Private Great Ocean Road Day Extended Tour With Early Departure (13 Hours)

Exploring the Great Ocean Road: An Honest Review of the Private Extended Day Tour

Taking a day to explore the iconic Great Ocean Road can be an unforgettable experience, and this private, extended tour from Melbourne promises just that. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a thoughtfully curated journey designed for those who want more than just a quick look. It’s perfect for travelers craving in-depth sights, comfort, and the chance to beat the crowds.

What we love most about this tour: first, the early start means you get the best lighting and fewer travelers at popular spots; second, the personalized guide makes all the difference, offering tailored insights and local knowledge; and third, the extended sightseeing time allows you to linger at key locations, truly soaking in the scenery. A potential consideration is the long driving hours—over 8 hours on the road—which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to car sickness or prefer more relaxed pacing.

This tour is ideal for adventurous couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a personalized experience and aren’t in a rush. It’s especially great if you’re keen on capturing stunning photos, spotting wildlife, and learning the stories behind each landmark. If you’re after a stress-free, in-depth day with a knowledgeable guide, this could very well be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience ensures personalized attention and expert insights.
• Early departure offers fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
• Extended sightseeing provides more time at key locations like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off minimizes hassle.
• Inclusion of rainforest walk and wildlife spotting adds unique, authentic touches.
• Cost-effective at $85 considering the comprehensive itinerary and personalized service.

Why You’ll Want to Choose This Tour

The 13-hour private tour from Melbourne is designed for those who want to see the Great Ocean Road without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The early start at 6:30 am (with pickup from your hotel) means you avoid peak crowds and get prime lighting conditions for photos and sightseeing. Many reviews highlight this advantage, with one mentioning how they arrived at iconic spots like Split Point Lighthouse before the crowds, thanks to the early departure.

The private guide is a huge plus, offering tailored commentary, local tips, and a flexible pace. One reviewer shared that their guide, James, used a satellite weather app to dodge storms—an example of the kind of personalized care that elevates this experience. The guide’s knowledge about the area’s natural beauty and history makes each stop more meaningful.

Most travelers love the extended 6 hours of outside-the-vehicle sightseeing — it’s double the time of standard tours, giving you ample opportunity to explore, take photos, and relax. Whether it’s wandering around Loch Ard Gorge, venturing down Gibson’s Steps, or soaking in the views from Cape Patton Lookout, there’s plenty of time to enjoy each spot without feeling hurried.

What Makes the Itinerary Stand Out

Starting Early at Torquay and the Surf Coast

The adventure begins at Torquay, the surfing capital of Australia, where your guide might take you on a quick wildlife search for kangaroos in the wild—a treat for nature lovers. Many guests appreciated this, noting that the guide’s timing and satellite weather checks often helped them avoid rain, especially in winter. It’s a small detail, but it adds a layer of reliability to the experience.

Next, brief stops at Anglesea Beach and Fairhaven Beach give picturesque views of the coastline and a chance to stretch your legs. The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, seen as the official start, offers insight into the historic construction of this engineering marvel—more than 100 years old. It’s a symbolic beginning that you’ll appreciate for its story as much as the scenery.

The Scenic Drive from Lorne to Apollo Bay

One of the most visually stunning sections of the tour is from Lorne to Apollo Bay—cliffs, ocean vistas, and winding coastal roads that are perfect for photos. With the extra time, you can linger at viewpoints, capturing the rugged beauty of this stretch. Many reviewers highlighted how the extended time made a noticeable difference: “The part from Lorne to Apollo Bay was one of the most beautiful and was more than just a quick glance,” one said.

Wildlife and Rainforest Experiences

Kennett River is often praised as a highlight—an excellent spot to observe koalas in the wild. The guide’s knowledge about local wildlife meant guests could spot and learn about these charming creatures in their natural habitat. Plus, the Mait’s Rest rainforest walk offers a 25-minute guided trek through lush greenery, providing a refreshing contrast to the coastal views. Reviewers loved this element, noting the guide’s storytelling added depth to the experience.

