Phillip Island is a haven for wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those simply looking for a memorable day out. Its rugged coastlines, abundant marine life, and iconic penguin parade make it a perfect spot for guided tours that bring the island’s natural charm to life. We love how easy it is to see Australian fur seals, dolphins, whales, and penguins in their natural environment—especially on the Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise, which offers close-up views of Australia’s largest fur seal colony. The variety of tours here caters to different interests and schedules, from quick scenic cruises to full-day adventures with wine tastings and farm visits. Whether you want to see whales during their migration or enjoy a relaxed boat trip, Phillip Island’s tours deliver authentic experiences that are well worth planning ahead for.
Quick Overview
Phillip Island’s top tours include wildlife cruises (seal, dolphin, whale), the world-famous Penguin Parade, scenic boat trips, and combo passes that combine multiple attractions. Highlights include the Phillip Island: Seal Watching Cruise, which puts you right alongside playful fur seals, and the Whale Watching Tour, where seasonal humpback and southern right whales make spectacular appearances. For those interested in combining wildlife with cultural and culinary experiences, the Penguin Parade and Winery Feast offers a full day of exploring beaches, vineyards, and the coast. Each tour has its own charm—some focused on wildlife, others on scenic vistas or local food—and all are designed with practical details to make your visit easier and more enjoyable.
1. Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise
At number 1, the Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise is a standout for wildlife lovers. For around $69.16 per person, you get about 2 hours on a catamaran floating around the island, with stunning views from both indoor and outdoor areas. The cruise takes you close to Australia’s largest fur seal colony at Seal Rocks, where you’ll see hundreds of seals lounging on rocks and swimming in the bays. The onboard live commentary enriches the experience by sharing insights about the seals, seabirds, and dolphins that often join the scene. Many reviewers highlight how approachable and friendly the crew is, making it easy to relax and focus on the wildlife. During the trip, you may also spot dolphins, whales, and penguins—if you’re lucky! It’s an ideal choice if you want a relaxed, informative, and wildlife-rich experience.
Bottom line: A highly rated, family-friendly cruise offering excellent value for close encounters with seals and more.
2. Phillip Island: 1-Hour Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise
At number 2, the Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise delivers a quick but scenic taste of Phillip Island’s rugged coastline. For just $30, in about an hour, you’ll cruise the blue waters off Cape Woolamai, one of the most dramatic parts of the island. The tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to see seabirds like cormorants and gannets soaring overhead. Comfortably relaxing, this cruise includes coffee and cake, making it an enjoyable way to soak in the natural beauty while enjoying a snack. Reviewers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, deeming it a worthwhile add-on or standalone experience.
Bottom line: An affordable, hour-long scenic cruise suited for travelers wanting a quick, picturesque escape.
3. Philip Island: Seal Watching Cruise
Ranking third is the Seal Watching Cruise, which focuses on Australia’s largest fur seal colony. For $67, this 2-hour cruise offers an intimate look at thousands of seals, many of which lounge on rocks or swim just off the coast. The experience is enhanced by regular sightings of dolphins, penguins, and seabirds, with onboard commentary providing educational insights. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly crew and the opportunity to see seals up close in their natural habitat—something that makes this trip stand out. The scenic coastal backdrop makes this a peaceful yet exciting outing.
Bottom line: Excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see a massive seal colony and coastal scenery in one trip.
4. Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour
Number 4 on our list, the Whale Watching Tour is the best pick for marine life aficionados. For about $118.65, this 4-hour cruise takes you on a stylish vessel to see humpback whales, often during their migration season. The tour includes stops at Seal Rocks, where thousands of seals gather, as well as chances to spot dolphins and seabirds like albatross. The captain’s engaging commentary makes the experience richer, and many reviews note the thrill of witnessing whales breaching or dolphins racing alongside the boat. It’s best suited for travelers who want a longer, in-depth journey and don’t mind spending a bit more for a chance to see these majestic creatures in the wild.
Bottom line: The most comprehensive whale-watching experience, perfect for wildlife lovers with extra time and a sense of adventure.
5. Phillip Island Departure Penguin Parade Tour with Winery Feast
Ranking fifth, this Penguin Parade with Winery Feast is a full-day tour at around $115. It starts with a visit to a local winery for tastings and a delicious regional meal, then continues with exploring beaches and wildlife reserves. The highlight is witnessing the Penguin Parade at sunset, where hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach to their burrows. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of food, scenery, and wildlife, with a relaxed pace. Reviewers rave about the guide and the well-organized itinerary, making it a good value for a full day of diverse experiences.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, culture-meets-wildlife tour suited for those who appreciate good food and iconic wildlife encounters.
6. Dolphin & Whale Cruise
At number 6, the Dolphin & Whale Cruise offers a 3-hour adventure for around $88. On this trip, you’ll explore the coast with chances to see dolphins, seals, and seabirds. The cruise is comfortable, with onboard snacks and hot drinks, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Reviewers mention the thrill of seeing dolphins race alongside the boat and spotting seals at Seal Rock, making this a worthwhile outing for marine wildlife enthusiasts. It’s a shorter experience but packed with memorable sights.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for a relaxed, wildlife-rich coastal cruise during your stay.
