Great Ocean Road Private Customised One Day Tour

Planning a trip to Melbourne? If the idea of cruising along one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes appeals to you, then the Great Ocean Road Private Customised One Day Tour deserves your attention. This tour promises a personalized journey, with a private vehicle, flexible stops, and expert drivers who know the route inside out. Whether you’re after breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, or simply a chance to escape the city for a day, this experience offers a well-rounded way to explore.

Three things we particularly like about this tour are its customizable route, the private nature that allows for tailored stops, and the professional drivers who bring local insights and adaptability to weather changes. On the flip side, consider that this is a full-day outing that requires good weather and a bit of early planning — especially since the tour is popular, often booked 75 days in advance. Ultimately, this tour fits travelers seeking a flexible, intimate experience with a balance of iconic sights and quieter, scenic moments.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s ideal for those who prefer a private, more relaxed approach to seeing the Great Ocean Road, whether traveling as a small group, family, or even a couple wanting a bespoke day out. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who values expert guidance will appreciate the personalized touches and flexibility.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour allows you to prioritize your interests and skip the crowds.
• Expert drivers familiar with the route provide local insights and adapt plans based on weather and preferences.
• Iconic stops like Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are included, with options to explore more off-the-beaten-path sites.
• Includes hotel pickup and private transportation, making logistics easier and more comfortable.
• Seasonal insights help tailor the experience depending on the time of year, from storm-watching in winter to whale migrations in early spring.
• Additional costs, such as attraction tickets or meals, are not included, which offers flexibility but also requires some planning.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway

Our journey kicks off at the iconic Memorial Arch, a symbolic gateway marking the beginning of the route. Here, you’ll learn about the road’s history — a project built during the Great Depression that transformed the Victorian coast. Your driver, who is familiar with the route and local history, will likely share some lesser-known stories, adding depth to this scenic photo stop. Expect around 30 minutes at this point; it’s a quick yet meaningful introduction to the journey ahead.

River Kennet and Erskine Falls

The next stop is the lush River Kennet, home to the impressive Erskine Falls. A light rainforest walk takes you close to the cascading water, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. With about 1 hour 30 minutes here, you’ll have enough time to soak in the scenery, snap some photos, and even take a short hike if you’re feeling energetic. Entrance is free, making this a cost-effective highlight. Reviewers love the balance of ease and beauty, with one mentioning, “The falls are stunning, and the rainforest walk is just the right length to refresh without tiring out.”

Apollo Bay & Coastal Walks

A favorite among travelers, Apollo Bay offers a charming seaside village vibe. Your driver might suggest optional coastal hikes or wildlife spotting, including wild koalas along the road. Food lovers will appreciate the Fishermen’s Co-op, where fresh seafood is available — a perfect spot to grab lunch or snacks. Expect around an hour here; enough to stretch your legs, enjoy ocean views, and grab some local produce.

Great Otway National Park & Otway Fly Treetop Walk

Next, you’re off to the lush heart of Otway National Park, where a Treetop Walk awaits (pre-booking required). This elevated walk through the canopy provides a bird’s eye view of the rainforest, giving a perspective that’s both exhilarating and peaceful. While tickets aren’t included, many reviewers say it’s well worth the extra expense for nature lovers and those wanting a unique perspective on the forest. The drive here showcases some of Victoria’s lushest landscapes, making it a highlight for many.

The Twelve Apostles

No visit to the Great Ocean Road is complete without stopping at the world-famous Twelve Apostles. Your driver will recommend multi-angle viewpoints, so you can capture the towering limestone stacks from various perspectives. With about 1 hour 30 minutes allocated, you’ll have prime time to take photos, admire the natural wonder, and learn about the formation of these iconic formations. Reviewers frequently note the beauty of the sunset or early morning light here, making timing a consideration if you want optimal photos.

Loch Ard Gorge & Gibson Steps

The final major stop is Loch Ard Gorge, a dramatic landscape of cliffs and wreck history. Here, you can walk along the beach beneath the towering cliffs, or descend the Gibson Steps to get a closer look at the sea stacks from below. The site’s haunting story from 1878 adds a layer of intrigue, and the scenery is breathtaking. Expect around an hour at this stop, giving enough time for exploration and photos. Reviewers appreciate the accessibility and the opportunity to see the “gloomy cliffs and clear waters” up close.

What’s Included and What Isn’t

Included in the price ($720 per group) are private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, fuel, parking, tolls, and a complimentary water bottle. This all adds to the convenience and comfort of the day, especially for small groups.

What’s not included are attraction tickets (like Otway Fly), meals, and personal expenses. This allows you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat, and whether to splurge on additional experiences.

The Practicalities: Timing, Pricing, and More

This tour runs approximately 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day. With most bookings happening around 75 days in advance, it’s clear that demand is high — a sign of its popularity and value. The private nature means you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for a personalized pace and stops.

The price of $720 for up to three people might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the private transport, expert guiding, and flexibility, it offers good value for those looking for a private, tailored experience. If you want a more economical or group-oriented tour, there are smaller group options available, but with less flexibility.

Seasonal Considerations and Tips

Depending on the time of year, your experience might change. In summer, expect sunny skies and busier trails — perfect for sightseeing and photography. Autumn offers quieter trails and softer light, while winter comes with moody skies and roaring surf, ideal for storm-watching or capturing dramatic scenery. June to September is peak whale migration season near Warrnambool, adding the chance for whale sightings if your timing aligns.

Weather can influence accessibility, especially at outdoor stops like Otway Fly or Loch Ard Gorge, so your driver will adapt the itinerary accordingly. Travelers have appreciated the flexibility, with some noting that “the driver recommended a different route due to weather, which made the day even more interesting.”

The Value of a Private, Customizable Experience

What sets this tour apart is its focus on personalization. Unlike larger group tours, a private journey allows you to skip the crowds and focus on what interests you most—whether that’s a longer stop at the Twelve Apostles or a quick detour to a lesser-known scenic spot. The driver’s local knowledge not only enriches the experience but also ensures you won’t miss hidden gems or get caught in traffic.

The vehicle’s comfort, coupled with the convenience of hotel pickup, means you start your day relaxed and ready to explore. Plus, with the flexibility to adapt on the fly, you can spend more time at sights that captivate you or skip those that don’t interest.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers who crave a private, flexible way to experience the Great Ocean Road, this tour offers excellent value. The expert drivers, customizable stops, and scenic highlights make it suitable for those who want a personal touch — whether you’re visiting Melbourne for a short time or want a more intimate day out.

If you’re someone who values comfort, flexibility, and local insights, and you’re willing to invest in a slightly pricier experience for peace of mind and tailored exploration, this tour fits the bill. Just remember that attraction tickets and meals are extra, so budget accordingly.

This tour is well-suited for those seeking a blend of iconic sights and quieter moments, with the ability to shape the journey according to your interests and the weather. It’s a thoughtfully curated way to discover one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastlines.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, making the day seamless from the start.

How many people can participate?
The price covers up to 3 people in a private group, making it ideal for small parties, couples, or families.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, tickets for attractions like Otway Fly or specific activities are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose what to add.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. As a private, customizable tour, the driver will recommend a route based on your interests, weather, and timing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, including stops and travel time.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable during winter?
Yes, but be prepared for potentially moody skies and stormy seas, which can add a dramatic element to the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your camera. Meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase locally.

Is this tour good for photography?
Definitely. The stops, especially at Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, are perfect for capturing iconic landscapes from multiple perspectives.

This private tour offers a flexible, intimate way to experience the stunning coastline of the Great Ocean Road—tailored to your interests, paced at your comfort, and enriched with local insights. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day on one of Australia’s most picturesque drives.