Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight)

If you’re dreaming of seeing one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks—the 12 Apostles—this VIP helicopter tour from Melbourne promises an experience you’ll never forget. We’ve reviewed the details, and it’s clear this isn’t just your average sightseeing trip. It combines breathtaking aerial views, personalized touches, and options to extend your adventure with wine tastings or penguin sightings.

What draws us to this experience? First, the luxury of a private helicopter reserved solely for your group, ensuring a personalized flight. Second, the amazing aerial perspective of the Great Ocean Road and the Apostles, offering photo opportunities that are hard to match. Lastly, the flexibility of exploring nearby sites up close, such as Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. However, it’s worth noting that the price tag is quite hefty—around $2,180 per person—and meals are separate, which might be a consideration for budget travelers.

This tour suits those who love exclusive, high-end travel experiences, and who want to see the natural beauty of Australia from a unique vantage point. If you’re after the thrill of a helicopter ride combined with a chance to explore iconic spots at your own pace, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Private helicopter reserved just for your group offers exclusivity and comfort.
• Stunning Views: Expect spectacular aerial sights of the Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles.
• Flexible Ground Time: Up to 2 hours on the ground at the Apostles for photos, walking, or exploring Gibson Steps.
• Optional Extras: Choose between a private winery lunch or a penguin parade on Phillip Island.
• All-Inclusive Features: Guaranteed window seat, noise-cancelling Bose headsets, and photo opportunities with the helicopter.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Flight from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles

Your adventure begins at Rotor One in Essendon Fields, where your private helicopter awaits. The flight from Melbourne to the coast takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in views of the city, the coastline, and the sprawling ocean below. The aircraft is equipped with noise-cancelling Bose headsets and a guaranteed window seat, so you won’t miss a moment of the scenery.

Traveling in a private helicopter means you avoid the crowds and enjoy a smooth, quiet ride. Reviewers like Michael, who called it their “first helicopter ride,” highlighted how “Grey and Rubin were excellent guides and pilots,” making the experience both professional and comfortable. The benefit of a private flight is that it’s tailored to your pace and interests, with opportunities for photos in front of your chopper before landing.

Landing at the 12 Apostles

Landing directly at the helipad near the Twelve Apostles is a standout feature. This private touch means you avoid the busy viewing areas and get a chance for up-close photos with your helicopter—great for social media or just memories. After your arrival, you have up to 2 hours on the ground, which is generous for taking panoramic photos, gazing at the formations from different angles, or exploring the nearby Gibson Steps.

Many reviewers, including Jennifer, mentioned how knowledgeable guides like Ed made the experience even more engaging. Ed’s professionalism and willingness to answer questions turned what could be a simple sightseeing spot into an enriching experience.

Exploring the Key Stops

Gibson Steps is the starting point of the Apostles from the sea level—the place where you can see the towering stacks from below, feeling more like an explorer than a tourist. Many visitors find this view more dramatic, especially if they walk down the steps.

Loch Ard Gorge is celebrated for its beauty and history, offering a beachside escape with stunning geological features. You might find yourself lingering here, marveling at the cliffs and the story behind the shipwreck that gave the gorge its name.

London Bridge is famous for its collapse in the 1990s, leaving three people stranded and later rescued by helicopter—an intriguing piece of local history. Watching it from above gives a real sense of the geological forces at play.

The Grotto is a captivating sinkhole formation that combines geological interest with visual wow factor. Many reviewers, like Heber, appreciated the professionalism of the pilot Harry, who fixed a mix-up with their winery lunch and made sure their experience exceeded expectations.

Bakers Oven and the Bay of Martyrs are scenic stops along the coast, offering incredible scenic vistas and perfect photo opportunities. The Bay of Martyrs is especially noted for its beauty, making it a highlight along the route.

Peterborough’s rock stacks and small beaches complete the scenic tour, with cliff walks and panoramic lookouts that let you soak in the rugged coastline.

Optional Landings and Tours

Winery Lunch: For those seeking a gourmet touch, you can opt for a private landing at a local winery. This feature, highlighted in reviews, adds a layer of luxury and culinary delight, with wine tastings and a meal (meals and drinks charged separately). It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting to savor local flavors after their aerial adventure.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade: For a truly immersive wildlife experience, this optional extension drops you at Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade. As one reviewer noted, the scenic flight over Phillip Island combined with premium viewing seats and ranger-guided tours makes it a memorable addition. Transfers are included, making it a smooth transition from your coastal adventure to observing the famous penguins.

Value and Practicality

While the price of $2,181.57 per person might seem steep, it reflects the exclusivity and tailored nature of this experience. You’re paying not just for the flight but also for the convenience of private landings, personalized interaction, and the flexibility to spend quality time at each location.

The tour duration of approximately 5 hours balances the thrill of flying with enough ground time to truly explore the sights. The fact that it’s booked an average of 59 days in advance indicates a high demand—likely due to its popularity and reputation.

It’s important to note that meals are not included, so budgeting for a gourmet lunch or snacks during your down time is wise if you plan to indulge. The optional winery visit can be a real highlight if you love wine and local produce.

Comfort and Accessibility

Travelers with an interest in scenic, high-end experiences will appreciate the private nature of this tour. The aircraft’s comfort, personalized service, and scenic stops cater to those looking for a memorable, hassle-free adventure. Reviews from users like Jennifer, who called their guide Ed “very professional and informative,” underscore the value of knowledgeable, friendly guides.

Who Is This Tour For?

This VIP helicopter tour is perfect for special occasion travelers—anniversaries, birthdays, or just someone wanting a unique experience. It’s also well-suited for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts eager to capture spectacular vistas from an uncommon perspective.

If you’re after a luxurious, personalized outing that combines adventure with comfort, this tour ticks all those boxes. The optional extensions make it flexible for those who want a full day of wildlife, wine, or coastal exploration.

However, the cost might be a barrier for budget travelers, and the tour’s reliance on good weather means it’s better suited for clear days. If you’re comfortable with the price and seeking an exclusive way to see the 12 Apostles, this experience could be your highlight of the trip.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter flight from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles?
The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne to the coast, providing plenty of scenic viewing along the way.

What is included in the tour?
The tour features a private helicopter, guaranteed window seat, noise-cancelling Bose headsets, a private landing at the 12 Apostles helipad, and up to 2 hours on the ground for sightseeing.

Are there optional extensions available?
Yes. You can choose to land at a winery for lunch or visit Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade, both adding extra memorable moments.

What should I bring for the ground stops?
Comfortable shoes for walking down Gibson Steps or exploring the viewing platforms are recommended. Don’t forget your camera for capturing the dramatic scenery.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with helicopter rides and moderate walking. The total weight per passenger is 287 lbs, so check weight restrictions if concerned.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The experience depends on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour offers a luxurious and intimate way to experience one of Australia’s most stunning natural sights. Whether you’re seeking a special celebration or simply want to see the coast from a new perspective, the combination of private flight, ground exploration, and optional extras creates a versatile adventure.

While the price might be high, the exclusivity, personalized service, and unforgettable views make it a valuable choice for those who prioritize quality and memorable experiences. If you’re after an authentic, premium way to witness the iconic Twelve Apostles and surrounding landmarks, this tour is definitely worth considering.

For travelers who love combining scenic air travel with local exploration and optional wildlife or wine experiences, this tour offers a full day of tailored adventure that’s hard to beat.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and be prepared for a full, but highly rewarding, day out exploring Australia’s rugged coastline from the sky and the ground.