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12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour

12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour

$2,490
$2,790 $2,490
per person
Sale Call to book

The fastest way to get to the 12 Apostles from Melbourne. Fly by helicopter and arrive in just 70 minutes. Book Australia's most spectacular helicopter ride over the Great Ocean Road.

Your 5 - 7 hour Experience includes:

🚁 1 hour 10 min Private Flight (each way)

📸 Amazing Aerial Views of the 12 Apostles

🥾 2 hours to explore 12 Apostles on foot

🍇 Lunch Stopover at Local Winery (optional)

🐧 Phillip Island Penguin Parade Drop-Off (optional)

👫 We fly groups of 2 to 30 People

📍 Flights depart Essendon Airport (20 mins from CBD)

🥇 Melbourne's #1 Rated Helicopter Company

The only way get from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles and back in less than a day, is by helicopter.

Fly from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles in just 1 hour and 10 minutes by helicopter, compared to 4.5 hours when travelling by road. Perfect for travellers visiting Melbourne for just a few days, our 12 Apostles helicopter tours allow you to explore the Great Ocean Road and magnificent rock stacks of the 12 Apostles in just a few hours from Melbourne by helicopter.

Our private flights guarantee window seats with panoramic views of the entire shipwreck coast. Enjoy a scenic flight over the 12 Apostles and iconic landmarks including Loch Ard Gorge, the Sentinel, the Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto and Bay of Islands dotted along the southern ocean.

Your aircraft will then make a private landing at the 12 Apostles Helipad for you to stretch your legs and spend time on the ground to witness, first-hand, these magnificent rock formations, formed over millions of years. Depending on the weather and your level of fitness, you can choose to spend your 2 hour stopover with either:

  • A short walk (7 minutes) from 12 Apostles Helicopters to the spectacular Castle Rock lookout for some of the best views of the beaches and coastline in Victoria and the Great Ocean Road.
  • A long walk (35 minutes) down the Gibson Steps (89 steps in each direction!) to access the beach where you can witness the beauty of the 12 Apostles up close as they rise from the sea. 

📸 Itinerary

Itinerary #1: Fly direct from Melbourne to 12 Apostles (5 hour experience)

Our 12 Apostles tours depart daily from Melbourne offering direct flights and a 5 hour experience including:

  • 09:00 - Depart Essendon Airport on your 12 Apostles helicopter ride flying past Melbourne CBD en-route to the Great Ocean Road and Port Campbell National Park.
  • 10:15 - Enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, the Arch and London Bridge before turning around to enjoy the same route in the other direction.
  • 10:30 - Land at the 12 Apostles Helipad and spend up to 2 hours viewing the 12 Apostles on the ground. Take a short walk to the lookouts or a long walk down the Gibson Steps to see the 12 Apostles at sea level.
  • 12:30 - Depart 12 Apostles.
  • 13:45 - Arrive back to Essendon Airport.

Itinerary #2: Fly from Melbourne to 12 Apostles with a Winery Stopover (7 hour experience)

We highly recommend pairing your flight with a stopover at one of the award-winning wineries on the Great Ocean Road with our 7 hour experience. We'll arrange a private landing and lunch reservation at Mount Duneed Estate, Jack Rabbit Restaurant or Terindah Estate so you can enjoy a wine tasting and three course lunch on your return flight to Melbourne:

  • 09:00 - Depart on your 12 Apostles tour from Melbourne.
  • 10:15 - Enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles including Loch Ard Gorge, the Arch and London Bridge
  • 10:30 - Land at 12 Apostles Helipad and spend up to 1 hour viewing the 12 Apostles on the ground.
  • 11:30 - Depart 12 Apostles Helicopters.
  • 12:30 - Private landing at a Great Ocean Road winery for lunch (meals and wine tasting charged separately).
  • 14:45 - Depart the winery on your scenic flight back to Melbourne.
  • 15:45 - Arrive back to Essendon Airport.

Itinerary #3: Fly from Melbourne to 12 Apostles and then arrive at Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade (7 hour experience)

Visit two of Australia's world heritage-listed landmarks in a single day by combining your 12 Apostles tour with a stopover at Phillip Island to discover the famous Penguin Parade with our 7 hour do-it-all experience.

We'll extend your flight to include a scenic flight and private landing at the Phillip Island Helipad just in time for the Penguin Parade - The largest little Penguin colony in the world making their daily dash home across the beach at sunset on Phillip Island. You can then choose to arrange an overnight stay in Phillip Island, or we can arrange a private chauffeur for a relaxing 1 hour and 30 minute drive back to Melbourne.

