Private One Day Great Ocean Road Tour (12 Hour)

Discover the Best of the Great Ocean Road on a Private 12-Hour Tour from Melbourne

If you’re looking to see Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery without the hassle of planning multiple stops or sharing a group, this Private One Day Great Ocean Road Tour offers a personalized, comfortable way to explore. For around $360 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours with your own guide, visiting world-famous landmarks like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Cape Patton Lookout, all while enjoying the luxury of hotel pickup and drop-off in Melbourne’s CBD.

What we love most about this tour is the flexibility and intimacy it offers. You can move at your own pace, spend extra time at spots that fascinate you, and enjoy the insights of a guide who truly knows the area. Plus, the comfortable private vehicle ensures you’re not wedged into a crowded coach, making the experience more relaxed and personal.

One potential consideration is the long driving hours—expect over 500 kilometers of travel, which means some might find the day a bit tiring. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more leisurely pace, this is worth considering. But for those eager to pack their day with highlights and authentic scenery, it’s a perfect choice.

This tour suits travelers with limited time in Melbourne who want a comprehensive look at the coast without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially ideal for those who value expert guidance, want to visit iconic landmarks, and appreciate the privacy of a tailored experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a flexible, well-organized day will find it particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure a customized day suited to your interests.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major highlights like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Otway National Park, and more.
• Flexibility at Stops: Ability to spend extra time at spots like the lighthouse or rainforest walk.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes park fees, bottled water, hotel pickup/drop-off, and transportation.
• Long Day but Worthwhile: Over 500 km traveled, so be prepared for a full day of exploration.
• Ideal for Limited Time Visitors: Maximizes sightseeing for those with just one day in Melbourne.

An In-Depth Look at the Great Ocean Road Private Tour

This private tour stands out by combining luxury and flexibility with the chance to visit Australia’s iconic coastline without the crowds or rigid schedules. It’s set up for travelers who want to see major sights but also have the ability to customize their day. With a 12-hour window, it’s a marathon journey—roughly 8-9 hours in the vehicle plus stops for sightseeing, walks, and meals—but it’s thoughtfully curated to pack as much as possible without rushing.

The Journey Begins: From Melbourne to the Coast

Starting early at 7:00 am, you’ll be picked up from outside the Eureka Tower, a central Melbourne landmark. The journey begins with a scenic drive along the main section of the Great Ocean Road, where you can relax and enjoy the changing vistas of rugged coastlines, cliffs, and ocean views. Your private guide (known for their knowledge and personable manner, according to reviews) will share stories and insights, making the drive both informative and engaging.

First Stops: Lorne, Teddy’s Lookout, and Bells Beach

The first stretch includes a visit to Lorne Beach, one of the region’s largest and most scenic coastal towns. Here, we loved the way our guide pointed out local highlights and allowed a few minutes to soak in the sea breeze. Next, Teddy’s Lookout offers a superb vantage point over Lorne and its surroundings—a perfect spot for photos or just to take in the breathtaking scenery.

A quick stop at Bells Beach, renowned globally as a surfing hotspot, provides an authentic Australian coastal experience. According to reviews, travelers enjoyed spotting surfers and appreciating the surf culture. Nearby, we visit Point Addis Marine National Park, where the rocky cliffs and marine environment add a different flavor to the landscape.

Wildlife and Nature Walks

A highlight for many is the chance to see koalas in the wild at Kennett River. The guide’s expertise shines here—knowing the best spots to spot these elusive creatures—though, as the review notes, wild koala sightings are rare, with only about 80,000 left in the wild. Still, the chance to see these iconic animals adds a special touch to the day.

For nature lovers, there’s an opportunity to walk a section of the Great Ocean Walk—a gentle 1-hour stroll through stunning coastal scenery. Weather conditions might influence this part, but it’s a worthwhile addition if you enjoy light hikes with spectacular views.

Iconic Landmarks: The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

No visit to the Great Ocean Road is complete without viewing the Twelve Apostles. The tour includes multiple stops—one at the Marine National Park for a panoramic view, and another at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility for refreshments and an excellent vantage point. As one review describes, the vantage point from the boardwalk offers “great views,” perfect for photographs and appreciating the scale of these natural formations.

Loch Ard Gorge, site of a famous shipwreck, is another must-see. The dramatic cliffs and history make it a compelling stop, with several short walks to vantage points that highlight the area’s beauty.

Afternoon Delights: Otway National Park and Cape Patton

After lunch in Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town, the tour continues through Otway National Park, where the scenery shifts to lush rainforest. Guests can choose between Melba Gully or Maits Rest, both offering immersive rainforest environments. According to reviews, the rainforest experience is “fabulous,” and the easy walks make it accessible even for those with limited mobility.

The Cape Patton Lookout provides a final stunning view along the coast—cliffs, ocean, and sky merging in a seamless display of nature’s artistry.

Wrapping Up: Return to Melbourne

The last part of the tour takes you back through the Port Campbell area, with a brief visit to Port Campbell township and some of the other rock formations in the Marine National Park. The tour concludes with options—some choose to explore Melbourne further at the Skydeck or relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens before heading back to their hotel.

You might also opt for a short city tour, including the City Circle Tram, or even catch an evening session at the Australian Open if scheduled during your visit.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour covers over 500 kilometers of scenic drive—a true marathon of sights, sounds, and landscapes. The vehicle’s comfort and private guide make this long day more enjoyable. The included hotel pickup and drop-off are especially valuable if you’re staying centrally in Melbourne, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis early in the morning.

The cost of $360.01 per person includes all park fees, bottled water, and taxes—adding clarity to the overall expense. While food is not included, the stop in Apollo Bay offers a chance to enjoy local cafes and fresh seafood, making the day not just sightseeing but also a culinary treat.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like James and Chloe. Their ability to “look after” guests and “adjust the schedule” ensures a smooth and personalized experience. Many travelers appreciated that the tour allows moving at their own speed and spending extra time at spots they found most appealing.

Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably, especially sturdy trainers or sneakers for walks.
• Be prepared for a long day of driving—bring snacks, camera, and patience.
• If prone to motion sickness, this tour might be less suitable due to the extensive driving.
• Communicate any specific interests in advance—like more time at certain spots or particular wildlife viewing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but crave a comprehensive, personalized experience of the Great Ocean Road, this tour is ideal. It suits those who value expert guidance, want the convenience of door-to-door service, and aren’t minding a full day on the road. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy light walks and scenic vistas will find this tour both enriching and relaxing.

FAQ

Is breakfast or lunch included?
Food and drinks are not included, but there will be a stop in Apollo Bay for lunch, giving you the chance to choose your own meal at local cafes.

How long is the driving time?
Expect approximately 8-9 hours of driving in total, covering over 500 km, with the rest spent exploring stops and walking.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private, so your guide can adjust the schedule or spend more time at spots that interest you most.

What should I wear?
Comfortable trainers or sneakers are recommended, and dress according to weather conditions as the tour operates rain or shine.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years, making it suitable for older children and teenagers who can handle a long day on the road.

Are park fees included?
Yes, all national park fees are included in the price.

What if I suffer from motion sickness?
Given the long hours on the road, this tour might not be ideal for those sensitive to motion sickness.

How do I get picked up?
You’ll be collected from outside Eureka Tower in Southbank or from your accommodation if booked in advance at selected hotels.

Final Thoughts

This private Great Ocean Road tour offers a perfect balance of stunning scenery, expert insight, and personalized flexibility. It’s especially well-suited for travelers eager to experience the highlights of Australia’s most famous coast in one day—without the crowds or rigid schedules. While it’s a full day, many reviewers agree that the quality of the experience and the comfort of the private vehicle make it worthwhile.

If you’re after authentic wildlife sightings, breathtaking coastal views, and the convenience of door-to-door service, this tour delivers. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to invest in a meaningful, well-organized, and memorable day exploring Victoria’s natural treasures.

In essence, this tour is about seeing Australia’s iconic coastline on your own terms, with knowledgeable guides ensuring your experience is both fun and informative.