The Small Group Philip Island Express tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature’s wonders. Travelers can expect to witness the captivating Penguin Parade at sunset, where they’ll observe the iconic little penguins as they waddle home. Beyond this iconic experience, the tour also offers opportunities to spot wild wallabies and koalas, providing a comprehensive wildlife encounter. With a scenic coastal drive, informative commentary, and a range of inclusions, this tour caters to those seeking a well-rounded exploration of Philip Island’s natural treasures. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for an adventure, this tour might just be the perfect fit.
Key Points
- The Philip Island Express tour offers a small group experience to view little penguins at the Penguin Parade and spot wild wallabies in their natural habitat.
- The 8-hour tour includes pickup from central locations, a stop at the Nobbies for wildlife viewing, and 3 hours dedicated to the Penguin Parade experience.
- The tour is priced at £71.94 per person with a late afternoon departure, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
- Opportunities to see diverse wildlife, such as wild wallabies, Cape Barren Geese, and koalas, are included in the tour.
- The tour provides general admission tickets to the Penguin Parade, bottled water, light snacks, and air-conditioned transportation with free Wi-Fi.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a small group Philip Island Express experience from Melbourne, providing an opportunity to spot penguins and wallabies in their natural habitat.
Priced at £71.94 per person, the 8-hour tour departs in the late afternoon, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can opt for the Reserve now & pay later option.
The tour includes pickup from central locations, a stop at the scenic Nobbies, and 3 hours at the iconic Penguin Parade to view the little penguins at sunset.
Bottled water, light snacks, and air-conditioned transportation with Wi-Fi are provided, making this an inclusive and convenient way to explore the wildlife of Philip Island.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Melbourne.
Pricing and Duration
This small group Philip Island Express tour from Melbourne costs £71.94 per person and lasts 8 hours. It departs in the late afternoon during the summer months, at 3:00 PM, and in the early afternoon during the winter, at 12:45 PM.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, providing flexibility for those booking the tour.
The tour’s duration ensures ample time for participants to explore the highlights of Philip Island, including the Penguin Parade and the Nobbies, while also enjoying scenic views and wildlife spotting along the way.
Pickup and Stops
Departing from either the Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne or Federation Square, this small group tour whisks travelers to the scenic highlights of Philip Island.
The tour includes a 10-minute break in San Remo and 30 minutes at the Nobbies for wildlife viewing and breathtaking ocean vistas.
The itinerary focuses on providing an express experience to see some of the island’s most captivating natural wonders, including:
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The iconic Penguin Parade, where guests can observe little penguins in their natural habitat during the sunset.
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Opportunities to spot wild wallabies in their natural environment.
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Chances to observe koalas and the unique Cape Barren Goose.
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Stunning vistas of the southern ocean.
Penguin Parade Experience
After exploring the scenic highlights of Philip Island, the tour culminates at the iconic Penguin Parade, where guests can witness the nightly return of little penguins to their burrows along the rugged coastline.
Visitors are provided with general admission tickets to the Penguin Parade, allowing them to find the best vantage point to observe the adorable seabirds as they emerge from the ocean and make their way across the beach to their homes.
The 3-hour experience offers ample time to soak in the magical moment and learn more about the penguins’ unique behaviors from on-site interpretive staff.
The Penguin Parade is the undisputed highlight of the Philip Island tour, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of these charming creatures.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWildlife Viewing Highlights
The tour also offers opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife along the scenic southern coast of Philip Island. Visitors can often catch glimpses of wild wallabies roaming the island’s grassy areas, as well as unique bird species like the Cape Barren Goose.
Plus, the tour includes a stop at The Nobbies, where guests can observe the island’s thriving koala population in their natural habitat.
Some key highlights of the wildlife viewing experience include:
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Observing the adorable and iconic Australian wallabies.
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Spotting the distinctive Cape Barren Goose, a rare endemic species.
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Marveling at the koalas lounging in the trees at The Nobbies.
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Experiencing the diverse and unique wildlife in its natural setting.
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Tour Inclusions
The tour typically includes general admission tickets to the Penguin Parade, providing visitors with access to observe the famous little penguins in their natural habitat.
Bottled water and light snacks are also provided, ensuring travelers stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
The air-conditioned vehicle features free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected and share their experiences in real-time.
Dinner and gratuities are included, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.
While the tour focuses on the Penguin Parade, visitors can also enjoy free wildlife viewing at The Nobbies, where they may spot koalas and Cape Barren Geese in their natural settings.
Recommended Attire
Given the unpredictable weather on Philip Island, visitors are advised to come prepared with appropriate attire. Bringing an umbrella, jacket, and rain gear can ensure a comfortable experience during the tour, regardless of the changing environmental conditions.
The tour also involves spending time outdoors, so warm layers and sturdy shoes are recommended.
To make the most of the wildlife viewing experience, consider packing the following items:
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Binoculars to get a closer look at the little penguins and other animals.
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Camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique wildlife.
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Sunscreen and hat to protect from the sun’s rays.
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Snacks and water to keep energized during the tour.
Customer Feedback
According to customer reviews, visitors have consistently praised the helpfulness of the tour guide and recommended upgrading to premium viewing options for better visibility of the little penguins.
Reviewers highlighted that the guide provided insightful commentary and was adept at navigating the tour to optimize wildlife sightings.
Many noted that while the general admission tickets allowed them to witness the penguin parade, upgrading to premium seating or a guided tour of the Nobbies offered a more immersive and up-close experience with the wildlife.
Recap
The Small Group Philip Island Express tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the wonders of nature.
From observing the iconic Penguin Parade at sunset to spotting wild wallabies and koalas, this 8-hour adventure provides a perfect balance of wildlife viewing, scenic coastal landscapes, and informative commentary.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an incredible day out, this tour promises an unparalleled experience.
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