  • 13:00 - Depart on your 12 Apostles tour from Melbourne.
  • 14:15 - Enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles.
  • 14:30 - Land at the 12 Apostles Helipad and spend up to 1 hour viewing the 12 Apostles on the ground.
  • 15:30 - Depart 12 Apostles.
  • 17:00 - Land at the Phillip Island Helipad.
  • 17:15 - Ground transport to Penguin Parade (booked and charged separately).
  • 18:00 - Witness the famous Penguin Parade at sunset (booked and charged separately).
  • 20:00 - Limousine transfer back to Melbourne (booked and charged separately).

✅ What's included

Inclusions: 12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour from Melbourne

  • A spectacular 1 hour 10 minute helicopter ride from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles.
  • A private helicopter reserved exclusively for you (your flight will not be shared).
  • A private landing and stopover directly at 12 Apostles helicopters.
  • Amazing photo opportunities during your 12 Apostles scenic flight and on the ground.
  • A courteous and experienced pilot who loves making people smile
  • A winery stopover on your return from 12 Apostles to Melbourne (optional)
  • A Phillip Island stopover on your return from 12 Apostles to witness the Penguin Parade (optional)

🏷️ Pricing Information

How much does a 12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour cost?

12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour Fly Direct to 12 Apostles
(per person)
 Add Winery Stopover (excl. Meals & Drinks)
(per person)
 Add Phillip Island Drop-Off
(per person)
2 People
$2,490
$2,490
$2,790
$2,790
$3,390
$3,390
3 People
$1,890
$1,890
$2,040
$2,040
$2,490
$2,490
4 People
$1,690
$1,690
$1,890
$1,890
$2,190
$2,190
5 People
$1,490
$1,490
$1,690
$1,690
$1,990
$1,990
6 - 10 People (Two Helicopters)
$1,490
$1,490
$1,690
$1,690
$1,990
$1,990

🎟️ Important Booking Information

Where are you located?

Your flight will depart from Essendon Airport which is 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD by car. Your departure point will either be Hangar 7 Wirraway Rd, Essendon Fields or the Essendon Passenger Terminal depending on your flight. Please refer to your booking confirmation email for your departure location. Both locations have off-street parking available.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 10 minutes before your booking begins for a relaxed experience.

Can bad weather prevent us from flying?

Yes, adverse weather conditions such as low cloud, fog, heavy rain or high winds may require your flight to be delayed or rescheduled. If this is the case, your pilot will contact you at least 2 hours prior to your booking time to reschedule your flight. If your flight cannot go ahead due to bad weather and you wish to cancel, we'll provide a full refund minus any credit card processing fees we've paid on your behalf.

Google says there's will be bad weather on the day. Should I reschedule?

There's no need to contact us to reschedule based on a weather forecast as they're often inaccurate! We use live weather data on the day of your flight to determine if flights can be conducted safely.

Why do I need to provide my weight?

We use this to calculate the weight and balance of the helicopter prior to flight. If you have any guests weighing over 130kg (300lb) or a group of 2 or 3 guests weigh more than 240kg (530lb) combined, please contact us prior to booking.

What is the minimum age requirement for children?

Children aged 2 years or older can occupy their own seat. Our pilots will give them special attention to ensure they have an amazing time. All children will have their own window seat and pay the same seat price (we don't offer discounts for children as we make sure they have even more fun than the adults 😁)

Can I use my camera or phone during flight?

Yes, we encourage you to take as many photos and videos on the ground, and in the air, as possible.

What should I wear?

Please bring a pair of sunglasses and you're welcome to wear clothing appropriate to the weather. We do recommend a wind-breaker jacket on cooler or windy days to keep your warm.

Can I bring any luggage?

Light handbags and small backpacks weighing less than 5kg can be carried. For any larger items please contact us prior to your flight.

Can I fly if I'm pregnant?

Yes, and we recommend flying prior to your third trimester.

Can I fly if I'm in a wheelchair?

Yes, our hangar is wheelchair-accessible and we warmly welcome passengers with special needs, as long as a carer accompanies them on their flight. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Do you provide a wheelchair for disabled passengers?

We partner with Fisher Lane Mobility (www.fisherlane.com.au) in Melbourne, which provides wheelchair rental as well as delivery and pickup services from our hangar. Wheelchairs can only be carried in larger aircraft suitable for 4 or more passengers as they include a cargo hold. We would be happy to arrange a suitable wheelchair for your planned date of travel.

☔ Bad Weather & Cancellation Policy

What happens if there's bad weather on the day of my flight?

