Full day Shared Tour to Twelve Apostle (Melbourne Chinese Tour)

Planning a day trip from Melbourne that combines jaw-dropping scenery with a touch of local history? The Full Day Shared Tour to the Twelve Apostles, offered by Royal Discovery Holiday, might just be what you’re after. With an itinerary that hits some of the most iconic spots on Australia’s southeastern coast, this tour promises a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural stories—all at a reasonable price.

We like that it offers a rundown without feeling overly rushed, thanks to a full day of stops and explanations. The tour’s well-structured route ensures you get plenty of time at each site, especially at the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, which are the main draws. Another plus is the insightful guide, who adds context and stories to each location, enriching the experience.

However, one potential concern is the long travel time—about two hours each way—meaning you’ll spend a significant portion of your day in transit. Also, the mixed language group means explanations can be bilingual, which may affect the clarity for some travelers. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic views, are comfortable in group settings, and don’t mind a full, sometimes tiring, day.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery with iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
• Informative guide who shares historical and cultural insights along the route.
• Wildlife encounters including opportunities to see koalas and native birds.
• Value for money with a full-day experience at an accessible price point.
• Long travel hours mean a lot of time on the road, so suitable for those comfortable with long bus rides.
• Mixed-language tour, primarily Chinese with English audio, for a diverse group experience.

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This Melbourne-based day trip promises a comprehensive journey along the legendary Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most famous coastal drives. Though we haven’t personally been, detailed reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Two things stand out—the opportunity to marvel at the Twelve Apostles’ limestone stacks and to encounter Australia’s unique wildlife at the wildlife park and near Apollo Bay. These moments are what make the trip memorable. The guide’s explanations, often delivered in Chinese with English playback, help give context and deepen the appreciation for what you’re seeing.

A drawback to consider is that the bathroom stop early in the day has garnered some criticism for cleanliness, so packing some tissues or hand sanitizer might be wise. The tour covers a lot in one day, making it ideal for those eager to tick off multiple sights but less so for travelers seeking a leisurely, unhurried experience.

This tour fits best for first-time visitors to Melbourne eager for an all-in-one coastal adventure that mixes natural wonders with a bit of cultural storytelling.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Colac — The Gateway to the Coast

Starting from Melbourne early in the morning, the two-hour drive to Colac serves as a warm-up. It’s a quick rest stop at a service station for about 15 minutes, giving travelers a chance to stretch and use the facilities. Based on reviews, the stop is functional but not glamorous—one traveler noted the bathroom was in poor condition, so come prepared with your own supplies if hygiene is a concern.

Stop 2: The Twelve Apostles — Coastal Marvels

The highlight for most is the Twelve Apostles, a series of limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean. It’s about an hour’s drive from Colac, with roughly 50 minutes allocated at the site. Here, you’ll have ample time to take photos, absorb the vast views, and perhaps walk along the viewing platforms.

Travelers often comment on how impressive the formations are. One reviewer mentions, “Besides a gross bathroom stop, all was great,” highlighting the majesty of the sight despite some minor inconveniences. Visiting the Twelve Apostles is an experience that defies photography—standing before these towering stacks makes you appreciate nature’s sculpting power.

Stop 3: Loch Ard Gorge — Legends of the Sea

Next, about 30 minutes away, Loch Ard Gorge offers a different kind of awe. Named after a historic shipwreck, the gorge’s towering limestone cliffs and sheltered beach evoke tales of maritime adventure. Expect to see impressive rock formations and perhaps hear some stories from your guide about the wreck of the Loch Ard in 1878.

One traveler notes, “It’s a captivating natural wonder,” which captures the emotional pull of this site. The location is perfect for a quick walk and photo opportunities, and many appreciate the scenic beauty that seems to tell a story of resilience and tragedy.

Stop 4: Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park — Animal Encounters

Leaving Loch Ard Gorge, the tour makes a 1.5-hour stop at the wildlife park. Here, you can interact with native animals—think kangaroos, koalas, and birds—though the zoo admission and lunch are at your own expense. This stop provides a fun, hands-on experience that many find delightful, especially if traveling with family or animal lovers.

