Private Premium Great Ocean Road with Lunch & Wildlife spotting

Taking a guided tour along the Great Ocean Road is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and a private version adds a personalized touch that makes it even more special. This Private Premium Great Ocean Road tour offers an intimate way to explore one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, enjoy spectacular scenery, and learn about local history—all while traveling in comfort.

What sets this tour apart? You’re traveling with your own small group (up to 7 people), in a late-model vehicle, with the flexibility to customize your day. The inclusion of wildlife sightings, a delicious lunch, and complimentary wine makes it a well-rounded experience that balances adventure, comfort, and a taste of local flavor. However, be aware that the price tag is on the higher side, which reflects the exclusive nature of this private experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, want to avoid crowds, and love the idea of a flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your interests. If you’re after a more intimate encounter with the coastal wonders and wildlife of Victoria, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Travel with just your group, with the chance to discuss and alter your itinerary.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see kangaroos and koalas in their natural environment, with the caveat that wildlife is unpredictable.
• Spectacular sights: From the iconic Twelve Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge, you’ll visit many of the region’s top photo spots.
• Comfort and convenience: Enjoy a plush vehicle with WiFi, snacks, and a relaxed pace.
• Local flavor: A delicious lunch at Apollo Bay and a complimentary Australian wine add a gourmet touch.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the history and geography of the region.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Booking and Group Experience

Priced at around $793.54 per group (up to 7 people), this tour offers a more exclusive experience, ideal for families or small groups. Its typical booking window is about 101 days in advance, indicating its popularity among those seeking a more personalized adventure. The tour lasts approximately 12.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around early evening—perfect for those who want to maximize daylight and explore without rushing.

The vehicle is modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with WiFi, which means you can share your stunning photos or browse travel tips during the quieter stretches. The driver-guide is professional and experienced, ready to customize the day based on your group’s preferences and provide deep insights into local spots.

Itinerary Breakdown

Anglesea (Wild Koala Spotting)
Starting early at Anglesea, the tour visits a spot famous for wild koalas on a golf course. While the sighting is not guaranteed—since the kangaroos and koalas are wild and roam freely—the guide will do their best to get you close. The fact that the viewing happens from inside the vehicle is important; guests are not permitted to leave the vehicle to respect private property and wildlife safety. As one reviewer noted, “if the koalas aren’t around, they’ll visit other sightseeing areas,” which shows flexibility.

Split Point Lighthouse
Next, you’ll visit the historic Split Point Lighthouse, built in 1891. The lighthouse still functions today, operated automatically, and offers panoramic views of the dangerous southern ocean. Climbing to the top has a $10 fee, but outside photos are free, meaning you can enjoy the scenery without extra cost. The lighthouse is a photographer’s haven and offers a glimpse into maritime history.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View
A quick stop at the Memorial Arch celebrates the soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road after WWI. It’s an ideal spot for selfies and learning about the road’s remarkable construction story. It’s a meaningful break in the day—one that travelers say makes the experience more memorable.

Lunch at Apollo Bay
Midday, the tour arrives at Apollo Bay, a charming coastal town. Here, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy local cuisine or relax at the beach. The lunch options include a selection of sandwiches and wraps, with plenty of variety for different tastes. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy fresh sea air.

Great Otway National Park & Wildlife
Post-lunch, the journey takes you through the lush landscapes of Great Otway National Park, where another chance to spot koalas awaits. The review mentions that “wildlife spotting along the way is a highlight,” and the natural park setting provides excellent opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

Twelve Apostles
The iconic limestone stacks are a highlight of any Great Ocean Road trip, and seeing them in person is truly special. The towering formations, battered by waves every second, seem to change with each visit. Photo opportunities here are endless, and the guide will often encourage capturing multiple angles. As one review put it, “consider yourself lucky to see these giants,” emphasizing their elusive yet majestic nature.

Loch Ard Gorge & Gibsons Steps
Next, the tour visits Loch Ard Gorge, a place filled with history and natural beauty. The story of the shipwreck’s survivors adds a poignant touch. Walking down stairways to the beach, you’ll feel a sense of connection to the raw power of the ocean. Following that, Gibsons Steps allow you to descend to the beach below and stand amidst the sea stacks—an awe-inspiring experience.