  • We really want you to enjoy your experience, so we only fly when the weather allows a safe and comfortable flight. If there's bad weather (low cloud, heavy rain, high winds) on the day, we may need to delay or reschedule your flight. We’ll work with you to choose a new date, or allow you to reschedule at your convenience.
  • If your flight cannot go ahead due to bad weather or an operational issue and you wish to cancel, we'll provide a full refund minus any credit card processing fees we've paid on your behalf.

    Can I reschedule or cancel my booking if my plans change?

    • You can reschedule or cancel up to 72 hours before departure. If you choose to cancel, we'll provide you with a full refund minus a 10% cancellation fee. No cancellation fee will apply if you'd like us to hold your booking as credit to fly in the future.

    Are Buy Now, Book Later and Gift Vouchers refundable?

    • Buy Now, Book Later and Gift Voucher purchases are non-refundable, valid for 3 years, and can be used towards any flight across all our locations.
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    Why book with Rotor One?

    • ✅ Personal Concierge

      Our team are available day & night to answer questions and help you plan your flight.

    • ✅ You'll Fly For A Cause

      We donate 5% of proceeds from your flight to fly terminally ill children & their families.

    • ✅ Perfect Safety Record

      We fly over 1,000+ guests every year and are proud to say we've had zero incidents.

    • ✅ Booking Guarantee

      If we can't fly due to bad weather, we'll reschedule or give you a refund - no questions asked.

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    Customer Reviews

    Based on 31 reviews
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    Joanna McKay (Victoria, Australia)
    12 Apostles & Great Ocean Road Helicopter Tour with Rotor One

    On July 1/24, our family of 4 had the amazing experience of taking Rotor One's tour from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles, with a drop off at Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade. We all had a thoroughly enjoyable time during the roughly 3 hours we spent with Ed, our pilot. Ed is the epitome of professionalism - he made us feel safe, engaged in easy conversation including explaining all our myriad questions about helicoptering (? is that a word?), and overall elevated the entire experience. Note that the weather was dicey, this being the middle of winter - lots of cloud cover and overcast with the sun luckily burning through here and there.

    It was definitely an indulgence for us, but having traveled extensively around the world, and having had the pleasure of engaging with great tour guides everywhere, I have to say Ed and our time on this Rotor One tour certainly ranks up there. Highly recommend.

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    M.S. (Victoria, Australia)
    The best way to get a wonderful memory of 12 Apostles

    Rotor One is the best operator for this kind of experience. They are very professional, helpful and collaborative! The best choice absolutely!

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    Roberto Leon Martinez (Western Australia, Australia)
    12 Apostles Helicopter Ride from Melbourne

    Best helicopter ride ever. 12 apostles scenic view is just unreal. You get also 2 hours to walk on the beach. Pilot also great and friendly.

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    S
    Szabolcs Homola (Budapest, Hungary)
    An amazing experience by helicopter from Melbourne to 12 Apostles

    It was an amazing experience. I called Ed one day before the tour. He arranged an extra helicopter to us. We leaved our hotel at 9.00 am, landed at 11.00am at 12 Apostles, had an amazing run on the beach, landed at 13.40 at the winery and having a great lunch. Finaly we catch the 17.30 Sydney flight from Melbourne. Wow, that was a very special day!!! Especially thx to pilots who were not only highly skilled but was extraemely personable and accommodated. Thanks Ed again your service, I warmly recommend to everybody !!!😎🍷🚁

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    J
    J.J. (Queensland, Australia)
    12 Apostles by Helicopter

    Ed and the entire Rotor One team were so lovely and professional throughout the entire time.

    Expectations were definitely exceeded, my partner and I had an experience that we will cherish for a lifetime.

    Thanks Rotor One for providing both of us with some amazing memories.

    I highly recommend Rotor One to everyone out there. 👍

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    Rafael Pifaldini (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
    An amazing, fast and comfortable experience

    We had an amazing flight from Melbourne to 12 Apostles. Ed is a very competent and friendly pilot. We had a very safe flight. I think the best way to view the 12 apostles is from a helicopter. The tour is really worth it.

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    See More Helicopter Rides in Melbourne

    Rotor One - Melbourne Helicopter Rides 🚁

    We're proud to be Melbourne's #1 rated helicopter company with an exclusive selection of helicopter rides, wine tours and charter destinations in Melbourne.

    Experience Melbourne's iconic sights on a spectacular flight over Melbourne CBD, indulge in one of Yarra Valley's famed vineyards, or witness the breathtaking 12 Apostles from the sky.

    Mark your anniversary with our Couples Only Experience, or surprise your children with our Kid's Co-Pilot Experience — the best birthday gift they'll ever receive.

    We believe a helicopter ride is more than a flight — it's a breathtaking adventure that you'll remember for a lifetime.

    Have a question?

    Call us on (03) 7065 1888