From Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of Phillip Island is an unforgettable experience, and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour from Melbourne offers a comprehensive way to do just that. Visitors can enjoy the island’s diverse wildlife, from hand-feeding kangaroos to witnessing the iconic Penguin Parade. With a carefully curated itinerary and convenient transportation, this tour provides an educational and engaging journey. But the true highlight may lie in the dramatic coastal landscapes, where the Nobbies and Seal Rocks offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s rugged beauty.

Key Points

• This 12-hour bus tour from Melbourne takes visitors to Phillip Island, where they can experience the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park and witness the iconic Penguin Parade.

• The Moonlit Sanctuary offers a guided tour and opportunities to view various Australian wildlife, including wombats, koalas, kangaroos, and dingoes, as well as optional activities like taking a photo with a koala.

• Visitors can observe kangaroos, wallabies, and the elusive Tasmanian devils at the Moonlit Sanctuary, gaining an appreciation for the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting Australia’s remarkable wildlife.

• The tour includes a visit to the Nobbies and Seal Rocks, providing sweeping views of the Phillip Island coastline and a chance to spot seabirds before the main event: the Penguin Parade.

• The Penguin Parade allows visitors to witness the nightly procession of little penguins emerging from the waves and waddling ashore, with the option to upgrade to the Penguin Plus viewing platform.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 12-hour bus tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island offers visitors the chance to experience the magic of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, explore the stunning Cape Woolamai surf beach, gaze upon the Nobbies and Seal Rocks, and witness the iconic Penguin Parade.

The guided tour at Moonlit Sanctuary allows guests to view wombats, koalas, kangaroos, and dingoes, with optional activities like photo ops with koalas and hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies.

At the Nobbies and Seal Rocks, visitors can take in the scenic coastal vistas.

The tour culminates with the Penguin Parade, where little penguins return home for the night, with an upgrade option for a better viewing experience.

Moonlit Sanctuary

One of the highlights of the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour is the guided tour and free time at Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where visitors can observe a variety of native Australian wildlife. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to view wombats, koalas, kangaroos, and dingoes in their natural habitats. Plus, there are optional activities, such as taking a photo with a koala or hand-feeding the kangaroos and wallabies.

Wildlife Viewing	Optional Activities
Wombats	Photo with Koala
Koalas	Hand-feed Kangaroos
Kangaroos	Hand-feed Wallabies

The Moonlit Sanctuary experience allows visitors to connect with Australia’s unique fauna in an immersive and educational setting.

Wildlife Viewing

At Moonlit Sanctuary, visitors can observe a diverse array of native Australian animals in their natural habitats. From the iconic koala lounging in the eucalyptus trees to the playful wombats burrowing underground, the sanctuary provides an up-close encounter with these beloved creatures.

The wildlife viewing experience includes:

• Observing the graceful movements of kangaroos and wallabies as they roam freely
• Witnessing the dingoes, Australia’s native wild dogs, in their enclosure
• Catching a glimpse of the elusive Tasmanian devils, known for their fierce appearance and unique vocalizations

These intimate interactions allow visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts at Moonlit Sanctuary and the importance of protecting Australia’s remarkable wildlife.

Optional Activities

Visitors to Moonlit Sanctuary can partake in several optional activities to enhance their wildlife experience. For an additional fee, guests can pose for a photo with a koala, hand-feed the friendly kangaroos and wallabies, and immerse themselves even further in the sanctuary’s natural wonder.

Optional Activity	Cost (AUD)
Koala Photo	$22
Kangaroo/Wallaby Feeding	$5
Both Koala Photo & Feeding	$25

These interactive experiences allow guests to create lasting memories and deepen their connection with Australia’s iconic native creatures. With so much to see and do, the Moonlit Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Nobbies and Seal Rocks

After exploring the Moonlit Sanctuary, the tour moves on to the breathtaking Nobbies and Seal Rocks, where sightseers can marvel at the stunning coastal scenery.

This natural wonder boasts:

• Dramatic clifftops and rocky outcrops overlooking the churning Southern Ocean
• Sweeping views of the Phillip Island coastline and Seal Rocks, home to a thriving fur seal colony
• The opportunity to spot a variety of seabirds, including cormorants, gulls, and the majestic Australian gannet

Visitors can wander along the boardwalks, snap photos, and soak in the serene, rugged beauty of this iconic Australian destination before continuing on to the main event: the Penguin Parade.

Penguin Parade

The highlight of the Phillip Island Eco Tour is the Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness the nightly procession of little penguins as they waddle ashore and return to their burrows after a day of fishing at sea.

These enchanting creatures, the world’s smallest penguins, emerge from the waves at dusk and make their way across the beach in small groups, delighting onlookers.

Visitors can choose to upgrade to the Penguin Plus option, which provides a better viewing platform and a more intimate experience.

Whether watching from the standard viewing area or the Penguin Plus platform, this is a truly magical moment that captures the essence of Phillip Island’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Tour Details

Commencing from selected hotels in Melbourne, the 12-hour Phillip Island Eco Tour includes pickup and drop-off services. Providing live guides, the tour also covers transportation and all park entrance fees. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

The tour is likely to sell out, so guests are advised to reserve their spots now and pay later. Plus, the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

The tour is a popular choice, so early booking is recommended.

Guests can expect a live guide to accompany them throughout the experience.

All park entrance fees are included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless experience.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour typically provides pickup and drop-off services from selected hotels in Melbourne, offering convenience for participants. This service ensures that travelers don’t have to worry about transportation to and from the starting point of the tour.

The pickup locations are strategically chosen to cater to those staying in central areas, minimizing the need for long commutes. Once the tour concludes, the drop-off service takes visitors back to their original pickup locations, completing the seamless experience.

This added perk of pickup and drop-off allows guests to focus on enjoying the tour’s highlights without the hassle of navigating their way to the starting point or finding transportation back to their accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement, though it may not be suitable for very young children. Parents should consider their child’s ability to handle the length and activities of the tour.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour. A picnic lunch or snacks can be enjoyed during the free time at the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.

Are There Restrooms Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available during the tour. Restrooms can be found at the Moonlit Sanctuary, the Nobbies, and the Penguin Parade site, providing visitors with access to facilities throughout the excursion.

Can We Arrive Late and Still Join the Tour?

Arriving late may not be possible, as the tour has a set schedule to ensure guests arrive on time for key activities like the Penguin Parade. It’s best to plan to join the tour at the scheduled departure time.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

There is no mention of senior or student discounts for this tour. The tour price appears to be fixed, though early booking may provide some savings. Guests should check with the tour operator directly for any special discount information.

Recap

The Phillip Island Penguin Parade Eco Tour from Melbourne offers an immersive experience showcasing the natural wonders of the island.

Visitors can explore wildlife sanctuaries, witness the iconic Penguin Parade, and marvel at the dramatic coastline.

With live guides and convenient transportation, this tour delivers an educational journey to the heart of Phillip Island’s unique fauna and stunning landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: