Melbourne: Helicopter Tour to 12 Apostles & Great Ocean Rd

Planning a trip to Victoria and want to see one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines from above? This helicopter tour promises an incredible four-hour adventure that combines panoramic views, a touch of luxury, and the chance to explore one of Australia’s most photographed natural wonders—the 12 Apostles.

While we haven’t flown this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews, expert pilot commentary, and thoughtfully crafted itinerary suggest it’s a standout experience for anyone looking to elevate their sightseeing game.

What we love about this tour is the stunning aerial perspective of the coast, the opportunity to land right at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre, and the personalized nature of a private group flight. The only possible consideration is that it’s a costly experience ($2,501 for up to three people), but when you weigh that against the extraordinary views and exclusive access, it’s often seen as a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or luxury travel.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave memorable, picture-perfect moments, enjoy scenic adventures, and appreciate a touch of luxury without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re seeking a unique, high-end way to see the Great Ocean Road and its famed rock formations, this helicopter experience is worth considering.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Flight: You’ll fly in a private helicopter with guaranteed window seats, offering unobstructed views.
• Incredible Aerial Views: Fly past Melbourne, Bells Beach, Wye River, Cape Otway Lightstation, and the stunning 12 Apostles.
• Ground Exploration: Land at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre and explore some of the best lookout spots and walking tracks.
• Time-efficient: The 2.5-hour flight is packed with scenic highlights, making it a comprehensive way to see the coast.
• Expert Pilot & Commentary: Your pilot provides engaging, knowledgeable commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Sustainable Travel: The tour is carbon neutral, adding an eco-conscious touch to your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Departure from Essendon Airport

Your adventure begins at Hangar 81 in Essendon Fields—a convenient spot with plenty of parking. The tour voucher states that you’ll be greeted and briefed here before boarding your private helicopter. It’s a relaxed start, with ample time to settle in and get comfortable, knowing you’re about to witness some of Australia’s most stunning coastal scenery.

The Scenic Helicopter Flight: Melbourne to the Coast

Once in the air, you’ll fly over Melbourne’s cityscape, giving you a rare perspective of its sprawling skyline, a view often hidden from ground level. The flight then heads southwest along the coast, following the Great Ocean Road route—one of the most scenic drives in the world.

The pilot’s commentary adds a layer of insight, pointing out landmarks such as Bells Beach, famed for its surfing waves, and the charming towns of Lorne and Wye River—each with their own laid-back charm. The flight path takes you past wreck Beach and the Cape Otway Lightstation, where the views of remote beaches and rugged cliffs are breathtaking.

The Landing at the 12 Apostles

After approximately 1.5 hours in the air, the helicopter gently lands at the 12 Apostles Heliport. Here, you get about an hour on the ground, which is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the scale and beauty of these limestone stacks from the ground level.

Many reviews mention how special it is to see the formations up close, rather than solely from the air. The viewing platform at the visitor centre provides excellent vantage points, and you can take a few minutes to just absorb the scenery.

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Optional Walks and Views

For those feeling active, there’s a short 7-minute walk to Castle Rock lookout, which offers a different perspective with dramatic rock formations and coastal views. If you prefer a longer adventure, the Gibson Steps track, taking around 35 minutes, allows you to descend to the beach to see the stacks from below—a rare opportunity not available from the air.

Returning in Style

After your ground exploration, your helicopter continues along the coast to view the 12 Apostles from above again, offering multiple perspectives on these geological marvels. The return journey takes you inland through rural Victoria, providing a different scenic backdrop before returning to Essendon Airport.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package:

• A 2.5-hour scenic helicopter flight with guaranteed window seats and expert pilot commentary.
• Landing at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre with about an hour on the ground.
• The experience is carbon neutral, appealing to eco-conscious travelers.
• A private helicopter, making the experience intimate and flexible.
• Up to 3 passengers per booking, ensuring a personalized experience.

Not included:

• Hotel pickup or drop-off—so you’ll need to organize your transport to Essendon Airport.
• Additional activities or meals aren’t part of the package, but with the time on the ground, you can explore the visitor centre and nearby viewpoints at your leisure.

Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour departs from Hangar 81 at Essendon Fields, a straightforward location with easy parking. The hangar is to the left of the big Bombardier hangar, with clear signage. It’s a simple check-in process, and the staff seem friendly and professional.

Timing & Weather Considerations

Tours are typically available in the morning or afternoon, lasting about four hours total. The flight duration in the air is approximately 2.5 hours, with the rest allocated to ground time. Keep in mind that weather plays a crucial role—cloud cover or thunderstorms might lead to rescheduling, so flexibility is advised.

Weight & Group Size

The maximum weight per passenger is 136 kg (300 lbs), with a combined group weight limit of 250 kg. This ensures safety and comfort for everyone onboard. The tour is strictly private, so you won’t be sharing the sky with strangers, adding to the feeling of exclusivity.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable pilot, Johan, who is praised for his friendly demeanor and detailed commentary. One reviewer from Singapore mentioned that Johan made several rounds around the 12 Apostles and coast to optimize photo opportunities, which is a huge plus for photography enthusiasts.

Travelers also appreciate the stunning views—many describe the coast as “absolutely fantastic” and note that the aerial perspective reveals formations and vistas impossible to appreciate from the ground alone.

The experience’s value is often justified by the personalized, flexible flight and the scenic richness. While the price tag might seem high, reviews suggest that the quality of the flight, the exclusivity of a private experience, and the opportunity to see the coast from multiple angles make it worthwhile.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This helicopter tour is ideal for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of Victoria’s coastline. It’s perfect for photographers eager to capture the 12 Apostles from different heights or anyone who loves a touch of luxury paired with natural beauty.

Travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with expert guidance will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with weight restrictions and weather-dependent scheduling.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an unforgettable view of the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles—with the added thrill of flying in a private helicopter—this tour offers excellent value. It combines scenic beauty, personalized service, and a touch of luxury, making it a memorable highlight of any Australian trip.

While it’s a significant investment, the quality of the experience, the expert pilot, and the exclusive access to iconic landmarks make it a compelling choice for those who want to see Victoria’s coast from a whole new perspective.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prize authentic, scenic adventures and are willing to splurge for a unique perspective on one of the world’s most stunning coastal landscapes. The combination of aerial views, ground exploration, and personalized service ensures it’s a rich, well-rounded experience for anyone seeking more than just a typical sightseeing trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour departs from Essendon Airport, so travelers need to arrange their own transport to the hangar.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The scenic flight lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing ample time to see Melbourne, the coast, and the 12 Apostles from above.

Can I go on the tour if I’m afraid of heights?
While it’s not explicitly stated, helicopter rides can be intense for those with fear of heights. You might find the experience exhilarating rather than frightening, but it’s best to assess your comfort level.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Tours are typically available in the morning or afternoon. Weather conditions are a factor, so flexibility and checking availability are recommended.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 3 years old are not suitable, and the tour has a weight limit of 136kg/300lbs per person. It’s designed for those who can meet these safety requirements.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent and might need rescheduling due to low cloud or thunderstorms, so keeping your schedule flexible is wise.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to elevate your sightseeing experience, this helicopter tour offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Victoria’s stunning coastline and the world-famous 12 Apostles.

You can check availability for your dates here: