From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles Tour

Traveling along the rugged coast of Victoria on the Great Ocean Road is an experience many travelers dream of, but capturing its true essence in a single day can be tricky. This tour, offered by YXY TRAVEL, promises a comprehensive journey packed with iconic sights, wildlife encounters, and scenic vistas—all within a 12-hour window. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really stands out are the stunning views of the Twelve Apostles, the chance to spot koalas in their natural habitat, and the seamless door-to-door service. The tour boasts a high rating of 4.8, and from what we gather, it offers excellent value considering the number of must-see locations covered.

However, a potential consideration is the long duration—this is a full-day trip, which might be tiring if you’re not used to early mornings or extended bus rides. That said, if you’re keen on ticking off one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal routes in a single day, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love scenic landscapes, wildlife, and want a convenient, guided way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves.

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Key Points

All-in-one experience: Visit Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Kennett River, and more in one day.
Comfort and convenience: Door-to-door pickup in Melbourne with a small group setting.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local tips.
Wildlife spotting: Opportunities to see koalas, wild parrots, and wombats.
Stunning photo opportunities: Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge provide picture-perfect moments.
Value for money: For $142, you get a well-rounded, scenic adventure with snacks and water included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

Looking for more options in Melbourne? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Morning Pickup and Introduction

The day begins with a door-to-door pickup from your Melbourne accommodation, easing the hassle of transport logistics. The small group format (up to 12 seats) means a more personal experience, with the driver-guide often sharing local stories and tips along the way. Expect to be on the road early, around 7-8 a.m., to make the most of the daylight hours.

Split Point Lighthouse and Coastal Landmarks

Your first stop is the Split Point Lighthouse, an instantly recognizable icon perched on the rugged coastline. Here, you’ll also see Heart-shaped Reef and Eagle Rock, which are perfect for quick photo stops. These landmarks give you a sense of how dramatic and varied the coastline is, with jagged cliffs and swirling surf.

The Great Ocean Road House Number

Next, you visit the Great Ocean Road house number, a tribute to the workers who built this legendary route during World War I. This spot offers not only a moment of reflection but also a perfect photo op with the monument commemorating the effort that went into shaping this scenic corridor.

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Kennett River: Wildlife Wonderland

The tour then moves inland to Kennett River, a famous Koala spotting site. According to reviews, many visitors are delighted by how easy it is to see koalas relaxing on branches or crossing the road—sometimes even on balconies of nearby houses. Besides koalas, you might spot wild parrots and wombats, adding a wild Australia touch to your day.

There's plenty more to explore in Melbourne

Apollo Bay: A Coastal Haven

Mid-morning, you’ll arrive at Apollo Bay, a picturesque town backed by the Otway Mountains. Its wide white-sand beach is perfect for a short stroll, and many visitors appreciate stopping here for fishing, relaxing, or just soaking in the scenery. The town’s location makes it a favorite weekend getaway for locals and visitors alike.

Gibson Steps and the Twelve Apostles

One of the highlights is the Gibson Steps, where you descend to the beach level to get up-close views of the towering limestone formations. From here, you’ll get the best vantage point for the Twelve Apostles, the iconic limestone stacks that have become a symbol of Australia’s coast. Expect to spend some time marveling at these natural sculptures as waves crash below.

Loch Ard Gorge: A Dramatic Marine Scene

Your final major stop is Loch Ard Gorge, named after a 19th-century shipwreck. Surrounded by towering cliffs and with crystal-clear waters, this spot offers a spectacular view of the rugged coastline and shipwreck history. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed walk and photos.

Return Journey and Drop-off

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will ensure you’re comfortably back in Melbourne by evening, with plenty of memories and photos to cherish.

The Experience and What You’ll Gain

Comfort and Transport

Using modern Mercedes and Hyundai vehicles, the tour provides a comfortable ride across approximately 12 hours of travel. The small group size not only enhances intimacy but also allows flexibility for quick photo stops and personalized attention from guides.

Guided Insight

Guides are described as knowledgeable and professional, often sharing interesting facts and local insights that go beyond the standard script. Some reviews mention guides who are personable, funny, and eager to answer questions, making the experience more engaging.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the most praised aspects is how reliably you can see koalas at Kennett River. Reviews mention that koalas are often seen crossing the road or relaxing peacefully, making this part of the tour especially memorable for animal lovers. The chance to spot parrots and wombats adds an extra layer of authenticity.

Scenic Highlights

From the seascapes at Gibson Steps to the spectacular cliffs of Loch Ard Gorge, this tour offers many settings that will leave you breathless. The Twelve Apostles themselves are a photo must-see, with waves crashing against the limestone stacks in a dramatic display of nature’s power.

Value for Money

For $142, the tour covers a hefty list of attractions, snacks, water, and door-to-door pickup—all adding up to a hassle-free day. While you’ll need to cover your own lunch and entry fees (if any), the convenience and guided commentary make it a worthwhile investment.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Start early: To maximize your time and avoid crowds, be ready for pickup around 7-8 a.m.
Pack essentials: Bring layers, as weather can change quickly along the coast; don’t forget your camera!
Budget for extras: Lunch isn’t included, so plan to buy food at Apollo Bay or pack your own.
Prepare for a full day: The 12-hour duration means you’ll be on the move most of the day, so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.
Group size matters: Smaller groups mean more personalized attention and fewer delays at stops.

Who Might Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for travelers who prefer guided excursions to avoid the hassle of self-driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. If you love scenic coastlines, wildlife, and iconic landmarks, this tour offers a well-rounded day out. It’s also great for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive experience of the Great Ocean Road.

Keep in mind that if you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops at Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge will be prime opportunities for stunning shots. If wildlife spotting is high on your list, the chance to see koalas in the wild adds a genuine Australian touch.

On the flip side, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more flexibility over a structured schedule, you might find this tour a bit restrictive. But overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup from any location within Melbourne, making it convenient to join from your accommodation.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English and Chinese, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are snacks and water included?
Yes, snacks and water are provided throughout the day to keep you refreshed during the long drive.

What costs are not included?
You will need to cover your own lunch and any admission fees to attractions, as these are not included in the price.

Can I request a different vehicle type?
Yes, the provider offers Mercedes 8-seaters, Alpha 7-seaters, Hyundai 8-seaters, and larger groups on request—just confirm with customer service before booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the comfortable vehicle and scenic nature make it suitable for families, provided children are prepared for a full day.

Final Thoughts

This Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne offers a well-crafted balance of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural landmarks. Its value for money, guided insights, and door-to-door service make it an attractive option for travelers who want a hassle-free, memorable day on one of Australia’s most famous coasts.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and flexibility. Photographers, wildlife lovers, and those eager to tick this iconic route off their list will find this tour particularly rewarding.

While a long day, the comfort, expert guidance, and scenery ensure that most travelers will return with plenty of stories and photos—and a new appreciation for Australia’s rugged coastline.

In essence, if you’re looking for a guided, comprehensive, and scenic day trip from Melbourne that balances iconic sights with wildlife encounters, this tour is a highly recommended choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid the logistics of self-driving and prefer the insights of local guides to enrich their journey.