Private Tour of Phillip Island & Penguins with personal tour guide

Experience the magic of Phillip Island with a private guide—visiting stunning beaches, wildlife, and the famous Penguin Parade in a personalized 9-hour tour.

This private tour takes you from Melbourne to the picturesque Phillip Island, where you’ll explore iconic sites like the Nobbies, Cape Woolamai, and the quaint town of Cowes, finishing with the unforgettable spectacle of penguins returning home at sunset. For $1,662.43 per group (up to 6 travelers), you gain the flexibility of a fully customizable itinerary, led by your own knowledgeable guide. The tour lasts roughly 9 hours, making it an immersive yet comfortably paced day.

What we love most is the chance to see wildlife in natural settings—swamp wallabies hopping around, penguins waddling ashore, and the Cape Barren Geese—all with a personalized touch that larger tours can’t match. Plus, the included general penguin viewing tickets ensure you witness the parade without extra worry or expense.

A potential consideration: since the tour is tailored and private, it’s priced higher than group tours, so it’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a more intimate experience. If you’re after authentic wildlife encounters and enjoy expert guidance, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a cookie-cutter trip. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a memorable, stress-free day with a local guide will find this experience rewarding.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Customizable itinerary with your own guide and vehicle.
• Wildlife & Nature: Close encounters with penguins, wallabies, and ocean vistas.
• Convenience & Comfort: Pickup, luxury vehicle, bottled water included.
• All-Inclusive on Tickets: Penguin viewing tickets and entry to Nobbies are covered.
• Optimal Timing: Designed to catch the penguins at sunset for the best viewing.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, making it intimate and flexible.

Why Choose This Private Tour of Phillip Island?

There’s something special about having your own guide—someone who knows the ins and outs of Phillip Island and can tailor your day based on your interests. The fact that you get general viewing tickets to the Penguin Parade included means no sourcing additional tickets or worrying about missing the prime time. This convenience, paired with the ability to customize, makes it especially appealing.

Many travelers appreciate the knowledge and warmth of guides like Clare, who step in last minute or adapt plans based on weather or preferences. One reviewer called her “warm, funny, and extremely knowledgeable,” highlighting the value of a guide who genuinely cares about your experience.

The stunning coastal stops, such as Cape Woolamai and Summerlands, give you sweeping views and photo opportunities. The Nobbies Centre is a highlight too, where you’ll spot penguin burrows, Swamp wallabies, and Cape Barren Geese—a true wildlife sanctuary.

The tour’s flexibility makes it a good fit for families, couples, or groups wanting a more relaxed, personalized day. Travelers who have limited time but want a comprehensive experience of Phillip Island’s natural beauty will find this tour rewarding.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade

This is the star attraction, and the tour gets you there at sunset, the best time to see the penguins emerge from the sea and waddle home. With tickets included, you won’t need to scramble for tickets or worry about availability. We loved the way guides like Clare make the experience informative and fun, sharing facts about penguin behavior and the local ecosystem. Expect to see the penguins in their natural rhythm, often returning just as the sky turns pink and orange.

Stop 2: The Nobbies Centre

A short drive from the penguin viewing area, the Nobbies offers dramatic ocean views and the chance to observe penguin burrows from a distance. The Summerlands Peninsula is a wild, scenic spot where you can enjoy the ocean breeze—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The presence of Swamp wallabies and Cape Barren Geese adds to the wildlife charm. One reviewer mentioned the “fresh ocean breeze,” emphasizing how this stop can be both invigorating and relaxing.

Stop 3: Cowes

This quaint seaside town provides a peaceful break and a chance to stretch your legs. You might find yourself scanning the sky for Southern Cross and The Milky Way if you’re lucky—an enchanting end-of-day detail. Walking around Cowes also allows for a quick browse of local shops or a coffee break.

Stop 4: Cape Woolamai Beach

The rugged headland and surf are a photographer’s dream. You might catch sight of local surfers riding the waves or simply enjoy the vast ocean views. The stop’s brief but scenic, offering a chance to appreciate the power of the sea and the natural beauty of the coastline.

Stop 5: Summerlands Lookout

This final stop offers panoramic vistas of the island’s landscape—rolling hills, the ocean, and distant islands. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo or to simply soak in the view before heading back to Melbourne.

What Does the Tour Feel Like?

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the personalized attention. One reviewer shared, “Mark is the best tour guide I’ve had in Australia,” emphasizing how guides make the experience engaging and tailored. Another noted how the guide’s flexibility even allowed a slight detour, making the day more enjoyable and less rushed.

The luxury vehicle and included bottled water contribute to a comfortable experience. Since the tour is private, you can ask questions, change plans slightly, or linger longer at scenic spots.

The timing is carefully arranged so you arrive at the Penguin Parade at sunset, which many describe as a magical moment. Watching the penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing is genuinely captivating—a highlight that many reviews mention as worth every cent.

Pricing and Value

At over $1,660 for up to 6 people, this tour isn’t the cheapest option but offers significant value for those wanting an exclusive, personalized experience. The price includes all tickets, transportation, and bottled water, which simplifies the day and avoids surprise costs.

Compared to group tours or self-guided trips, this private experience provides more flexibility and attention from your guide. It’s especially suitable for families or small groups who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and expert insights.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This private Phillip Island tour is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, private day trip with a knowledgeable guide to show you the island’s highlights. It’s well-suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or travelers wanting to avoid the crowds and enjoy a tailored experience. The inclusion of penguin tickets and stops at scenic viewpoints makes it a comprehensive and memorable day out.

If you value flexibility, expert guidance, and authentic wildlife encounters, this is a top choice. It’s especially ideal for those traveling in a small group or family who want to make the most of their limited time in Melbourne while ensuring a deeply personalized adventure.

FAQs

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 14 days ahead, as the tour is popular, especially during peak seasons.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Melbourne accommodation is offered, making the day hassle-free.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the luxury vehicle, bottled water, and all tickets to the Penguin Parade and Nobbies Center.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a private, customizable tour, so your guide can tailor stops based on your interests or weather conditions.

What about dinner?
Dinner is not included, but there are plenty of options in Cowes or nearby after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the flexible, private nature makes it accessible for most travelers, including families or those with mobility considerations.

This private tour of Phillip Island offers a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and the thrill of the Penguin Parade—delivered with personal attention and expert guidance. Perfect for those seeking a memorable, intimate day exploring one of Australia’s most iconic spots.