Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Island Excursion

Melbourne



Join a one-day adventure from Melbourne to Phillip Island! Ride the Puffing Billy Train, discover native Australian wildlife, enjoy stunning coastal views, and watch the unforgettable Penguin Parade.

This full-day tour from Melbourne suits nature lovers seeking a steam train ride, wildlife encounters, and a penguin parade experience on Phillip Island.

Highlights

  • Ride the Puffing Billy Steam Train through the Dandenong Ranges
  • Close encounters with native Australian wildlife at Maru Koala and Animal Park (optional)
  • Watch little penguins return to shore on Phillip Island
  • Coastal views from The Nobbies observation platform

Description

Your day begins with a pick-up in Melbourne and a visit to Brighton Beach to see the iconic rainbow huts (subject to timing). Next, board the Puffing Billy Steam Train to travel through the Dandenong Ranges and enjoy its natural scenery.

After the train ride, you may choose to visit the Maru Koala and Animal Park for close-up wildlife experiences (additional cost applies, available depending on train schedules).

Then continue to The Nobbies Viewpoint to overlook the coast and its diverse wildlife. Dinner is available at The Nobbies Centre or in Cowes (meals not included). At sunset, observe the little penguins as they return from the sea to their beach nests.

Includes

  • Bilingual driver-guide (English and Chinese)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Air-conditioned transportation
  • Puffing Billy Railway ticket
  • Penguin Parade ticket (excluded if 'without penguin experience' option selected)
  • Tolls, parking, fuel costs, and taxes
  • Tips and gratuities

Excludes

  • Admission to Maru Koala and Animal Park
  • Hotel accommodation
  • Food and drinks
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Other personal expenses not mentioned

Important Information

  • Vehicle size adjusts to group size
  • Pick-up details confirmed one day before the tour
  • Vehicles are not wheelchair accessible
  • Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Itinerary subject to change due to real-time conditions, with prior notice given

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and dress for variable weather. Book in advance to secure your preferred date and select the penguin experience option if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a steam train ride on Puffing Billy, wildlife encounters at Maru Koala and Animal Park, a penguin parade on Phillip Island, and coastal views from The Nobbies observation platform.
The Puffing Billy steam train ride takes place through the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne.
Yes, the tour offers optional close encounters with native animals at Maru Koala and Animal Park.
The penguin parade occurs at dusk when little penguins return to shore; exact times vary by season.
Yes, the full-day tour includes pick-up and drop-off from selected locations in Melbourne.
You can enjoy coastal views from The Nobbies observation platform on Phillip Island.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure your place on the popular full-day Melbourne tour.
The excursion is a full-day experience, typically lasting around 10 to 12 hours from Melbourne.
Meals are generally not included; check the tour details to confirm dining options during stops.
The tour usually starts with pick-up in central Melbourne, with an optional visit to Brighton Beach to see the rainbow huts.

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