Iconic Landmarks and Unique Formations

The tour’s core includes visits to the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibsons Steps—places that are genuinely breathtaking. The Twelve Apostles are formed by 16,000 years of erosion, and with the extra time, visitors can appreciate these towering limestone stacks from different angles, including from the beach at Gibsons Steps.

Loch Ard Gorge, with its shipwreck history and multi-viewpoints, offers a mix of natural beauty and storytelling. One reviewer remarked that the 45-minute stop was just right to explore without feeling rushed. Similarly, the London Bridge rock formation has an intriguing history, including its recent partial collapse and the dramatic rescue of stranded travelers by helicopter.

The Yatzies Aussie Lunch & Optional Helicopter Flight

A notable feature is the Aussie-themed lunch stop at Yatzies, where you can indulge in a beef pie, burger, or schnitzel burger. Many appreciate this as a chance to refuel, especially since the tour involves a full day of sightseeing. It also adds a cultural touch, making the experience more authentic.

For those interested in a bird’s-eye view, the 12 Apostles helicopter ride is available as an optional upgrade, with multiple flight durations. The company boasts a stellar safety record and offers a memorable way to see the coastline from above. Guests can reserve their flight on the day, adding a special, personal touch to the tour.

Returning Through Farmland and Coastal Countryside

The drive back to Melbourne goes through Victoria’s farmland, featuring dairy farms, cattle, sheep, and crops. This scenic drive is relaxed, giving you a glimpse of rural Australia and a chance to unwind after an action-packed day.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transport and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, offering a comfortable ride for over 500 kilometers of travel. The hotel pickup and drop-off service means you won’t need to worry about logistics—just relax and enjoy the journey. The guides are attentive to timing, with pickup details confirmed the evening before, ensuring a smooth start.

Price and Value

At just $85, this tour offers impressive value. For that price, you get a private guide, snacks, bottled water, and access to many key attractions, plus the potential for an optional helicopter flight. The extended sightseeing time means you’re not rushed through popular spots, making it a worthwhile investment if you want a thorough exploration without the hassle of self-driving.

Suitability and Considerations

Given the long driving hours, this tour may not suit everyone, especially those prone to car sickness. It’s a full day on the road—if you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider the two-day options. Children under 12 are not permitted, so it’s best for ages 12 and up. Weather conditions are also a factor; the guide uses satellite data to avoid storms, but poor weather could still impact the experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private, extended Great Ocean Road tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized attention, in-depth exploration, and early access to top sights. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo adventurers looking for a high-quality experience that covers more ground and offers flexibility.

If you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy knowledgeable guides, and have plenty of time at each stop—including rainforest walks, wildlife sightings, and iconic landmarks—this tour will meet those expectations. The optional helicopter ride adds a special touch for those wanting a spectacular aerial view of the coast.

While the long hours may not suit everyone—particularly those sensitive to car rides—it offers a comprehensive, authentic way to experience Australia’s most famous coastline in comfort and style.

FAQs

What is the starting time for this tour?
Pickup is at 6:30 am from your Melbourne hotel, ensuring an early start to beat the crowds and catch the best light at key sites.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within the CBD, Southbank, or Docklands are included, making the experience hassle-free.

How long is the driving component?
The tour covers over 500 kilometers, with approximately 8 hours of driving, which allows for a detailed exploration but may not suit everyone.

What attractions are included?
Stops include Torquay, Anglesea Beach, Fairhaven Beach, the Memorial Arch, Lorne Beach, Kennett River, Cape Patton Lookout, Apollo Bay, Mait’s Rest rainforest walk, Gibson’s Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, Razorback, and Yatzies for lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour.

Can I add a helicopter flight?
Yes, the 12 Apostles helicopter ride is available as an optional extra, with durations of 15, 25, or 60 minutes, which you can book on the day.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather. Layers and waterproof gear are advisable.

Are snacks and water provided?
Yes, snacks and bottled water are included throughout the day.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if weather affects safety or visibility, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or a different date.

This private Great Ocean Road extended tour offers an engaging, thorough way to experience one of Australia’s most stunning coastal drives. With its combination of early access, personalized guide service, and ample sightseeing time, it’s especially suited for travelers craving an authentic, in-depth adventure.