From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour

From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour

This full-day tour from Melbourne takes you on a scenic journey to Phillip Island, where you’ll witness the world-famous Penguin Parade at sunset. For around 9.5 hours, you’ll travel comfortably in a premium bus with Wi-Fi, USB ports, and toilet facilities, making the long day feel effortless. The tour costs about $75 per person, offering a surprisingly good value considering the variety of sights and experiences packed into it.

A couple of things we love: First, the stunning coastal scenery along the Bass Coast Highway, with panoramic views of Western Port and French Island. Second, the up-close encounter with adorable little penguins as they waddle ashore after a day at sea—an experience so unique it leaves a lasting impression.

One thing to consider is the timing—the Penguin Parade occurs just after sunset, meaning you’ll likely be out late, especially in summer when it can stretch to around 11:00 PM. This makes it less ideal if you’re an early riser or traveling with very young children.

This tour suits those who want a relaxed, guided day that combines scenic coastal sights with the magic of seeing penguins in their natural habitat. If wildlife, beautiful views, and insightful guides appeal to you, this is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi, USB ports, and restrooms enhances the long drive.
• Scenic stops at Seal Rocks, Nobbies Centre, and Cowes provide stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Close-up penguin viewing at sunset offers a uniquely intimate wildlife experience.
• Knowledgeable guides such as Shane, Justin, and Wade are repeatedly praised for their helpful, friendly attitude.
• Flexibility at stops allows for optional meals and exploring local towns.
• Good value considering the included entry ticket, scenic stops, and commentary.

The Experience in Detail

Starting from Melbourne

The tour begins at Southern Cross Station, where you’ll hop aboard a luxurious, modern bus. As you settle into your seat, you’ll quickly notice the Wi-Fi and USB charging points, perfect for sharing your scenic photos or catching up on messages during the drive. The toilet onboard means you can skip the discomfort of long waits or stops, which is appreciated on a 9.5-hour day.

The journey takes you along the Bass Coast Highway, where the views of Western Port and French Island are breathtaking. The scenery is what makes this route special — endless stretches of coastline, beaches, and the occasional glimpse of coastal towns that seem to cling to the shoreline. It’s a calm, relaxing way to start your adventure, and the commentary from guides like Shane and Justin makes the trip fly by.

First Stops: Seal Rocks and Nobbies Centre

Crossing onto Phillip Island at San Remo, your first stop is Seal Rocks and the Nobbies Centre. Here, you walk along a boardwalk that offers stunning views of Seal Rocks, home to a large colony of fur seals. This is a fantastic photo opportunity, especially for wildlife lovers, and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive.

The Nobbies are famous for their rugged rock formations and aggressive seabirds, which you might see nesting or soaring overhead. The views back toward the Mornington Peninsula during these stops are often described as spectacular. During winter, the Nobbies visit might be omitted due to weather or timing, but even in other seasons, it’s a highlight.

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Exploring Cowes

From September to late March, the tour usually includes time in Cowes, the main town on Phillip Island. Here, you can grab an early meal or a cool drink at a local café or pub. Many reviews highlight how much they appreciated this relaxed break — a chance to enjoy some local flavor and prepare for the evening ahead.

The Penguin Parade

The core of the experience is the Penguin Parade, which starts just after sunset. The smallest penguins in the world emerge from the surf and waddle up the beach to their burrows. Guides like Justin and Shane are praised for their helpful tips on where to sit for the best views and their informative commentary about the penguins’ habits.

While you can’t take photos once the parade begins (a rule to protect the penguins from disorientation), the up-close viewing with the passion and patience of guides makes for a truly magical moment. Several reviewers mention how adorable and waddling these little creatures are, with one describing it as “a magical experience.”

Additional Wildlife & Scenic Stops

On the way, guides often point out other native animals like wallabies, kangaroos, and even echidnas, adding extra value to the trip. As one reviewer raved, “Justin explained many tips about where to sit for the best possible view and shared interesting information.”

Return Journey

After the parade, the bus heads back in a direct route via the Monash Freeway. Expect to arrive back at Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station around 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM, depending on how long you linger at the parade and stops. Some reviews mention the late return as a minor downside, especially in colder months, but most consider the experience worth the wait.

Transport and Comfort

The premium bus truly makes a difference on such a long day. With Wi-Fi, you can upload your photos or check social media, and the USB ports keep devices charged. The restroom onboard is also appreciated, particularly given the duration of the trip. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guides are consistently praised for their friendly, informative style.

The Value for Money

At $75, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that covers transport, entry fees, and expert commentary. The reviews are filled with comments like “Justin was a great guide, very helpful and funny,” indicating the quality of the guiding staff. The stops along the way, the wildlife sightings, and the iconic penguin viewing make this a cost-effective day trip for wildlife enthusiasts or anyone looking to see something truly special.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure suits nature lovers, families, or couples wanting an easy but enriching day out. If you enjoy scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and evening wildlife viewing, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Reviewers universally praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, making it perfect for those who want a memorable, well-organized experience without the stress of planning.

If you’re after an authentic wildlife encounter with a focus on close-up penguin viewing and scenic coastal stops, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, it’s a late night, so plan accordingly if you’re staying in Melbourne or have early commitments the next day.

The Sum Up

The From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Express Tour is a well-rounded, value-packed day that offers a chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife in a relaxed, guided setting. The scenic coastal stops, the insightful commentary, and the adorable penguins make it a choice that many travelers remember fondly.

It’s especially ideal for those who want an easy-to-book, guided experience that combines scenic beauty with a genuine wildlife spectacle, all at an affordable price. The late-night aspect might be a consideration, but for most, the magical penguin parade and beautiful scenery outweigh the inconvenience.

If you’re in Melbourne and craving a memorable wildlife experience with great guides and stunning views, this tour hits most of the right notes. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to tick the penguins off their bucket list.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs in the afternoon from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, with timings typically allowing arrival back around 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

Will I be able to take photos of the penguins?
No, flash photography is not allowed once the parade begins to protect the penguins. However, guides often advise on where to sit for the best views, and the experience is more about the moment than photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally suitable for families, keep in mind the late finish and outdoor late-night viewing. Bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly, especially after sunset.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; you can buy food in Cowes or at other stops. Many reviews mention enjoying local cafes and pubs during the stop.

What is the weather like?
The tour takes place outdoors, and weather can fluctuate. It’s advisable to bring waterproof and warm clothing, even in summer, as it can be windy and chilly near the water.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While the information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, the bus is a modern, comfortable vehicle, and stops are primarily along boardwalks, so check with the operator beforehand if needed.

How many people are in a group?
Group sizes tend to be manageable, with many reviews highlighting friendly and attentive guides that cater well to small and large groups.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour from Melbourne combines scenic coastal drives, wildlife encounters, and one of Australia’s most beloved natural spectacles. It’s a great choice if you want to experience the charm of Phillip Island without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: