Melbourne: Puffing Billy Railway & Penguin Parade Day Tour

Thinking of a day trip that offers a slice of everything—beautiful scenery, historic trains, and Australia’s cutest wildlife? This 12-hour tour promises just that, combining two of Melbourne’s top attractions: the famous Puffing Billy Steam Railway and the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island. It’s a well-rounded experience for those wanting a taste of nature, history, and wildlife without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we like most about this tour is its diversity—a charming train ride through lush forests and mountain scenery, followed by the chance to watch hundreds of penguins waddle back ashore at sunset. Plus, the optional visit to Maru Koala & Animal Park lets you get up close with iconic Australian animals. That said, it’s a long day with some driving—so if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each stop, this might not be your perfect fit.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate well-organized group excursions, enjoy a mix of scenic travel and wildlife, and want to maximize their Melbourne visit without spending days on the road. It’s suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a comprehensive yet flexible day out.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary combining scenic train rides, wildlife encounters, and coastal views
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and helpful tips
• Flexible stops like Maru Koala & Animal Park add optional wildlife fun (additional fee)
• Excellent for first-timers wanting a curated, hassle-free day with memorable sights
• Long but rewarding day with plenty of driving, so be prepared for a full schedule
• Great reviews on value, with many travelers citing the day’s organization and guides as highlights

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The Day Begins: Convenient Pickup & Scenic Coach Journey

Starting from three central Melbourne locations—Lonsdale Street, Spencer Street, or Bourke Street—you’ll board a comfortable coach that whisks you away towards the Dandenong Ranges. The drive takes about 75 minutes, during which your guide will likely share tidbits about Melbourne and the surrounding landscape. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of suburban and rural Victoria.

Puffing Billy: A Classic Victorian Experience

The highlight for many is the ride aboard Puffing Billy, Australia’s most iconic steam train. Built in the early 20th century, this historic locomotive chugs through rolling green hills, tall eucalyptus trees, and charming forests. We loved the way it feels like stepping back in time—cranking along narrow tracks with the wind in your hair and the woods rushing past.

The duration of this part varies but typically lasts about an hour. You’ll travel between Belgrave and Gembrook, with plenty of photo opportunities—especially if you’re lucky enough to get a window seat on the platform side for the best views. Several reviews mention that getting on the right side of the train offers superior scenery.

This train ride isn’t just about transportation; it’s a nostalgic experience that captures the essence of Victorian railway history. Many guests describe it as “so much fun,” and some mention dangling their legs out of the carriage, feeling like kids again.

Optional: Meet Australia’s Wildlife at Maru Koala & Animal Park

After the train, the tour often includes a stop at Maru Koala & Animal Park (additional fees apply). This is a chance to get hands-on with native wildlife—hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, and see other Aussie animals like wombats and dingoes.

Many travelers, like Amanda from Canada, rave about the park, highlighting the personal connection with wildlife as a memorable part of the day. “I loved how I could feed the kangaroos and take photos with the koalas,” she said.

However, since this is an optional activity, it’s worth noting that it might not be included every day, depending on timing. Also, there’s an entrance fee, so budget accordingly if wildlife encounters are a priority.

Coastal Views at The Nobbies

Next, you’ll stop at The Nobbies, a scenic coastal location on Phillip Island. The cliff-top boardwalk provides sweeping views of Bass Strait and the chance to see the blowholes as waves crash against the rocks. The scenery here is dramatic, with rugged cliffs and abundant seabirds.

Expect to spend about 30 minutes exploring this area. Many reviewers mention how stunning the views are, often citing it as a “beautiful photo stop.” It’s a quick but impactful way to connect with Australia’s wild coast.

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The Penguin Parade: Sunset and Little Penguins

The final and most anticipated part of the tour is at Summerland Beach, home to the world-famous Penguin Parade. As the sun sets, hundreds of tiny Little Penguins waddle ashore, returning to their burrows after a day at sea.

Guided tours often include helpful advice on the best viewing spots—many travelers find that sitting on the sand dunes or near the penguin viewing platform yields the best experience. One guest shared that their guide provided “great tips on where to see them best,” making the encounter even more magical.

The parade lasts about 1.5 hours. While some reviews—like Andrew’s—mention that the penguins’ numbers were smaller than expected, most agree it’s an adorable, unforgettable sight.

Returning to Melbourne

After witnessing the penguins, the coach takes you back to Melbourne, with a roughly 2-hour drive. Many guests appreciate the relaxing ride back, often using the time to reflect on the day’s highlights or review photos.

Practical Details & Tips

Departure times vary with the season, from 8 AM to 12 PM in winter months and 10 AM to 2 PM in summer, depending on Puffing Billy’s schedule and penguin activity. Be sure to wear a jacket—it can get chilly at the coast—and bring sunglasses and a credit card for optional extras.

While the tour is English-guided and offers skip-the-line tickets, remember that the schedule is quite packed. If you want a more relaxed pace, consider whether this full-day adventure suits your travel style.

What Reviewers Say

Many travelers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Michelle from the US appreciated how her guide, William, “spoke about the history of Melbourne and points of interest,” making the day both informative and fun. Others, like Steven from Canada, highlighted the smooth logistics and the fact that the guide made sure no one was left behind.

Some found the long hours and driving a bit tiring, but most agree that the value for money and the variety of experiences outweigh the fatigue. For instance, Andrew from the UK called it a “great trip” with “plenty of stops to break up the drive.”

The wildlife encounters—feeding kangaroos, watching penguins—are repeatedly cited as highlights, with many guests saying they would do the tour again or recommend it to friends.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Puffing Billy and Penguin Parade day trip offers a well-rounded taste of Victoria’s natural and historic charm. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic train rides, wildlife, and coastal views in one managed, enjoyable package. Families, wildlife lovers, and first-time visitors will find it a satisfying way to see a lot without the stress of planning.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want extra time at each site, this might feel rushed. It’s also best suited for travelers comfortable with long days and some bus travel.

For anyone seeking a balanced experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy the combination of a historic train ride and seeing penguins. Just be mindful of the long day and dress warmly for the coastal sunset.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are around 30 minutes to an hour, with the Penguin Parade being about 1.5 hours. The train ride varies but is roughly an hour.

Is the optional wildlife park visit included in the price?
No, it’s an optional add-on that requires an extra fee. It’s popular among guests who want to get up close with Australian animals.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket, sunglasses, and a credit card for extras. The weather can change quickly near the coast.

How early do we need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup times depend on the season, with departures between 8 AM and 12 PM in winter and 10 AM to 2 PM in warmer months. Check your confirmed time.

Are there any meal options included?
The tour provides some breaks for lunch or snacks, but meals are not included. You might find opportunities to buy food during stopovers.

How is the group size?
The tour tends to operate in small to medium groups, making the experience more intimate and allowing guides to offer personalized tips.

In summary, this tour offers a satisfying day packed with natural beauty, historic charm, and adorable wildlife. It’s especially suited for those eager to see a variety of iconic Australian sights with the convenience of a guided, all-in-one experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby