Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary with 12 Apostles from Melbourne

Overview of the Tour Experience

If you’re dreaming of seeing the famous Great Ocean Road, but want to skip the driving hassle, this full-day tour from Melbourne is a solid choice. Priced at just over $98 per person, it offers a 13-hour adventure that takes you to Australia’s most photographed coastal sights. The big draw here is the reverse itinerary, which means you start with the popular 12 Apostles early in the morning—when crowds are smaller—and then explore the lush rainforests and charming coastal towns later in the day.

What we particularly like are two things: the intimate experience at key landmarks because of fewer travelers and the knowledgeable guides who enrich the journey with stories and insights. Plus, the inclusion of a light picnic lunch and morning tea makes it feel less like a rushed tour and more like a day of discovery.

One thing to consider is the long duration—if you’re not a fan of very full days or long bus rides, this might be a bit tiring. Also, the seating capacity of the bus sometimes feels tight, as some reviews note that the back seats are narrow and a bit cramped, especially if you’re on the larger side.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of scenic vistas, wildlife spotting, and cultural stories, all delivered by guides who are both informative and personable. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience without the stress of self-driving.

Key Points

• Reverse itinerary for fewer crowds at iconic sites like the 12 Apostles
• Includes a light picnic lunch and morning tea, adding value and convenience
• Wildlife sightings, particularly koalas along Kennett River, are a highlight
• Great for travelers who prefer guided experiences with knowledgeable guides
• Long but rewarding day, suitable for those comfortable with 13-hour trips
• Comfort and capacity of the bus can be a concern for some guests

Detailed Review of the Tour

The Starting Point and Early Morning Departure

Your day begins bright and early at the Immigration Museum on Flinders Street in Melbourne, with a departure time around 7:35 am. This timing is strategic—by leaving early, you beat the crowds at several sites and make the most of daylight hours. The bus, which accommodates up to 28 travelers, features onboard WiFi and USB ports, making the long drive a bit more pleasant.

While some reviews mention that the bus can be crowded—particularly in the back seats—most travelers appreciate the comfortable, roomy seats and the fact that the driver/guide, such as Chris or Kiwi, provides engaging commentary throughout. The experience feels well-organized, with the schedule running smoothly, and many guests remark on the punctuality, returning to Melbourne around 8 pm.

The 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

The first major stop, the 12 Apostles, truly lives up to its reputation. You’ll get to see these limestone stacks in the soft morning light, often with fewer people around, which makes for great photos. One reviewer exclaimed, “This experience you shouldn’t miss,” emphasizing the magnificent vistas and the overall sense of awe.

You also have the option to add a helicopter ride—an extra cost—to see the formations from above for a different perspective. Our guides make sure you have enough time here to soak in the views, take photos, and listen to the stories of how these stacks formed and their significance.

Next, the tour ventures down to Loch Ard Gorge, where the story of shipwrecks and survival adds a touch of drama. Walking down to the beach, you can feel the weight of history and picture the dramatic shipwreck of the Loch Ard in 1878. Many guests appreciate the 45-minute stop here, enough to explore the beach and learn the tale of Tom and Eva, making it more than just a pretty sight.

Morning Tea and WWI Memorial

A charming 15-minute stop at the WWI Memorial provides a brief but meaningful break. It’s an opportunity to stretch your legs, reflect on the history, and enjoy some morning tea provided by the tour. Some reviews mention the guide’s storytelling, which adds depth to what might otherwise be just another photo stop.

Exploring Great Otway National Park

After leaving the coast, the tour heads into the Great Otway National Park, where the lush forests, waterfalls, and giant ferns evoke a sense of wilderness. At this stop, lasting around 45 minutes, you’ll walk through some of the most beautiful rainforest scenery on the route. Guests are often captivated by the drama of mossy gullies and tall trees that seem to stretch endlessly upward.

Tour guides like Kiwi or Nial share local insights and fun facts about the native flora and fauna. Many travelers note that this is a highlight, especially if you enjoy nature and gentle hikes.

Wye River and Wildlife Spotting

One of the tour’s special touches is the chance to spot wild koalas along the Kennett River. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, guides are well-versed in the best locations for spotting koalas, and some reports mention encounters with these adorable creatures.

A dedicated 20-minute stop at Wye River offers more opportunities for photos and wildlife viewing. Guests love these moments of serenity and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat, as one reviewer put it, “We were lucky enough to see a Koala!”

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway

No trip along this coast is complete without a photo at the Memorial Archway, marking the original starting point of the road built by soldiers after WWI. It’s a poignant symbol of Australian resilience and history. The stop here, lasting 30 minutes, is perfect for some photos and a quick lesson on the road’s significance, as one reviewer appreciated.

The Drive Back and Reflection

As you head back toward Melbourne, the last hours of the tour are a chance to relax, chat about the day’s highlights, and review all the beautiful sights, stories, and wildlife encounters. Several guests mention how the tour’s balance of structured stops and free time made the long day enjoyable without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Tour

At just over $98, this guided tour offers remarkable value considering the entry fees, transportation, and guided commentary included. The fact that you skip the stress of driving and navigation, while still enjoying an immersive experience, makes it especially appealing. Guests repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides—such as Kiwi, Peter, or Nial—for their storytelling, humor, and attentiveness.

The inclusion of a light picnic lunch and morning tea adds convenience, letting you enjoy the scenery without worrying about meals. Plus, the small group size—max 28 travelers—helps foster a friendly atmosphere and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

What Could Be Better?

A common concern among some reviews revolves around bus comfort and capacity. With 28 travelers squeezed into one vehicle, some guests found the back seats a bit tight, especially for a 9-11 hour day. If you value extra legroom or are sensitive to seating arrangements, this is worth considering.

Plus, the long hours mean this tour is best suited for those comfortable with extended bus rides and full days. If you prefer more leisure or shorter excursions, you might find this tour a bit intensive.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to experience Australia’s iconic coast with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. It suits those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and history, and appreciate the convenience of an organized day out. If you’re okay with a long day and want to avoid the hassle of self-driving, this tour hits many of the highlights efficiently.

It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer small groups, or those who value guided commentary that enriches the scenery with stories. If you’re after authentic encounters with wildlife like koalas, and stunning vistas, this trip won’t disappoint.

Final Thoughts

This Great Ocean Road reverse itinerary tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to see one of Australia’s most celebrated coastlines. You’ll get to enjoy fewer crowds at the 12 Apostles, marvel at Loch Ard Gorge, and soak in the lush rainforest of Otway National Park—all in a single, carefully curated day.

The guides’ expertise shines through, making the journey more engaging and informative. The included lunch and morning tea add a layer of comfort, and the opportunity to spot native wildlife makes this tour special.

While the bus capacity and long hours might be considerations for some, overall, this tour offers exceptional value for anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic, and scenic Australian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all national park entry fees, a light picnic lunch, morning tea, and guided commentary. Personal expenses and meals not specified are not included.

How long is the drive?
The total duration is approximately 13 hours, including stops. The bus ride is long, but breaks help make it manageable.

Can I add extras like helicopter rides?
Yes, there are optional extras, such as helicopter rides over the 12 Apostles, available to book separately.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the forecast—layers are always wise, and sturdy shoes are recommended for walks.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, the bus features WiFi and USB charging ports to keep devices powered during the long journey.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with manageable group dynamics.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I join the tour if I don’t have a car in Melbourne?
Yes, the meeting point at Flinders Street Station is accessible by public transport, making it easy to join without renting a vehicle.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most reviews say yes, with guides ensuring sufficient time to explore, take photos, and listen to stories. However, some suggest that more time at the Apostles could enhance the experience.

This guided tour of the Great Ocean Road in reverse offers a thoughtful way to experience Australia’s stunning coast without the hassle of self-driving, all while benefiting from expert guides and thoughtfully curated stops. Whether you’re after iconic vistas, wildlife encounters, or a taste of local history, it delivers a memorable day out.