V.I.P 1 Day Great Ocean Road Tour
There’s nothing else like this in Australia. The Great Ocean Road is an extraordinary drive, winding its way past dozens of golden sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, rainforests, peaceful farmlands and, of course, the world famous 12 Apostles.
These huge limestone stacks, one of which collapsed dramatically into the ocean in 2005, were once part of the coastline. But the incessant pounding of the Southern Ocean over 10 to 20 million years gradually eroded this section of the coastline into caves, then arches, and finally these huge pillars up to 45 metres tall.
Our tour also includes the Shipwreck Coast, which is thought to have claimed around 700 ships in the 19th century, with a stop at Loch Ard Gorge (named after the most famous shipwreck in 1878).
- Memorial Arch: The Great Ocean Road was hewn out of the cliffs by returned World War One servicemen, and the Memorial Arch pays tribute to them. The road was completed in 1932, and this is the third Memorial Arch to be erected (bushfires destroyed the second arch in 1983).
- Rainforest Walk: The Otway Ranges reveal some of Australia’s finest rainforest scenery, with huge trees, shady fern groves and secluded waterfalls. This is an absolutely beautiful place to take a stroll after lunch.
- Loch Ard Gorge: The most famous shipwreck on the Shipwreck Coast, the Loch Ard went down in 1878, with only 2 of 54 people on board surviving. A young woman clinging to wreckage was washed into the narrow opening of the gorge, and spent a night in a cave with a cabin boy who was the only other survivor. The boy was climbed the cliffs and found help, and the gorge was later named after the ill-fated ship. Today you can walk the glorious beach, watching for blowholes in action.
- Gibson Steps: The gateway to the 12 Apostles. There’s a viewing area near the carpark, which is perfect for those with limited mobility, or you can head down 86 steps that were carved into the cliff face by local resident Hugh Gibson. On the beach, you’ll find yourself dwarfed by 70 metre high cliffs, with two of the 12 Apostles giving you a taste of what’s to come.
- 12 Apostles: Is this a wonder of the modern world? The 12 Apostles are certainly one of nature’s most spectacular creations, and were millions of years in the making. Marvel at them from the boardwalk, listening to the pounding surf and watching the play of sunlight on the water.
- All park entrance fees
- Lunch
- WIFI on board
- Bottled Water
- Luxury vehicle service
- Friendly and informative tour guide
A Helicopter flight – Take a 15 min helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles! ($145)
* Options must be pre-booked
- Appropriate clothing for all weather conditions
- Snacks & Water bottle
- Bathers for swimming (time permitting)
Our tour departs between 7.15 am – 7.30 am from Melbourne and returns approximately 8.30pm
- During peak times Parks Victoria may close Gibsons Beach from time to time due to due safety concerns posed by excessive crowds
DEPARTS ONLY ON REQUEST