This private Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles Tour offers a personalized, scenic way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines. Its main strengths lie in early access to the major sights, personalized attention, and comfort features like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. While it might fall short of some luxury expectations, the value of avoiding crowds and enjoying a flexible, intimate tour can’t be overstated.

This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free, relaxing day with a knowledgeable driver and are happy to spend a bit more for exclusivity. It’s a solid choice if you’re keen on capturing beautiful photos without the throng of other visitors, especially at the Twelve Apostles. Just keep in mind the vehicle quality and ensure your expectations align with what’s offered.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is primarily designed for adults, the itinerary’s relaxed pace and scenic stops can be enjoyable for families with older children. However, no specific family-friendly features are highlighted, so consider your kids’ comfort with long car rides and walking.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all fees and tickets for the various stops, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, and a private experience for up to four people. You’ll also get a water bottle per person.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to stop at local cafes, especially in Apollo Bay.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you likely have some flexibility, but it’s best to confirm with the provider beforehand. The main focus is on visiting the highlights efficiently while avoiding crowds.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What vehicle is used for this tour?
The tour uses a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, though reviews suggest that vehicle quality may vary, so do set your expectations accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 85 days ahead, indicating that the tour is quite popular and best secured early.

If you’re seeking a more intimate, hassle-free way to take in the stunning sights of the Great Ocean Road, this private tour offers a good balance of comfort, exclusivity, and scenic beauty. Just go in with clear expectations, and you’ll likely come away with some unforgettable memories of Australia’s coast.