If you’re planning a day trip from Melbourne to see the iconic Twelve Apostles, this shared tour offers a convenient way to tick off some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal sights. While it comes with a few caveats, many travelers find the experience offers a solid mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural storytelling.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour are the stunning views of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, as well as the opportunity to learn about the area’s history from a knowledgeable guide. However, a potential downside is the long day’s journey—11 to 12 hours in total—which might feel a bit tiring for some.
This tour suits travelers who value ease and want to see the highlights without worrying about logistics. It’s especially good if you’re comfortable with a bilingual group (English and Chinese) and are keen on guided explanations. If you’re seeking deep local insights and a relaxed pace, this could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are highlights, offering unforgettable scenery.
- Wildlife encounters at Apollo Bay give a chance to see koalas and native birds in their habitat.
- The guided commentary, primarily in Chinese with English audio, enriches understanding of the area’s cultural and historical context.
- The long duration means an early start and a late return, suitable for those prepared for a full day.
- Price point of around $64 per person makes this a budget-friendly option for experiencing the coast.
- Group size can be up to 50 travelers, which offers a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.
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Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
- From Melbourne to Colac
- The Twelve Apostles: Nature’s Masterpiece
- Loch Ard Gorge: Maritime Legend
- Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park: Wildlife Encounters and Lunch
- Apollo Bay: Coastal Charm and Koalas
- Memorial Arch: Celebrating the Coast’s History
- Return to Melbourne
- The Experience and Practicalities
- Transportation and Group Size
- Guided Commentary
- Value for Money
- Considerations and Drawbacks
- Authentic Traveler Insights
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Melbourne
- More Tours in Melbourne
- More Tour Reviews in Melbourne
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Melbourne we have recnetly reviewed
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
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From Melbourne to Colac
Your day begins early, with a roughly two-hour drive from Melbourne’s city center to Colac. This initial stop is mainly for a quick 15-minute bathroom break, giving everyone a chance to stretch. The drive itself offers a chance to settle in and get ready for the scenic journey ahead. Keep in mind that the vehicle is air-conditioned, providing some comfort during the long ride.
The Twelve Apostles: Nature’s Masterpiece
After the short stop, you’ll drive about an hour to reach the famous Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks are the star attraction, and they never fail to impress. The views are spectacular, and many choose to arrive early or late in the day to avoid the crowds.
The tour’s 50-minute stop allows visitors to get close to the formations, take photos, and appreciate their scale. According to one review, “besides a gross bathroom stop, all was great,” highlighting how the scenery often overshadows minor inconveniences. Expect plenty of opportunities for panoramic photos, and with some luck, a view of the cliffs against the setting sun.
Loch Ard Gorge: Maritime Legend
Next up is Loch Ard Gorge, a site named after a famous shipwreck. This natural wonder features towering limestone cliffs and a picture-perfect sheltered beach. The 30-minute stop is enough to wander along the scenic pathways, take photos, and get a sense of the dramatic history linked to this spot. One traveler called it “a captivating natural wonder,” emphasizing how the landscape’s grandeur leaves a lasting impression.
Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park: Wildlife Encounters and Lunch
Leaving Loch Ard Gorge, the tour pauses at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park for about 1.5 hours. Visitors can interact with Australian wildlife, such as kangaroos and koalas, or simply enjoy lunch at their own expense. This stop is a delightful break from the drive, offering a chance to connect with native animals in a relaxed setting.
While lunch isn’t included, many travelers find it convenient to bring snacks or buy something at the park. “You can interact with the animals and enjoy lunch (Zoo admission and lunch at your own expense),” notes the tour details.
Apollo Bay: Coastal Charm and Koalas
After lunch, it’s a short 10-minute drive to Apollo Bay, where you can stroll along the beach and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Then, the group heads into eucalyptus forests to look for wild koalas—a highlight for many wildlife enthusiasts.
Expect a 10-minute pause here, with the chance to spot these iconic creatures in their natural habitat. As one reviewer put it, “you have the opportunity to see wild koalas and birds, experiencing Australia’s unique wildlife.” It’s a memorable experience, especially for those interested in native fauna.
Memorial Arch: Celebrating the Coast’s History
The tour then visits the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway, a poignant tribute to the workers who built this spectacular road. The 10-minute stop offers a photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on the human effort behind the scenic route. The arch’s historical significance adds depth to the journey, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.
Return to Melbourne
Finally, the group begins the two-hour drive back to Melbourne, arriving around evening. The long day might seem tiring, but many travelers find it worthwhile for the incredible sights and stories gained along the way.
The Experience and Practicalities
Transportation and Group Size
The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial for comfort given the long hours. With a maximum of 50 travelers, it’s on the larger side, but not overwhelming. The atmosphere can vary from bustling to relaxed, depending on the group dynamic.
Guided Commentary
One of the tour’s strengths is the explanations provided by the guide. While the group is bilingual, the main language is Chinese, with English audio supplements. This setup allows Chinese-speaking travelers to feel at ease, but some reviews mention that the English explanations may be limited or played via audio.
For example, one traveler appreciated that the guide “explained in English whenever we stopped,” while others noted that the English component was primarily through audio playback. This reflects the tour’s design: mainly Chinese explanations with optional English audio.
Value for Money
At around $64 per person, including transport and GST, this tour is a budget-friendly way to see the highlights of the coast. The price covers transportation, entry to certain sites, and guided insight, but does not include meals or zoo admission fees.
Considerations and Drawbacks
While the scenery and wildlife are undeniably impressive, the length of the day can be a challenge. The early start (7:30 am) and the long return make it a full-day commitment. Plus, the bathroom stops have received mixed reviews—some say they are inefficient or unclean, so you might want to bring your own tissues or hand sanitizer.
Another thing to consider is the group size and language dynamic. If you’re expecting a guide who speaks fluent English, this may not be the best choice. However, if you’re comfortable with bilingual explanations and English audio, you’ll likely find the experience enriching.
Authentic Traveler Insights
Some reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the scenic beauty as the tour’s best features. One traveler said, “Time spent with my family in a relaxed and informative outing. The tour guide was very helpful,” which captures the overall positive sentiment about the guide’s attitude and the trip’s pace.
Conversely, a negative review pointed out logistical frustrations, such as a “disgusting bathroom stop,” or confusion about the language dynamic, with one stating, “We were told we would have an English guide and we got a Chinese guide who spoke no English,” though the company clarified that explanations are primarily in Chinese, with English audio.
Most travelers agree that the stunning views of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are well worth the long day, and many appreciate the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip with minimal planning on their part. It’s a good fit if you’re interested in natural scenery, wildlife, and cultural stories, and are comfortable with a group that might primarily speak Chinese, with English audio support.
If you’re short on time but want a reliable guided experience that hits the main highlights of the Great Ocean Road, this tour offers good value. Travelers who don’t mind long hours on the road and are okay with large groups will find this experience worthwhile.
However, if you prefer a more personalized, small-group experience or have specific dietary needs, you might want to consider other options. Also, those who are particular about bathroom facilities should prepare accordingly.
The Sum Up
This full-day tour to the Twelve Apostles and the Great Ocean Road provides a solid introduction to one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines. With the convenience of door-to-door transport, a knowledgeable guide (primarily in Chinese), and a well-planned itinerary, it offers good value for those eager to see the sights without fuss.
The stops at Loch Ard Gorge and Apollo Bay stand out as highlights, especially for wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts. The visit to the Memorial Arch adds a touch of history, enriching the scenic experience.
While the long day may challenge some, the stunning vistas and insightful commentary make it a reasonable choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, affordable introduction to this celebrated stretch of coast. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your patience along with your camera.
Full day Shared Tour to Twelve Apostle (Melbourne Chinese Tour)
“Overall, a great way to get to the 12 apostles and ocean road. My one complaint was that one Bathroom stop on the way there was disgusting. They st…”
FAQ
How long is the total tour?
The entire trip lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.
What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an early start.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park where you can buy lunch at your own expense.
Is this a bilingual tour?
Yes, the group is primarily Chinese-speaking, with explanations supplemented by English audio playback.
How many people participate in this tour?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, balancing social interaction with comfort.
What attractions are visited?
The tour covers Colac (for a bathroom stop), the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, Apollo Bay (for wildlife viewing), the Memorial Arch, and the return drive to Melbourne.
Is the guide knowledgeable?
Most reviews praise the guide’s explanations and the historical insights provided, especially regarding the scenic and cultural significance of each site.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, snacks, and perhaps a small bottle of water. Remember that bathroom facilities may vary in cleanliness.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
Would I recommend this tour?
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, well-organized way to see the iconic coastal sights and don’t mind a big group, this is a solid choice. For more personalized experiences, consider smaller or private tours.
In the end, this tour offers a scenic, informative, and economical way to experience the breathtaking views and wildlife of the Great Ocean Road. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see the highlights with minimal hassle and who are comfortable with a bilingual group and a long day on the road.
