Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour from Melbourne

Melbourne , Australia

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour from Melbourne

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About this experience

With a relaxed 2pm departure from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station (Coach Terminal) we head straight to Phillip Island via the Bass Coast Hyw with panoramic views of Western Port & French Island.
Crossing onto Phillip Island at San Remo our first stop is Seal Rocks and the Nobbies Centre to take a walk along the boardwalk and soak in the stunning views back towards the Mornington Peninsula from Phillip Island’s most western point.

And then it’s onwards to the main event, the Phillip Island penguin tour. Just after dark every night, the world’s smallest penguins waddle ashore after spending the day fishing out at sea. You’ll be truly captivated as the stars of the show emerge from the surf and pass right before your eyes on their journey back to their burrows.

An evening meal (own expense) can be enjoyed prior of after the Penguin Parade depending on season. Our return to Melbourne is direct via the Monash Freeway for a mid evening arrival back to Southern Cross Station.

Available options

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour from Melbourne

Upgrade to Penguin Plus

Penguins Plus Viewing: Get up close and personal with the little penguins from the extra special Penguins Plus grandstand at the Penguin Parade.

What's included

Bottled water

WiFi on board

English speaking driver / guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Quaint fishing village on Western Port Bay & entry point to Phillip Island.

During day light saving time ( Summer ) we stop at Cowes for opportunity to enjoy dinner, explore the foreshore or enjoy a drink at one of the many hotels or cafes'

Stop 3

Take a stroll along the boardwalks to soak up breathtaking coastal views. Overlooking the Bass Strait, the Nobbies boasts spectacular clifftop views, prolific sea bird life along with Little Penguins still in the burrows that have not ventured out to sea.

From The Nobbies Centre to the Penguin Parade, we take the dirt coastal road, stopping for scenic views or wildlife photo opportunities as they arise. ( Mainly Wallabies & Cape Barron Goose )

Stop 5

We generally arrive 70 minutes prior to the anticipated arrival of the Little Penguins for you to fully explore the visitor education centre or secure a prime vantage spot. Our schedule departure is 70 to 80 minutes after arrival of the penguins once again giving you maximum opportunity to see the habits and generally going about their business on the way to their burrows opposed to leaving early.

What's not included

Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.5

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time.

If less than 10 travelers are booked a modern mini van may be utilized

No photography or filming is permitted at the Penguin Parade. Penguins have sensitive eyes and a bright, sudden flash or unusual light can frighten or disorientate a penguin.

Meeting point

Bus Bay 58 at Southern Cross Station, best entrance is off Spencer st opposite Little Burke st.

Important notes

Your ticket will be issued by your driver guide for entry to the Penguin Parade

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes