Review: 12 Apostles Helicopter Tour on the Great Ocean Road!
When you think of the Great Ocean Road, the 12 Apostles instantly come to mind. But while most people admire them from the lookout platforms, there’s another way to see them that takes the experience to a whole new level, with the 12 Apostles Helicopter tours.
For first-time visitors, the decision can feel tricky. Helicopter flights aren’t cheap, and you might wonder if the short ride is really worth the cost compared to the free viewpoints. What will you actually see from the air? How long does the flight last? And is it really as spectacular as people claim?
I decided to take the plunge and book a 12 Apostles helicopter tour, and I can honestly say it was one of the highlights of my entire journey. In this review, I’ll share exactly what to expect on the tour, including the cost, and my honest opinion on whether it’s worth adding to your Great Ocean Road itinerary.
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My Review: 12 Apostles Helicopter Tours on the Great Ocean Road?
Hands down, Yes, the 12 Apostles Helicopter Flights are worth doing to see a different prospective of the Great Ocean Road, and I’m so glad to have had the opportunity. Despite the cloudy sky and dull weather we experienced, I still enjoyed the tour (as long as you get a window seat), and it was still a fantastic way to explore this Limestone coastline.
Taking a helicopter flight over the 12 Apostles is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Great Ocean Road. Flight times generally range from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
- Shorter trips giving you an aerial view of the famous Apostles themselves,
- while longer flights allow you to take in the full stretch of coastline, shipwreck sites, and dramatic limestone cliffs.
The main attraction, a 40-kilometre section of rugged beauty, can easily be covered in a quick 15-minute flight, making it accessible even if you’re short on time or budget.
A good tip to keep in mind: helicopters have two sides, so not every passenger will get the same view at the same time. However, the pilots are experienced at giving both sides of the aircraft a fair chance to take in the highlights, and it’s worth remembering when snapping photos.
Our 12 Apostle Helicopter Flight?
On our visit, we chose the 30-minute flight, which traced the coast from Princetown to the Bay of Islands and back. This gave us the perfect balance of value and scenery, covering not only the Apostles but also hidden coves, isolated beaches, and sea stacks that are much harder to appreciate from the ground.
➡ Check prices for Port Campbell Accommodation HERE with Booking.com
I should note that my own flight wasn’t blessed with the best weather. A storm rolled in quickly, which delayed our take-off by about an hour. By the time we flew, the skies were dark and moody, and while this gave a dramatic atmosphere, it meant my photos turned out a little dull.
On a clear day, however, the blues of the Southern Ocean and the golden tones of the limestone really pop, so if you can, aim for good weather to make the most of the experience.
How much does it cost?
The Price for a 12 Apostle Helicopter Tour from Princetown to the Bay of Islands is $295 AUD per person for 25 Minutes Flight Time.
However, extras cost are involved for longer flights with the Cape Otway Lighthouse at $795 for 1 Hour and getting your flight filmed and digitally load onto a USB. On the other hand, can be Cheaper at $195AUD per person to get to London Bridge and back.
Over the years, I’ve found the cost of a helicopter flights can be determined by the number of passengers, time in the air, and your location. I’ve had 10 minutes flights cost $70, but other areas for 20 minutes were $300.
So, this Great Ocean Road Helicopter Flight was not unreasonable in comparison.
Bookings are probably preferred, particularly if you’re limited in time. However, if you have some flexibility, you could always wait for a few days before to see if the weather will be good and then book.
Keep in mind the Victorian coastline constantly changes in weather conditions. So, whenever you do book, I would allow some leeway time in case something is holding the flight back.
Best time to fly?
This is not an exact science, but after more than 10 Helicopter flights around the world, I think choosing a flight time somewhere between 10 am and 2 pm is generally a good range.
This is due to the sun directly above you and not reflecting on the windows of the helicopter (much better for photo’s).
However, this depends on the conditions, time of year, and which way you’ll be facing. Know that this coastline is in line from east to west, so both sunrise and sunset will affect your viewing.
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Where’s the best seat?
I’m pretty picky regarding my helicopter flights, especially being a photographer.
When you have a 5-seater Helicopter ( 4 seats and the pilot), someone is stuck in the middle at the back, and you spend your entire time leaning over others for photos.
