Twelve Apostles sea stacks at sunset along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road

Phillip Island & Penguin Parade Private Tour

Phillip Island Wildlife & Penguin Parade

Penguin Parade
Native Wildlife
Coastal Views
Nature Walks
Experience Churchill Island, koalas, scenic coastal lookouts and the world-famous Penguin Parade on a private Phillip Island escape.


Tour Details

Price

From $1300 AUD

Duration

Approx. 11.5 Hours

Pick Up & Return

Hotel pick-up & return (CBD & inner suburbs)

When Can I Go

Daily, All year round

Departure Time

10:30 AM APR - SEP
12:30 PM OCT - MAR (DST)

Group Size

1-7 Guests

Ages

All ages welcome
Child seats on request

Vehicle

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Return Distance

310 km / 193 mi

What to expect

10:30 AM / 12:30 PM (DST)

Pickup from Melbourne CBD or nearby accommodation

Depart mid-morning (10:30 AM outside daylight savings, 12:30 PM during daylight savings) and settle in for a relaxed coastal drive to Phillip Island.

Early Afternoon

Churchill Island

Explore heritage gardens and bay-view trails; watch Western Port Bay sparkle along the shoreline.

Mid Afternoon

Koala Conservation Reserve

Stroll treetop boardwalks to spot dozing koalas at eye level; listen for birdsong in the gums.

Late Afternoon

Lunch in Cowes

Enjoy a relaxed seaside lunch in the island’s main township; wander the foreshore at your own pace.

Evening

The Nobbies

Follow boardwalks to cliff-edge lookouts; feel the Bass Strait swell and watch blowholes with views toward Seal Rocks.

Sunset

Penguin Parade

Settle into your vantage point as little penguins waddle ashore at dusk; savour the hush and tiny footsteps.

Late Evening

Return to Melbourne

Travel back in comfort and arrive in Melbourne between 9:30PM–11:30PM, with the penguin parade memories still fresh in mind.

Whats Included

  • Private tour in a luxury vehicle
  • Door-to-door hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Friendly, knowledgeable local guide
  • Entry to Churchill Island
  • Entry to Koala Conservation Reserve
  • Entry to Penguin Parade (standard viewing)
  • Flexible, scenic itinerary & photo stops
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats on request (please advise ages)

What to bring

  • Jacket or warm layers (Penguin Parade can be chilly; beanie/gloves in winter)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat, sunscreen & sunglasses (daytime)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Money for meals & souvenirs
  • Camera

Enhancements

  • Phillip Island Go-Karts
  • Scenic Helicopter flight over Phillip Island (25 Minutes)
  • Penguins Underground viewing (subject to availability)
  • Wine tasting & lunch at a winery

Tour FAQs

Are entry tickets included?

Yes — your tour includes entry to Churchill Island, the Koala Conservation Reserve, and general admission to the Penguin Parade (standard viewing).

Can we upgrade our Penguin Parade viewing?

Premium viewing upgrades are available (subject to availability) at additional cost. Let us know when booking and we’ll organise the best option for your group.

Can I take photos at the Penguin Parade?

No photography is permitted after sunset when penguins begin arriving. Please follow ranger instructions; keep flashes off and screens dimmed, and put cameras/phones away once the ban applies.

Is this tour suitable for children and families?

Yes — it’s family-friendly with short walks and engaging wildlife viewing. Child seats can be provided on request (please advise ages). Note the late finish around sunset.

What should I wear for the evening?

Coastal evenings can be chilly and breezy. Bring a warm jacket or layers, and comfortable walking shoes. In daylight hours, a hat and sunscreen are recommended.

Are there bathroom and meal stops?

Yes — we plan regular comfort stops and time in Cowes for meals at your own expense. Your guide will recommend good local options before the Parade.

How much walking is involved?

Mostly short, easy walks on boardwalks and formed paths. We tailor the pace to your group and the evening schedule.

Is the tour accessible?

Yes — Churchill Island, the Koala Reserve, and Penguin Parade have accessible options. Tell us any requirements when booking and we’ll arrange assistance or seating where possible.

What vehicle do you use?

A luxury Mercedes-Benz people mover with leather seats, climate control, and phone charging on board for a comfortable evening return.

What happens in poor weather?

The Penguin Parade runs in most conditions and can be unforgettable in wind or light rain. We adjust timing and route to make the most of the weather on the day.

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