This 12-hour day tour runs the Great Ocean Road in reverse, heading straight to the Twelve Apostles first and working back along the coast. Stops include Winchelsea, the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, the Razorback, Loch Ard Gorge, Maits Rest in Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay for lunch at your own cost, the Kennett River nature walk and Teddys Lookout. The tour uses minibuses of 12 seats and carries a maximum of 11 travellers, with a professional guide and live commentary. Pickup is from one of three points in the Melbourne CBD, at 6:30, 6:40 or 6:50 am, and drop-off is along Flinders Street. National park fees, skip-the-line entry and bottled water are included. The booking page shows 4.9 out of 5 from about 4,900 reviews.
Why go in reverse
The idea is that you reach the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge before the main flow of buses and visit the coast stops later. That can mean calmer lookouts at the busiest sights, though the long first drive means you cover the most distance before your first big stop. With the Apostles precinct now using timed arrivals, tours use guaranteed bus bays, and a good operator handles the booking for you.
Practical details
The minibus cannot wait for latecomers, so arrive at least five minutes before your pickup time. Lunch is not included, and the Apollo Bay stop gives you 45 minutes to eat. The Maits Rest walk and the Kennett River nature walk are short, and the stop at Teddys Lookout is brief. Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start. Bring a jacket, comfortable shoes and cash or a card for lunch.
Choosing between tours
This one suits travellers who want a smaller vehicle and an early Apostles visit, and who are happy to leave Melbourne early. If you prefer hotel pickup and a longer day with more time at the start of the coast, the small-group eco tour may suit you better. If you can stay a night near Port Campbell, you can see more at your own pace.
What to expect
The experience
A guided minibus day tour from the Melbourne CBD that reaches the Twelve Apostles first and returns along the coast.
Best time
Book early for weekends and holidays, and pick a day with a clear forecast.
How long
About 12 hours, with a 6:30 to 6:50 am pickup and an afternoon return along Flinders Street.
Tips
Arrive at your pickup point at least five minutes early, bring layers and pay for lunch in Apollo Bay yourself.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a small vehicle, an early Apostles visit and a shorter day than the 14-hour tours.
- Families
- Suits older children who can manage an early start and a long day on a minibus.
- Couples
- A good way to see the coast without driving, with fewer people than a coach.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a night in Melbourne before and a quiet morning after.
- Time needed
- A full day of about 12 hours.
Good questions
What does reverse itinerary mean?+
The tour goes straight to the Twelve Apostles first and works back along the coast, rather than following the road from Torquay westward.
How big is the group?+
The maximum is 11 travellers in 12-seat minibuses.
Where does it pick up?+
At one of three Melbourne CBD points chosen at booking, at 6:30, 6:40 or 6:50 am. Arrive at least five minutes early.
What is included?+
National park fees, skip-the-line entry, a guide with live commentary and bottled water. Lunch is at your own expense.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
