Planning a trip along Australia’s iconic coastline? This Great Ocean Road Reverse & Helicopter Experience promises a streamlined adventure focusing on the highlights, with the bonus of aerial views that transform spectacular rock formations into unforgettable images. While it’s not a lengthy tour, it packs in plenty of memorable moments, making it a popular choice for travelers who want a taste of the coast without spending a full day on the road.

What we love about this experience is its focus on key sights—cutting down travel time to maximize your time at each location. The small group setting keeps things intimate, and the option to add a helicopter ride offers a breathtaking perspective on the coastline. However, keep in mind that this tour relies on a direct inland route, which may mean less time on some of the more remote or less accessible spots. This tour suits visitors who want a concise, high-impact trip with stunning photo opportunities and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

Concise and focused: Highlights of the Great Ocean Road without long hours on the road
Aerial views: Optional helicopter ride offers a dramatic perspective of landmarks
Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience
Small group format: Ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere
Flexible pickup options: Multiple Melbourne CBD locations and hotel pickups available
Good value: Combines walking, sightseeing, and helicopter with minimal time investment

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

This tour is designed for travelers who want to see the major highlights of the Great Ocean Road efficiently. In approximately 10 hours, you’ll visit iconic spots like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. The tour’s direct inland route ensures you spend less time in transit and more at each attraction, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule or who prefer a more streamlined experience.

How It All Fits Together

The day kicks off with pickup options at key locations in Melbourne CBD, including 377 Lonsdale St, 131 Bourke St, 56 Spencer St, or central Melbourne. From there, the comfortable bus journey of about three hours takes you along the inland route, bypassing the often crowded coastal stretches. This means fewer delays and a more direct path to the coast’s highlights.

Guided on foot at the key stops, you’ll walk around the 12 Apostles, capturing its towering limestone stacks at your own pace, while guides share insights into the formation and history of these remarkable structures. The Port Campbell visit offers a glimpse into the local landscape and geology, with a timed guided tour to maximize your limited stop time.

The Highlights and What You’ll See

The 12 Apostles

Arguably the most famous feature of the coast, the 12 Apostles are a cluster of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the ocean. The tour allows about 45 minutes for walking and photographs, providing enough time to appreciate the grandeur and snap some postcard-worthy shots. Past travelers often comment on the spectacular views, noting that the proximity of the stacks makes them even more impressive in person.

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Port Campbell

This charming seaside town serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding formations. The guided tour here offers context about the area’s history and geology, enriching your understanding of how these natural sculptures came to be. Some reviews mention that guides are particularly knowledgeable, making the visit more engaging.

The Helicopter Ride (Optional)

One of the standout features of this tour is the optional helicopter flight, which allows you to soar over London Bridge, The Grotto, and the Bay of Islands. Reviewers rave about the breathtaking aerial views—describing it as a highlight that elevates the entire experience. The helicopter ride provides a panoramic perspective that transforms familiar landmarks into awe-inspiring vistas. Keep in mind, however, that this is an optional add-on, so you can choose to skip it if you prefer a more budget-friendly experience.

Loch Ard Gorge and Other Stops

The Loch Ard Gorge, with its striking cliffs and history of shipwrecks, is another highlight. The tour offers a photo stop and guided exploration, giving you a chance to soak in the rugged beauty of this secluded cove. A viewpoint stop later in the day allows for further photography and appreciation of the coastline’s varied geology.

Secret Stop and Additional Photos

Not all details are revealed beforehand, but the tour includes a “secret” stop—a lesser-known spot that offers another unique perspective and fewer crowds. This adds a sense of discovery and exclusivity to the experience.

Practical Details and Logistics

Duration and Schedule

Spanning approximately 10 hours, this tour balances sightseeing with comfort. It begins with pickup in Melbourne around mid-morning, with the first major stop at the 12 Apostles after about three hours on the bus. The day includes lunch at a local restaurant around 2 to 3 pm, giving you a chance to refuel before continuing the exploration. The return journey lasts about 2.5 hours, with drop-offs at the original pickup points.

Transportation and Group Size

The bus is comfortable and well-maintained, designed for scenic comfort and ease of movement. The small group size—often limited to private or small groups—creates a more personalized experience, allowing guides to address individual questions and preferences.

Cost and Value

Considering the cost includes transportation, guided commentary, and the helicopter ride (if opted), the value appears quite reasonable. The tour emphasizes efficiency and high-impact sightseeing, making it a good choice for travelers who want a rundown without the fatigue of a longer trip.

Weather Considerations

Since the tour involves outdoor exploration and optional helicopter flights, travelers are advised to bring windproof or waterproof jackets in case of weather changes. The experience is largely weather-dependent for the helicopter, so flexibility might be necessary.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change. The reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

The Experience From the Reviews

Although only three reviews are available, they paint a clear picture of what to expect. One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guides, noting that the commentary added depth to the sightseeing. Others highlighted the stunning aerial views during the helicopter ride, emphasizing how this perspective made the trip truly special.

A common theme is the balanced itinerary—not too rushed, but enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights and take photos. Several reviews appreciated the small group atmosphere, describing it as friendly and personalized, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for travellers with limited time who still want a meaningful experience of the Great Ocean Road. It suits those who appreciate a mix of ground exploration and aerial adventures, and who value guides with local expertise. If you’re after a more relaxed pace with fewer crowds, the inland route and small group size are significant advantages.

It’s especially good for photographers or sightseers eager to capture the coast’s iconic formations from unique vantage points. However, those seeking a full-day, exhaustive exploration might prefer a longer, more detailed tour. This experience strikes a balance for adventurers who want highlights without the hassle.

The Sum Up

This Great Ocean Road Reverse & Helicopter Experience offers an efficient, exciting way to see some of Australia’s most famous natural wonders. The combination of guided walks, stunning viewpoints, and the optional helicopter ride delivers a well-rounded, memorable day. The small group setting and flexible options make it a comfortable choice for travelers who value personalized attention and authentic experiences.

While it’s not an exhaustive tour of the entire coast, it hits the highlights and provides a spectacular aerial perspective that many other tours lack. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and convenience, this tour is definitely worth considering.

For those who want a shorter, impactful trip with plenty of photo opportunities and expert guides, this experience fits the bill perfectly. Just remember to bring your camera, weather gear, and a sense of curiosity for one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastlines.

FAQ

Is the helicopter ride optional?
Yes, the helicopter ride is an optional add-on. You can choose to do it or skip it depending on your budget and preferences.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup options include four locations within Melbourne CBD: 377 Lonsdale St, 131 Bourke St, 56 Spencer St, or central Melbourne.

Can I arrange a hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickups within the CBD can be arranged for an additional $25. Outside the CBD, private tours can be customized for pickup.

How long is the bus journey?
The bus ride to the coast takes about 3 hours, with a return trip of approximately 2.5 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring a windproof or waterproof jacket in case of weather changes. Snacks are recommended for the longer parts of the day, especially since lunch is later.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll have around 45 minutes at the 12 Apostles, 25 minutes in Port Campbell, and additional stops for photos and guided tours.

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, small private or group tours are available, which helps create a more personalized experience.

What is the tour duration?
The total experience lasts around 10 hours, making it manageable for a full-day adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a focus on photography?
Absolutely. The stops are designed for excellent photo opportunities, especially with the optional helicopter ride offering panoramic views.

This tour offers a smart, scenic way to experience the stunning coastlines of Victoria—perfect for busy travelers who want to make the most of their time.