Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour (1 hour Flight)

If you’re dreaming of seeing one of Australia’s most iconic coastal sights from a perspective few get to enjoy, the Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour offers a spectacular way to do so. This is no ordinary sightseeing trip; it’s a first-class experience combining the thrill of a private helicopter flight with ample time to explore the breathtaking scenery on the ground. While it’s a significant investment—roughly $1,076—it promises a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime view of the Great Ocean Road and its famous formations.

What we particularly love about this tour are two things: first, the private helicopter ensures an intimate, noise-cancelled, window-seat experience that immerses you in the scenery without the chatter of a large group. Second, the two-hour ground time at the 12 Apostles and nearby spots is a real treat, giving you the chance to walk down the Gibson Steps or enjoy the viewing platforms at your own pace. However, a key consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some travelers, especially since meals and drinks are extra if you opt for the winery or penguin add-ons. This tour is best suited for those who value comfort, exclusivity, and the chance to combine aerial views with ground exploration.

Key Points

• Private helicopter guarantees a personalized experience with guaranteed window seats and excellent views.
• Two hours on the ground offers plenty of time for photos, walks, and close-up views.
• Optional winery lunch and wine tasting or Penguin Parade add unique local experiences.
• The tour’s cost reflects its premium quality and exclusivity.
• Weather dependency means cancellations are possible, but refunds or rescheduling are offered.
• It’s ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, memorable day of sightseeing with a focus on natural beauty.

What to Expect from This Unique Tour

This VIP helicopter experience from Melbourne is designed to give you an aerial perspective of the spectacular coastline along the Great Ocean Road, combined with enough time on land to appreciate the scenery up close. It’s a carefully curated package that balances luxury, adventure, and authentic sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at the Rotor One Hangar in Essendon Fields, where you’ll meet your pilot and get ready for your private helicopter flight. From there, the journey takes you over the city and out towards the coast, with the first major highlight being your flight along the Great Ocean Road—a scenic route famous for its rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and distinctive rock formations.

The flight itself lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne, providing ample time to soak in the rugged beauty. Many reviews mention how smooth and professional the pilots are, with comments like, “Grey and Rubin were excellent guides and pilots. It was a very smooth ride and the views were amazing.” The noise-cancelling Bose headsets ensure you can hear your pilot clearly and enjoy the commentary without distraction.

Key Stops and Landmarks

The main event is the landing at the 12 Apostles helipad, where you’ll spend up to two hours exploring the site. This is your chance to walk down the Gibson Steps—a secret, less crowded path that takes you down to sea level and offers a close-up view of these iconic limestone stacks. Many travelers say this walk is the highlight, with one reviewer noting, “Seeing the Twelve Apostles from the air was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Nearby, there are several other notable spots you might visit during your ground time:

• Loch Ard Gorge: Known for its dramatic cliffs and shipwreck history.
• The Bakers Oven: A stunning coastal point along the 12 Apostles.
• London Bridge: Famous for its collapse and the daring rescue of stranded travelers.
• The Grotto: A fascinating geological sinkhole.
• Bay of Martyrs: Often praised as one of the most beautiful spots along the coast.
• Peterborough: A scenic collection of rock stacks and small beaches with clifftop walks.

Optional Add-Ons

You can enhance your experience with two popular options:

• Winery Tour: Make a private landing at a local winery for a gourmet lunch and wine tasting (meals and drinks charged separately). Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, and one traveler appreciated how the pilot Harry fixed an issue with the lunch plans promptly.
• Penguin Parade at Phillip Island: For an entirely different experience, be dropped off for the famous penguin parade, including a scenic flight over Phillip Island and guided ranger tour, with return transfers.

The Experience on the Ground: Why It Matters

While the aerial views are undoubtedly breathtaking, the ground experience really adds depth. Walking down the Gibson Steps or exploring the viewing platforms allows you to see the formations from different angles and get closer to nature. Many travelers mention that this time is well-utilized, providing a relaxed pace to appreciate the scenery, unlike rushed group tours.

The Value of the Tour

Given the price of $1,076, this experience is clearly positioned as a premium offering. The private helicopter is a significant part of that—guaranteeing exclusivity, comfort, and outstanding views. Reviews note how knowledgeable guides and pilots enhance the trip, making it more than just a scenic flight but an educational and engaging journey.

Of course, meals, drinks, and optional tours are extra, which can add to the overall cost. Still, when you consider the luxury of a private helicopter, the time spent on the ground, and the chance to see multiple iconic sites, many travelers find it offers excellent value for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

The tour lasts about 5 hours in total, with 2 hours of flight time and up to 2 hours on the ground at the 12 Apostles. The flight is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions aren’t suitable—though refunds or rescheduling are generally offered.

The meeting point is at Hangar 7 at Essendon Fields, close to public transportation, which makes it accessible for most travelers. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, adding to the relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who appreciate comfort and exclusivity. If you’re dreaming of seeing the Twelve Apostles from above and walking close to these formations, it’s a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for special occasions, such as anniversaries or milestone birthdays, given the luxury feeling.

People who value knowledgeable guides and want to combine aerial and ground perspectives will find this tour particularly satisfying. Plus, those interested in local wines or the Penguin Parade can tailor the experience with optional add-ons, making it versatile.

However, it’s less ideal for budget travelers or those who prefer longer, more comprehensive ground tours without the added cost of helicopter rides. As it’s priced as a premium experience, it’s best for those seeking a memorable, high-quality adventure.

For travelers who want the best possible view of the Twelve Apostles and the Great Ocean Road, this VIP helicopter tour delivers. The combination of a private flight, ample ground time, and optional local experiences makes it a unique way to explore one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines. The praise for knowledgeable pilots and the beautiful scenery shared by past travelers highlights its value.

If you’re after a luxurious, memorable day with personalized attention and breathtaking vistas, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially ideal for those celebrating something special or wanting to indulge in a one-of-a-kind adventure. Just be prepared for the investment, and keep an eye on the weather forecast for the best chance at clear, sunny skies.

This tour isn’t just about the sights—it’s about creating an experience you’ll carry with you long after the helicopter has landed. Whether it’s the thrill of flight, the wonder of the coastline, or the option to indulge in local wine or penguins, it offers plenty of reasons to consider splurging on a remarkable day.

How long is the helicopter flight from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles?
The flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the stunning views along the Great Ocean Road.

What is included in this tour?
You’ll enjoy a private helicopter reserved exclusively for your group, guaranteed window seats, time for photos in front of your helicopter, and up to 2 hours on the ground at the 12 Apostles with options to walk down the Gibson Steps or visit viewing platforms.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks during the optional winery visit are charged separately. The tour focuses on the helicopter experience and ground exploration.

Can I combine this tour with other activities?
Yes, you can opt for a private winery lunch or visit Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade as additional experiences.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, provided they meet weight restrictions (287 lbs per person) and are comfortable with flying. It’s ideal for those seeking a luxurious, memorable adventure.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Rotor One Hangar at Essendon Fields and ends back at the same location.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations. The tour operator will reschedule or refund in such cases.

Whether you’re after a luxury escape, a scenic adventure, or a special treat, this Melbourne to 12 Apostles VIP Helicopter Tour offers a fantastic way to see one of Australia’s most famed landscapes from a truly unique vantage point.