This 14-hour day tour leaves central Melbourne with hotel pickup between 7 and 8 am and returns at about 8:30 to 9:30 pm. The route follows the coast road through the Torquay area, stops at the Great Ocean Road memorial archway, then Kennett River for koalas, Apollo Bay for lunch at your own cost and a rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park. It then reaches the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge before the long drive back via Colac. Entry to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge and national park fees are included, along with coffee or tea, an English-speaking guide, narration in other languages through an app and Wi-Fi on board. The group is capped at 24 travellers. The booking page shows 4.9 out of 5 from 7,091 reviews.
Who it suits
It is the easy answer for visitors without a car or those who do not want to drive 275 km each way on winding roads. The pace is brisk, since 12 or so stops are packed into a long day, so you will see the highlights rather than linger. Some reviewers describe the group as closer to a full minibus than a small group, so expect a lively atmosphere rather than a private tour.
What is included and not
Entry and national park fees are covered, and so are coffee and tea. Lunch and dinner are at your own expense, and gratuities are not included. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund. Wear layers, because the coast can be windy and cool even in late spring, and bring a light rain jacket for the rainforest.
How to choose
This tour runs the route in coastal order, which gives you the koalas and rainforest first and the Apostles later in the day, closer to the evening light. If you prefer to reach the Apostles before the crowds, compare it with the reverse itinerary tour, which heads straight for the Apostles first. If you want more time on the coast, consider staying overnight in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell and exploring on your own.
What to expect
The experience
A guided minibus day tour from Melbourne with hotel pickup, about a dozen stops and a lunch break in Apollo Bay at your own cost.
Best time
Book ahead for weekends and holiday periods, and pick a day with a good weather forecast.
How long
About 14 hours door to door, leaving at around 7 am and returning in the evening.
Tips
Bring layers, a rain jacket, spending money for lunch and dinner, and snacks for the long drive.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors without a car who want the classic Great Ocean Road highlights in a single day.
- Families
- Suitable for children who can handle a long day on a minibus, and discounted child fares are offered.
- Couples
- A relaxed way to see the highlights without driving, but consider an overnight stay for more time.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a night in Melbourne before and a rest day after.
- Time needed
- A full day of about 14 hours.
Good questions
How long is the tour?+
About 14 hours, with hotel pickup between 7 and 8 am and a return at roughly 8:30 to 9:30 pm.
Which places does it visit?+
Stops include the Torquay area, the memorial archway, Kennett River, Apollo Bay, a rainforest walk, the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge.
What is included?+
Entry to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, national park fees, coffee or tea, a guide and Wi-Fi on board. Lunch, dinner and tips are extra.
How big is the group?+
The maximum is 24 travellers. Some reviewers describe it as a full minibus rather than a small group.
Can I cancel?+
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
