Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight)

Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight): A Detailed Review

Imagine soaring over the iconic Great Ocean Road, with its winding cliffs, rocky formations, and sweeping coastal views, all from the comfort of a private helicopter. At the heart of this experience is a 45-minute helicopter flight from Melbourne that takes you directly to the 12 Apostles, one of Australia’s most celebrated natural wonders. For about five hours in total, you’ll enjoy a combination of breathtaking aerial vistas, scenic ground visits, and optional adventures that make this tour truly special.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the exclusive nature—you’re flying in a private helicopter reserved just for your group, ensuring a smooth, intimate ride. Second, the up-close access—spending up to 2 hours on the ground at the Apostles or taking the secret walk down Gibson Steps gives an authentic feel of these towering rocks from sea level.

A potential consideration? The price—at over $2,200 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see the coast. However, the level of privacy, personalized service, and the combination of aerial and ground perspectives justify the cost for many travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This tour is ideal for those who value private, high-end experiences and want to see the Great Ocean Road’s highlights with the added thrill of a helicopter flight. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an extraordinary adventure, this tour appeals to travelers who appreciate quality, exclusivity, and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Exclusive private helicopter ensures a personalized, smooth flight experience.
• Up to 2 hours on the ground allows for detailed exploration, including the Gibson Steps walk.
• Optional premium tours include a scenic winery lunch or Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.
• Expert guides and pilots received praise for professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness.
• Stunning aerial views of the Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and more.
• Price reflects luxury – great for travelers seeking a premium, tailor-made adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour

Starting Point and Flight Experience

The adventure begins at Rotor One – Melbourne Helicopter Rides, located at Essendon Fields. Here, you’ll meet your pilot, and after a quick safety briefing, settle into your reserved private helicopter. Expect the journey to last about 1 hour and 15 minutes in the air, during which you’ll soar over the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives.

We loved how the noise-cancelling Bose headsets allowed us to hear the pilot’s commentary clearly while fully immersing in the incredible views. The guaranteed window seat ensures you’ll have the best possible vantage point—no fighting for a spot or worrying about blocking someone’s view.

The Flight Over the Great Ocean Road

Flying from Melbourne, you’ll immediately notice how the coastline unfurls beneath you—cliffs, forests, and the rugged shoreline. The pilot, described as professional, courteous, and interactive, enhances the experience with insightful commentary. One review noted, “Harry, great job flying and thanks for arranging our Vineyard lunch,” highlighting the personal touch pilots bring.

This aerial perspective is truly breathtaking. It’s the perfect way to grasp the scale and grandeur of the rock formations and winding coastlines that are otherwise challenging to appreciate from the ground.

Landing at the 12 Apostles and On-Ground Exploration

Landing directly at the 12 Apostles Helipad offers a rare and exclusive experience. You get up to 2 hours to explore the area, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. You can walk down the Gibson Steps—a secret walk that takes you down to sea level, offering a dramatic close-up of the towering limestone stacks. One guest quoted, “Seeing the Twelve Apostles from the air was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” and the walk down Gibson Steps makes it even more personal.

Other stops include Loch Ard Gorge, known for its stunning beach and history, and London Bridge, famously collapsing in 1990, leaving a few stranded until rescue. The Grotto, a sinkhole formation, and the Bay of Martyrs provide fantastic photo ops and scenic beauty. The coastline near Peterborough, with its rock stacks and sheltered bays, rounds out the exploration with scenic lookouts and small beaches.

Optional Tours for an Extended Day

The tour offers two exciting options:

• Private Winery Lunch: After the coastal tour, land at a local winery for a gourmet lunch paired with wines. Reviews mention Harry’s professionalism in arranging this, although meals and drinks are charged separately. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting a luxurious touch.

• Phillip Island Penguin Parade: Alternatively, you can be dropped off at Phillip Island for the world-famous Penguin Parade, including a scenic flight over the island, premium viewing seats, and a guided ranger tour. This adds a different dimension, especially if you love wildlife.

The Overall Value and Experience

At $2,240.29 per person, this experience is undoubtedly premium. But considering the private helicopter, the customized itinerary, and the personalized attention, many find it a worthwhile splurge. The reviews consistently praise guides and pilots for their professionalism and enthusiasm, which significantly enhances the experience.

It’s also important to note that most travelers book this tour 59 days in advance, indicating its popularity among those seeking a truly special day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This VIP helicopter tour is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a luxurious, private experience with personalized service.
• Cherish stunning aerial views combined with extensive time on the ground.
• Are interested in wine, wildlife, or iconic coastal formations and want to include optional activities.
• Are celebrating a special occasion such as an anniversary or birthday and want a memorable story.

If you’re a bit of an enthusiast for scenic landscapes and exclusive adventures, this tour will tick all your boxes.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Price: While on the higher end, the ticket price reflects the private nature and high-quality service. If you’re traveling with a group, booking for multiple people might be more economical per person.
• Weather dependency: This experience is weather-dependent; if clouds or wind cancel your flight, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
• Booking in advance: Given the popularity (booked on average 59 days ahead), planning early is recommended.
• Meals and drinks: If you opt for the winery lunch, expect additional costs.
• Physical activity: The walk down Gibson Steps involves some steps and uneven terrain but is manageable for most.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The helicopter flight from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including the scenic flight over the coast.

What does the on-ground time include?
You’ll have up to 2 hours to explore the area, walk down Gibson Steps, or visit viewing platforms, providing plenty of time for photos and sightseeing.

Can I visit the Penguin Parade?
Yes, you can choose the optional Penguin Parade tour, which includes a scenic flight over Phillip Island, premium viewing seats, and a ranger-guided tour.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch at the winery is optional and charged separately, but the tour can include a private landing for a gourmet meal and wine tasting.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those who are uncomfortable with heights, walking on uneven surfaces, or have mobility issues should consider these factors.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour offers an exceptional way to see one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of a private helicopter, extensive ground time, and optional add-ons like wine tasting or penguin viewing makes it a versatile experience tailored for those seeking luxury and authenticity.

While the price might seem steep, the level of personalization, stunning views, and the chance to experience the coast from sea level and the sky make it a memorable investment. Whether celebrating a special moment or craving a unique adventure, this tour is well worth considering for its exclusivity and breathtaking scenery.

If you appreciate professional guides, spectacular views, and luxury touches, this tour will delight. For those on a tighter budget or seeking a more active, self-guided experience, there are many alternatives, but none quite match the comfort and intimacy this VIP adventure offers.

Note: All details are based on current information, and it’s always good to double-check availability and weather conditions before booking.