Inland Return via Colac
On the way back to Melbourne, the route takes an inland path through Colac, offering a more relaxed journey and a chance to rest before the final stretch. This detour also ensures you avoid the traffic of the coast and enjoy a smoother, quicker return.

Evening Return & Final Stop
The tour concludes at St Paul’s Cathedral, bringing you back to the city around 7-7:30 pm. The timing allows for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Personal Touch

Unlike larger group tours, this experience truly focuses on your group’s preferences. The guide is known for their insights and flexibility, tailoring the day to suit your interests, whether that’s wildlife, photography, or history.

Wildlife Encounters

While wild animals are unpredictable, your chances of spotting kangaroos and koalas are high, especially early in the morning. The review from LYNN_H notes that the wild koalas on the golf course are a unique sight, though the viewing is limited to the vehicle for safety purposes. The opportunity to see these iconic creatures in their natural environment adds a genuine wilderness feel to the trip.

Spectacular Views & Photo Opportunities

From the lighthouse to the twelve apostles, the scenery is what you’d expect from posters and travel magazines. The guide often shares tips on the best angles and times for photos, making sure you leave with memories you’ll want to print.

Gourmet Touches

The inclusion of complimentary Australian wine and lunch elevates this tour from a simple sightseeing trip to an experience that indulges your senses. The lunch at Apollo Bay, with its variety of sandwiches and wraps, provides a satisfying midday break.

Analyzing the Value

At nearly $800 for up to 7 people, this tour isn’t cheap, but it does include many valuable features: private transport, flexible itinerary, lunch, snacks, water, WiFi, and wine. The personalized service and exclusive access to certain sights justify the price for travelers looking for a premium experience.

While the cost might seem high compared to larger bus tours, the benefits of less crowding, tailored stops, and a more relaxed pace often outweigh the extra expense. The reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is breathtaking, making the price worthwhile for those seeking a more intimate and comfortable adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is best suited for travelers who desire a luxurious, personalized experience without the hassle of large groups. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a flexible day to explore at their own pace. If you value wildlife encounters, stunning vistas, and gourmet touches, this trip offers a well-rounded experience.

It also suits photographers or nature lovers eager to capture the region’s natural beauty with expert guidance. Families or small groups looking for a comfortable, inclusive, and customizable day will find this a great fit.

The Sum Up

This Private Premium Great Ocean Road tour offers a rare chance to explore one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastlines in comfort, with flexibility, and a touch of luxury. The small-group setting ensures a more personal experience, allowing you to connect deeply with the scenery and wildlife. The inclusion of lunch, wine, and WiFi enhances the day, making it more than just sightseeing.

While the price is higher than many group options, the value lies in the exclusivity, convenience, and tailored nature of the experience. For travelers who want an intimate, scenic, and comfortably paced adventure, this tour delivers on all fronts.

If you’re seeking a flexible, wildlife-rich journey with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful guides, this tour could be your ideal Great Ocean Road escape.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for small groups and families, especially those who want a private experience and the comfort of traveling in a small vehicle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. As a private tour, you can discuss with the guide to tailor stops or spend more time in certain areas.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am from St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne, allowing a full day of exploration.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, bottled water, lunch (varieties of sandwiches and wraps), coffee/tea, WiFi, and a complimentary bottle of Australian wine are included.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, wildlife is wild, and sightings depend on animal activity. However, the guide will do their best to spot kangaroos and koalas early in the day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12.5 hours, from early morning pickup to early evening return.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a late-model, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, ensuring a pleasant journey.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $10 fee applies if you wish to go inside and to the top of Split Point Lighthouse.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its private, customizable nature, small group size, and inclusion of gourmet touches like wine and lunch set it apart from standard bus tours.

Exploring the Great Ocean Road in this private, tailored way promises a memorable, scenic, and comfortable adventure—perfect for those wanting a personalized slice of Australian coastal beauty.