Penguin Parade Express Private Tour Melbourne to Phillip Island
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Ideal for travelers with limited time, focuses on the must see highlights without unnecessary stops or large coach crowds. Enjoy direct hotel pickup in Melbourne and a comfortable, nonstop drive to Phillip Island for a smooth and time-efficient experience.
Visit The Nobbies coastal boardwalks, one of Phillip Island’s most scenic viewpoints, before experiencing the world-famous Penguin Parade at sunset. Traveling in a private vehicle allows for flexible timing, a relaxed pace, and better photo opportunities compared to standard group tours.
This express tour includes Penguin Parade General admission tickets, so there’s no need for pre-booking or extra costs. After the parade, unwind on the return journey back to Melbourne with convenient drop-off at your accommodation.
Perfect for couples, families, cruise passengers, and visitors seeking a private Penguin tour from Melbourne, this express experience delivers Australia’s iconic wildlife in a stress-free, time-smart, and premium way.
Available options
Penguin Parade Express Private Tour Melbourne to Phillip Island
Pickup included
What's included
WiFi on board
Bottled water
Penguin Parade General Viewing Ticket
Private Tour for 1-3 guests
Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Pickup and drop-off from your designated accommodation
USB-C charging ports available in vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your private Penguin Parade Express with a convenient pickup from your Melbourne location. Enjoy a comfortable, approximately 2-hour direct drive to Phillip Island, passing through picturesque regional towns and countryside along the way. This scenic journey offers a glimpse of Victoria’s coastal and rural landscapes before arriving at the world-famous Penguin Parade.
2
Stop 2
The Nobbies boardwalk offers sweeping views of Bass Strait. Offshore at Seal Rocks, you’ll find Australia’s largest fur seal colony. On some days, you may spot them basking on the rocks or swimming in the surf
3
Stop 3
Every evening at sunset, hundreds of little penguins return from the ocean after a day of fishing. They’re the smallest penguins in the world, only about 33 cm tall. It’s one of Australia’s most magical wildlife encounters. Please remember: no photography or video is allowed, as it can harm the penguins’ sensitive eyes.
4
After witnessing the unforgettable Penguin Parade, relax on the comfortable return drive back to Melbourne. Travel through the quiet regional roads of Phillip Island and Victoria’s countryside as you unwind after the evening experience. The journey back to Melbourne takes approximately 2 hours, with drop-off at your original pickup location.
What's not included
Feel free to bring your own packed lunch, or explore the plenty of options in cafes and restaurants
Available languages
Guide guide
TE
HI
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