7. Phillip Island: Penguin Parade and Multi Attraction Pass
Number 7 offers a flexible Multi-Attraction Pass, giving you access to the Penguin Parade, Koalas, and Churchill Island. For just $38, this one-day pass is great for travelers wanting to explore multiple sites without extra tickets. The penguin parade at sunset remains the star attraction, but you’ll also get to see koalas and explore historic farms. The value is high, especially for families or groups wanting a variety of wildlife and cultural activities. Reviews note how convenient and budget-friendly this combination is, helping maximize your time on the island.
Bottom line: Perfect for flexible, multi-site exploration with great savings and variety.
8. Phillip Island: Whale Watching Boat Tour
Ranking eighth, the Whale Watching Boat Tour spans 4 hours at about $115 per person. It focuses on spotting whales during migration and observing seals and seabirds. The boat’s large windows and onboard commentary offer an immersive experience. Reviewers mention the joy of seeing whales breaching and dolphins swimming nearby, making it suitable for serious wildlife watchers. It’s comparable to other whale tours but offers a longer, more in-depth experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for whale enthusiasts wanting a longer cruise with good opportunities for marine sightings.
9. Golden Hour Penguins Express Tour with Pickups on Phillip Island
Number 9, the Golden Hour Penguins Express, is a 5-hour tour priced at around $81.36. It handles all logistics for seeing the penguins at sunset, with pickups from your accommodation. This tour includes time at the Nobbies and Summerlands, with the main event being the penguins waddling ashore under the golden hour’s glow. Reviewers highlight the ease of booking and how knowledgeable the guides are. It’s best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized penguin experience without the need to plan transport or timing.
Bottom line: A convenient, guided snapshot of the penguin parade, ideal for first-timers or those with limited time.
10. Philip Island: Dolphin and Whale Cruise
This 3-hour boat cruise at number 10, costing around $86, is dedicated to spotting whales and dolphins in their migration route. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with coastal scenery. The cruise offers onboard snacks and the chance to see a variety of seabirds and marine mammals, making it an engaging, shorter excursion. Reviewers mention the excitement of dolphin sightings and seals, making this a good pick if you’re looking for a relaxed, marine-focused outing.
Bottom line: A solid choice for dolphin and whale watching with a focus on comfort and scenery.
11. Phillip Island Driving Tour with an APP
Number 11’s Driving Tour with an App costs just $15 and offers an 8-hour self-guided exploration. This tour covers key sites like Cape Woolamai, Koala Reserve, and the Penguin Parade, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s best for independent travelers comfortable with driving and wanting to customize their visit. The app provides detailed info about each stop, making it easy to navigate. Reviewers appreciate the affordable price but note that it’s best suited for confident drivers who enjoy a flexible schedule.
Bottom line: An economical, self-paced way to see Phillip Island’s highlights with the freedom to choose your route.
12. Melbourne Puffing Billy Train and Penguin Parade Day Tour Escape
This full-day tour at number 12 combines the Puffing Billy steam train with the Penguin Parade. Costing about $85.68, it offers a scenic train ride through rainforests and hills, followed by wildlife encounters and the parade at sunset. The itinerary includes stops at Brighton Beach, Maru Koala Park, and other highlights, making it ideal for travelers wanting a mix of nature, history, and wildlife. Reviewers mention the relaxed pace and the chance to see multiple attractions in one day. It’s best suited for those who want variety and don’t mind a long day out.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, scenic combo tour perfect for active travelers seeking multiple experiences.
$85.68 per person
13. Phillip Island Hop on Hop off Bus
The Hop on Hop off Bus offers an easy way to see Phillip Island at your own pace. For $23.61, you can hop on and off at numerous stops, including the Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island, and Pyramid Rock. The flexible schedule allows you to tailor your day, making it suitable for independent travelers or families. The route covers beaches, wildlife reserves, and scenic lookouts, giving you a broad overview without needing a car. Reviewers appreciate the convenience and affordability, noting it’s a simple way to cover the island’s key sites.
Bottom line: The best option for flexible, self-guided touring without the hassle of driving.
$23.61 per person
14. Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm Bus Tour
Last but not least, the Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm offers a full-day experience for about $103.23. It combines a visit to a working heritage farm with the iconic penguin march at sunset. The tour includes a stop at Churchill Island, where you can learn about farm life, try milking a cow, or watch sheep shorn. Then, you’ll enjoy the Nobbies views before witnessing the penguins waddle home in their natural habitat. Reviewers find it a well-organized, immersive way to experience Phillip Island’s rural and wildlife sides in one day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting an all-in-one, culturally rich day with wildlife and farm life.
$103.23 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Phillip Island, consider your budget, available time, and interests. Wildlife lovers might prioritize the seal or whale cruises, while families or first-timers may prefer the Penguin Parade. For flexibility, the Hop on Hop off Bus allows you to explore independently, whereas the full-day Puffing Billy and Penguin Tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights. Booking early is recommended during peak seasons, especially for popular experiences like the penguin parade or whale migration months.
Phillip Island presents a wide array of tours catering to wildlife aficionados, scenic explorers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Whether you want close encounters with seals, the chance to see whales breach in the distance, or simply enjoy the charm of the penguin parade, there’s an experience suited for you. For an active day, the full-day tours blend scenery and wildlife, while shorter cruises or the hop-on-hop-off bus are perfect for a relaxed, flexible visit. Remember to book early, plan your interests, and prepare for a memorable journey to Phillip Island.