Phillip Island Penguin Parade & Puffing Billy from Melbourne

Explore the forested hills and island coastline beyond Melbourne on a shared bus tour with an English-speaking driver-guide and live commentary. Combine a heritage railway journey with the chance to watch wild little penguins return from the ocean after sunset, with return transport included.

Itinerary

1. Depart from Melbourne.
2. Spend 30 minutes photographing the colourful bathing boxes at Brighton Beach. This stop may be skipped if the Puffing Billy train departs early.
3. Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the forests of the Dandenong Ranges for 40 minutes. Your train ticket is included.
4. Explore Maru Koala and Animal Park for 1 hour, with opportunities to see kangaroos, koalas and other native wildlife. This optional stop depends on the day's schedule; admission is at your own expense and is not included in the listed price.
5. Take in ocean views and coastal cliffs at The Nobbies during a 30-minute stop. This stop may be adjusted or skipped depending on the season and Puffing Billy timetable.
6. Spend 1 hour at Phillip Island's Penguin Parade, watching for wild little penguins returning from the ocean to their burrows after sunset. General viewing admission is included.
7. Return to Melbourne, with drop-offs at 42 Russell Street, 270 Queen Street and 220 Spencer Street, in that order. Return times vary by season with the penguins' return to shore.

What's Included

• Puffing Billy steam-train ticket; the specific railway section is not guaranteed
• Penguin Parade general viewing admission
• Return transport from Melbourne
• Driver-guide gratuities

Important details

• This activity is not wheelchair-accessible.
• Pets are not permitted.
• Do not bring alcohol or illegal substances. If you appear intoxicated, you may be refused service without a refund.
• Arrive at the meeting location 5 minutes before departure.