Phillip Island Wildlife Discovery and Penguins Tour from Melbourne
Duration:
Operated By:
Depart Melbourne for a full-day adventure on Phillip Island. Discover the island’s villages, beaches, and attractions at your own pace. Later, join your guide for a breathtaking Golden Hour walk at The Nobbies, then witness the world-famous Penguin Parade as hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore. This small-group experience combines freedom, comfort, and nature’s most unforgettable spectacle.
Inclusions on the Day
- General Admission to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade – Witness the world-famous Little Penguins returning to shore from the main viewing platforms. 🐧
- San Remo Bridge Views & Free Time for Lunch – Enjoy spectacular views of the Phillip Island bridge and unwind in the charming fishing village of San Remo.
- The Nobbies Boardwalk at Golden Hour – Stroll along this scenic boardwalk with panoramic views, rugged coastlines, and the chance to spot native wildlife.
- Explore Cowes Coastal Village – Discover boutique shops, seaside charm, and relaxed beachside vibes in Phillip Island’s main township.
- Optional Visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve – Get up close to Australia’s cuddliest locals in their natural gumtree habitat (extra fee applies).
- Premium Travel Comfort Guarantee – Reserved window seat, onboard Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports for every guest. 🚌
- Authentic Small Group Travel – Enjoy a more personal experience with a knowledgeable and friendly local guide.
- Complimentary Barista-Made Coffee – Start your day right with a quality coffee at our central Melbourne departure point. ☕
Upgraded Extras
- Penguin Plus Upgrade – Upgrade to an exclusive, less crowded viewing platform with a closer vantage point of the penguins as they waddle ashore. + $55pp
- Cruise Ticket – You will be able to purchase your own Seal Cruise Ticket at the Ticket Booth
Not Included
- Entries into attractions other than what is stated
- Food and drink other than what is stated
Highlights of Your Journey
- Native Wildlife Encounters: Witness hundreds of Little Penguins at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, as well as wallabies and other native Australian animals in their natural habitat.
- Your Own Time on the Island: Choose your own adventure—visit the Wildlife Park, board the 2-hour Seal Cruise, or relax in Cowes with its many bars, shops, cafes, and beaches (own expense).
- Nobbies Golden Hour Experience: Experience the Nobbies area like never before, with a visit to secluded beaches, time to wander the boardwalk, and a glass of sparkling wine. 🥂
- Relax in Coastal Townships: Take some time to unwind and relax in some of Australia’s most idyllic coastal townships, including Cowes and San Remo.
Departure Details
Our tours depart from the Melbourne Arts Centre (100R St Kilda Road, Melbourne). This Melbourne landmark is centrally located, easy to access, and provides plenty of entertainment and amenities for your convenience prior to our tour. At tour’s end, we drop back at the same location, with optional City and Southbank hotel returns.
Departure Times: Apr-Sep: 10:00am | Oct-Mar: 11:00am
Tour Duration: 11-13 Hours
Group Size: Maximum of 15 guests per tour
Fitness Level: Minimum – be able to walk 100m and climb a flight of stairs.
Important Information for Your Tour
Departure Details
Primary Departure Location: Melbourne Arts Centre, 100R St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
Arrival: Please arrive at least 10 minutes before departure time. Punctuality is crucial, as the tour departs on schedule and we will not be able to wait for you if you are late. Click Here for further Departure Information.
Secondary Departure: South Wharf OR Crown Hotels (this departure is only available if you have booked with us directly or through your hotel)
If you have selected a South Wharf or Crown Departure, then your departure time will be 30 minutes PRIOR to the regular tour start time shown on this email.
Please ensure you are ready by this time as we will not be able to wait. Click Here for further Departure Information.
What to Bring
There are no mandatory items required for this tour—just bring yourself!
- Sea Sick Tablets or Similar: Please note – the Cruise DOES head into open water. Sea Sick Prevention Methods are advised. Some of these are sold on board the boat as well.
A few additional items for a great experience you may like to bring:
- Small Day Bag: You may wish to bring a small day bag that can be left on board during the tour.
- Warm Clothing: Regional Victoria can get chilly, even in summer. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with refill stations available throughout the day.
- Phone Charger: Most buses have charging ports, but consider bringing a portable battery pack if you plan to take lots of photos.
- Snacks: The day’s journey is approximately 12 hours.
- Spending Money: Some stops may accept card payments only.
Special Note
During the months of May through August, tour timings will be adjusted slightly to account for seasonal changes. As the Penguin Parade occurs earlier in winter and the Seal Cruise does not return until 4:00pm, our visit to the Nobbies will be shortened to approximately 10–15 minutes.
Rest assured, we’ll still make this a memorable stop—with time to capture a golden moment and take in the stunning coastal views. You’ll also enjoy plenty of wildlife sightings during our scenic backbeach drive.
Dietary or Special Requirements
This tour DOES NOT include Food or Drink – however, you will have adequate time to to get Lunch prior to your Cruise and Dinner prior to the Penguin Parade.
Please let us know:
- If you have special requirements.
Without prior notice, we cannot guarantee accommodations on the day of the tour.
Start Your Day the Melbourne Way
Enjoy a complimentary coffee to kickstart your adventure! Redeem your free coffee voucher at The Protagonist Café located right near the Melbourne Arts Centre.
Click here to claim your coffee voucher!
Thank you, and we look forward to an incredible day with you!
