Private One Day Great Ocean Road Tour (12 Hour)

A comprehensive look at the Private One Day Great Ocean Road Tour (12 Hour)

Travelers looking to explore the iconic Great Ocean Road in style and comfort will find this full-day private tour from Melbourne quite appealing. With a dedicated guide and the flexibility of a personalized itinerary, this experience promises a scenic, informative, and hassle-free adventure through one of Australia’s most celebrated coastal routes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guide means tailored attention and the ability to adjust stops to your interests — whether you’re keen on wildlife, photography, or simply soaking in the views. Second, the extensive itinerary covers top highlights such as the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Otway National Park, all within a manageable 12 hours. Lastly, the value is notable, considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, park fees, bottled water, and private transport, all wrapped into an affordable price.

Of course, the long driving hours—roughly 8-9 hours in the vehicle—may be a consideration for those sensitive to motion or who prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, food isn’t included, so packing a snack or planning for lunch in Apollo Bay ensures you won’t go hungry.

This tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see a lot, those who appreciate private, flexible travel experiences, or anyone wanting the convenience of door-to-door service without the hassle of self-driving. Let’s explore what makes this tour a standout choice for your Great Ocean Road adventure.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated guide in a private vehicle.
• Extensive itinerary covering the most iconic sights along the coast in one day.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Melbourne CBD for maximum convenience.
• Includes park fees and bottled water — no hidden extras.
• Flexible stops and options to spend extra time at certain locations.
• Long but scenic day, so be prepared for over 500 km of travel.

An In-Depth Review of the Great Ocean Road Private Tour

The Flexibility of a Private Guide

The biggest draw of this tour is the personalized approach. Unlike large bus groups, this experience is tailored to your pace and interests. Reviewers have praised guides for their knowledgeable, polite, and attentive service. One even noted how the guide went “out of his way to ensure they had a wonderful journey,” highlighting the level of care involved.

This setup is perfect if you want to focus on certain stops, take extra photos, or just enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. With a private vehicle, you get the flexibility to spend more time at places like Bells Beach or Loch Ard Gorge if desired.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

This tour packs in a hefty amount of sightseeing, making it a good option for those eager to see as much as possible in a single day.

Starting with the main stretch of the Great Ocean Road, you’ll sit back and enjoy the scenic drive, which takes about six hours with stops. The journey itself offers stunning ocean views, cliffside vistas, and the chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of Australia’s south coast.

Lorne Beach is your first stop, a bustling coastal town where you can stretch your legs and admire the expansive beach. Just 10 minutes here, but enough to picture yourself relaxing on the sand.

Next, Teddy’s Lookout provides a fantastic vantage point over Lorne and the surrounding countryside. This quick 10-minute stop offers panoramic views perfect for photos.

Bells Beach is a highlight for surfers and ocean lovers alike, famed worldwide for its surfing competitions. The brief stop here is an excellent chance to see surfers in action and feel the powerful waves.

Point Addis Marine National Park and nearby Point Roadknight offer a chance to explore rock pools and nature, with some stops possible upon request. The Great Ocean Walk, a one-hour stretch, provides a short but immersive walk along the coast—weather permitting.

Split Point Lighthouse is a classic photo spot, with its historic tower perched above the cliffs. Reviewers mention capturing great shots here, and one noted it’s a “major landmark.”

Wildlife spotting is another feature, especially at Kennett River, where guides are well-versed in finding koalas—though, as one reviewer mentioned, they’re now only about 80,000 left in the wild, making sightings special.

In Apollo Bay, you’ll pause for about 45 minutes for lunch, giving you time to enjoy local cafes or bring your own picnic. The town itself offers charming streets and coastal views.

Loch Ard Gorge, the site of a famous shipwreck, is a must-see. The dramatic cliffs and history make this a favorite for many visitors, with a 15-minute stop to soak in the scenery.

Post-lunch, the tour visits Mait’s Rest, an easy 25-minute walk through lush rainforest, which many reviewers find beautiful and calming.

Cape Patton Lookout then offers a final panoramic view, and the Great Otway National Park provides a three-hour drive-through experience—an ideal chance to appreciate the dense forests and diverse landscapes.

Further stops at Castle Cove and Melba Gully deepen your rainforest experience, with the latter offering a choice between lush environments and the more tranquil Maits Rest walk.

Unique Highlights and Special Touches

The tour’s length and scope mean you get a thorough experience without rushing. The inclusion of park fees, bottled water, and hotel pickups streamlines the day, adding real value. One reviewer appreciated the flexibility to move at their own speed, reinforcing how this private tour enhances comfort and enjoyment.

The guides’ expertise shines here. They’re often praised for their local knowledge and friendly manner, making the long driving segments feel engaging rather than tedious. The guides also know the best spots for wildlife and photography, which really elevates the experience.

The Iconic Twelve Apostles and Marine National Park

The Twelve Apostles are the tour’s pièce de résistance, and you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the area. From the boardwalk vantage points, the towering limestone stacks against the ocean backdrop are breathtaking.

The tour even includes multiple visits to the Marine National Park to see other rock formations in the area, providing various perspectives of this natural wonder. Reviewers often highlight the spectacular views and the chance for memorable photos.

Additional Stops and Optional Extras

If you’re interested in extending your experience, an optional visit to London Bridge is available, though it requires an extra hour. Plus, the Melbourne Skydeck or Royal Botanic Gardens can be added at the end of your day, perfect for winding down or seeing the city from above.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Transport is in a private vehicle, making the journey comfortable, and pick-up is available from selected Melbourne hotels. The start time is 7:00 am, so be prepared for a long, full day. Due to the 500+ kilometers covered, the drive can be tiring, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness, which is something to consider.

Food and drinks are not included, but plenty of cafes and eateries are available in Apollo Bay, so bring some snacks or plan ahead. Reviewers mention the value for money, considering the included park fees, water, and the personalized service.

The longer stops and flexibility mean you could potentially spend extra time at your favorite locations, though the schedule is tight. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown rather than a relaxed, slow-paced exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour favors those who want to maximize their time and see as much as possible. It suits travelers who dislike the hassle of self-driving but want the comfort and flexibility of a personalized experience. It’s perfect for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore iconic sights with expert guidance.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, or are sensitive to long car rides, this might be a bit intense. The absence of food included is also worth noting, so plan accordingly.

FAQs

Q: Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
A: Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Melbourne’s CBD for select hotels, making it very convenient.

Q: How long is the total driving time?
A: Expect around 8-9 hours of driving over approximately 500+ kilometers, with stops along the way.

Q: Are park fees included?
A: Yes, all national park fees are included in the tour price, so no extra charges at the sites.

Q: Can I customize the stops?
A: The tour is private, so guides are happy to adjust the itinerary and include extra time at your preferred locations when possible.

Q: What’s the best time to book this tour?
A: Starting at 7:00 am, it’s ideal if you want a full day of sightseeing. Confirm your pickup time when booking.

Q: Are meals included?
A: No, food and drinks are not included, but plenty of options are available in Apollo Bay and nearby stops.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: The minimum age is 12, so it’s best suited for older children and teenagers who can handle a long, scenic day.

To sum it up, this private Great Ocean Road tour offers an impressive blend of convenience, personalized attention, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of self-driving, especially if they value flexible stops and expert guidance. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this experience delivers a memorable, well-rounded day immersed in Australia’s stunning coastal landscapes.