Not only that, but I find the view restricting and less enjoyable. Unfortunately, my 12 Apostles Helicopter Tour was a five-seater cabin, which meant the middle back seat had to reach over others to see.
I find middle seats lacking, definitely NOT worth the cost, and I think it’s very wrong for companies to charge the same as window seats. Therefore, try to get a guaranteed window seat.
I tend not to fly in a helicopter these days without a guaranteed window seat. So, I really like it when they only have a 4-seater helicopter ( 3 seats and the pilot).
FAQ’s – Common Questions?
What should you wear ?
What you wear on a helicopter flight will ultimately depend on if the doors are on or off. But generally, you’ll want to wear dark clothing (no White), that doesn’t reflect off the windows in your photo’s.
If the Helicopter doors are removed, then you’ll probably need a light-layer jacket to keep you warm (even in summer weather). And since it gets really windy, I recommend that close-fitting clothes be better than dresses or skirts!
Apart from that, anything comfortable is fine, but some companies will request closed-in shoes. Some have restrictions on gear you bring with you, which includes nothing in your pockets. This ensures nothing can drop or fall off you while in flight and means cameras will generally need to be strapped to you with a wristband or something similar.
The Checking in process?
When you’re ready to fly, you will check in and be weighed, so the pilot can evenly distribute everyone throughout the cabin. This includes any items you’re carrying on board, shoes, camera’s, handbags etc
You’re given a safety briefing and a life jacket, which is mandatory when flying over water. Apart from that, the staff were very friendly and helpful, and they spent time flying over both sides of the helicopter.
How many Apostles are left?
They are known as the 12 Apostles, but currently, there are only eight Apostles still standing. As the rough weather along this coastline continues, so will the erosion, and eventually, more will succumb to the pressure and fall over.
Therefore, If you happen to be around the area, come and see them before they are gone.
About the Great Ocean Road?
As a whole, the Great Ocean Road is worth seeing, stretching for 244 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford. This showcases some of Victoria’s most stunning coastal scenery, where erosion has shaped the landscape over millions of years.
The relentless crashing waves, strong winds, and heavy rains have carved out dramatic limestone stacks, arches, caves, and secluded beaches.
What remains today are some of the most photogenic coastal features in Australia, each telling a story of nature’s raw power and the coastline’s ever-changing beauty.
From Princetown, highlights on the Great Ocean Road include the world-famous 12 Apostles, the dramatic Loch Ard Gorge, the natural rock formation of The Arch, and the striking Bay of Islands.
You’ll also spot a couple of blowholes from above, though I found these were a little more impressive when viewed from the ground, where you can hear and feel the force of the water.
More Attractions:
While the 12 Apostles may be the star attraction, the Great Ocean Road is filled with countless other experiences that make the journey just as memorable. Here are some other highlights worth adding to your itinerary:
- The Grotto – A natural sinkhole and rock arch that frames the ocean beautifully at low tide.
- London Bridge (London Arch) – Once connected to the mainland, this striking rock formation now stands alone after part of it collapsed in 1990.
- Great Otway National Park – Lush rainforest walks, waterfalls like Hopetoun Falls, and the Otway Fly Treetop Walk.
- Lorne – A popular seaside town for swimming, dining, and relaxing on the beach.
- Apollo Bay – A laid-back stopover with fresh seafood, local cafes, and beachside charm.
- Kennett River – One of the best spots to see wild koalas in the eucalyptus trees.
- Surfing at Bells Beach – World-famous surf break and home to the annual Rip Curl Pro competition and used for filming of the movie “Point Break”.
Wrap up & Read More!
I think experiencing the 12 Apostles Marine National Park and Port Campbell National Park from above is unforgettable. This stretch of the Great Ocean Road, between Torquay and Allansford, is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives, and seeing it by helicopter takes the adventure to another level.
If you’re planning a trip along the Great Ocean Road, the 12 Apostles helicopter tours are more than just a side activity, it’s an absolute “must-do” experience in Australia.
Thanks for reading today’s post and finding out My Review on the Great Ocean Road Helicopter Flights. I hope you found what you were looking for, but if you’re still researching, please check out my Other Victoria Blogs for inspiration.