One review points out that the wildlife park is a good chance to connect with Australia’s fauna directly. However, some mention that the lunch options and zoo fees are additional costs, so plan accordingly.

Stop 5: Apollo Bay — Coastal Serenity and Wildlife Sightings

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Apollo Bay for about 10 minutes. The highlight here is the chance to spot wild koalas in their eucalyptus habitat. Keep your eyes peeled—these creatures are masters of blending into the trees.

A reviewer describes the visit as, “Time spent with my family in a relaxed and informative outing,” emphasizing the laid-back vibe of Apollo Bay. It’s a brief stop, but enough to soak in the coastal town’s charm and natural environment.

Stop 6: Apollo Bay — A Charming Coastal Town

Spending about 30 minutes in Apollo Bay, you’ll get a taste of local life with quaint cafes and shops along the main street. The beach scenery is stunning, and many enjoy strolling along the sands or just taking a breather before heading back.

Stop 7: Memorial Arch — Honoring the Builders

The journey concludes with a visit to the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch—a striking landmark commemorating the workers who built this legendary route. Just about 10 minutes here, but it offers a poignant reminder of the effort that went into connecting these distant coastlines.

Return to Melbourne

After a full day, the group boards the bus for the two-hour ride back to Melbourne, arriving around 7:30-8:00 pm. This long drive is a trade-off for the sights seen, but most reviews note that the guide’s commentary helps pass the time pleasantly.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The price of $63.83 per person reflects good value, especially considering the full day of sightseeing. Included are an air-conditioned bus and GST, making the logistics straightforward. The tour does not include lunch or zoo admission fees, so bringing snacks or planning to purchase lunch during the wildlife stop is advisable.

The group size, with a maximum of 50 travelers, helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere, though some reviews suggest the bilingual nature can lead to mixed clarity—explanations are primarily in Chinese, with English audio playback as a supplement.

Real Feedback from Travelers

The reviews reveal a balanced picture. Many praise the knowledgeable guide and the spectacular scenery. One reviewer cheered, “Time spent with my family in a relaxed and informative outing,” highlighting the enjoyable mix of travel and learning.

Not all experiences are perfect—some travelers found the bathroom stop less than ideal, and there are reports of confusion regarding language and guide communication. For instance, a traveler mentions, “We were told we would have an English guide and we got a Chinese guide who spoke no English,” though the provider emphasizes that explanations are mainly in Chinese with English audio.

In terms of value, most agree that the sights are worth the price, especially considering the convenience of a guided day trip. The long travel hours are noted, but the majority seem satisfied with the overall experience, citing the stunning views and interesting stories as highlights.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day Great Ocean Road tour strikes a good balance for travelers wanting to see the iconic coastline without the stress of self-driving or multiple bookings. It’s ideal for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction and for those comfortable with group travel and bilingual explanations. Wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy the stops at Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, and Apollo Bay.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or if you require clear English explanations and pristine bathroom facilities, this might not be your perfect choice. The long hours on the bus and the mixed-language approach require a degree of patience and flexibility.

Overall, for value-conscious travelers eager to tick off one of Australia’s most famous sights, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and informative experience—highlighting the natural beauty that makes the Great Ocean Road a must-see.

FAQ

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You can purchase food at the wildlife park or bring your own snacks.

Are the explanations in English?
The tour features explanations primarily in Chinese, with English audio playback available during stops.

How long is the bus ride each way?
About two hours each way, so be prepared for a significant amount of time on the bus.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic views.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, making it a relatively comfortable shared experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What’s the best time to book?
On average, most travelers book about 21 days in advance, indicating good planning is advisable.

Are there bathroom facilities during the stops?
Yes, but some reviews mention that facilities at Colac can be less than ideal. Carry tissues or sanitizer if needed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve short walks; check with the provider if you have specific mobility requirements.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, snacks, and some cash or cards for optional expenses like lunch or zoo entry.

This tour offers a solid way to experience the stunning scenery and wildlife of Australia’s coast, especially if you value guided insights and a structured itinerary. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy scenic drives, iconic sights, and a bit of storytelling—all at a fair price.