Phillip Island Penguin Parade Small-Group with Lunch and Wine

This tour promises a full day of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and local flavors, all packed into about 12 hours. It’s designed for those who want to see the best of Phillip Island without the hassle of planning, with a focus on small-group intimacy, expert guides, and authentic experiences. From the moment you start, the emphasis is on leisurely exploration—nothing rushed, plenty of time to soak in the sights—and a good mix of nature, culture, and local indulgence.

Two aspects we particularly love are the boutique wine tasting in Gippsland, paired with picturesque scenery, and the up-close views of those playful penguins at sunset. The tour’s smaller group size means more personalized attention and less crowding, which makes for a more relaxed, enjoyable day.

One potential hiccup is the timing at the penguin viewing site, as some reviewers felt they didn’t get enough time for optimal viewing. Nature can be unpredictable, and the penguins are often less active than some expect, which could affect the experience if your goal is a grand wildlife spectacle.

This tour suits travelers who value guided insights, scenic stops, and a mix of wildlife and wine—perfect if you’re after a well-rounded taste of Phillip Island’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or overly rushed schedules.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures a relaxed, personalized outing.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes wine tasting, wildlife, beaches, and the Penguin Parade.
• Expert guides help you understand and appreciate each stop.
• Flexible options include an upgrade to better penguin viewing seats.
• Value for money considering the inclusions like wine, lunch, and entry tickets.
• Authentic experiences, from boutique wineries to discovering hidden beaches.

A Full-Day Adventure with Authentic Flavors and Stunning Sights

If you’re like us, you appreciate tours that combine nature, culture, and a bit of luxury. This Phillip Island tour ticks all those boxes, delivering a balance of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and local indulgences—all packed into a manageable day. What sets it apart is its small-group format, allowing for a more intimate experience, and its roster of carefully curated stops, each adding its own flavor to the journey.

Start in Melbourne: Setting the Tone

Your adventure begins at the Arts Centre Melbourne, where you’re treated to a complimentary coffee—an excellent way to fuel up before a long day. The journey then kicks off with a luxury midi-coach that promises comfort and ample space, including USB charging ports, which are surprisingly appreciated on long trips.

San Remo and Phillip Island: Coastal Charm and Wildlife

The first real taste of Phillip Island’s scenery comes in San Remo, a charming coastal town where the iconic Phillip Island Bridge welcomes you to Bass Coast. Here, you can stretch your legs, watch resident pelicans, and snap some photos of the rugged shoreline. It’s a laid-back start that hints at the natural beauty ahead.

Arriving on Phillip Island, the tour offers a choice: visit the Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Koala Conservation Reserve to spot koalas, wallabies, and native birds, or explore Cowes, the island’s main township, with its beaches and relaxed streets. The koala reserve upgrade is a highlight for wildlife lovers, offering elevated boardwalks and guaranteed koala sightings—just a quick $15 extra if you choose at the time.

Wine Tasting at Phillip Island Winery

A standout part of the tour is the boutique Phillip Island Winery, where you can sample award-winning Gippsland wines. The guided tasting of six local wines is complemented by a generous grazing board with cheese, bread, figs, and olives. The setting is scenic, and the relaxed pace lets you savor the flavors without feeling rushed. Multiple reviewers praise this stop, noting the delicious wines and the welcoming atmosphere—“the best part was the wine tasting and cheese platter,” one guest recalls.

Beach and Wildlife Highlights

Next, the tour takes you to Flynns Beach, where the golden sands and crystal waters provide a perfect break for photos and a bit of seaside tranquility. Then, optional visits to the Nobbies Centre offer spectacular views from clifftop boardwalks, where you can watch for seabirds, fur seals, and wallabies—an area most travelers find both picturesque and wildlife-rich.

The Penguin Parade: A Night to Remember

The evening’s centerpiece is the world-famous Penguin Parade. Your general viewing ticket grants access to the Summerland Beach site, where thousands of tiny penguins waddle ashore at sunset. Expect a magical, if subtle, display—some reviewers mention that the penguins are less active during molting seasons, which can influence the experience. “The penguins are adorable, but not as many as I expected,” one traveler notes, highlighting the unpredictability of nature.

You can upgrade to Penguin Plus or Penguin Discovery tickets for closer views—many say it’s worth the extra if seeing more penguins up-close is a priority. The interactive visitor center and optional dinner options provide a full evening atmosphere, with the added bonus of finishing the day with a toast of sparkling wine on the Nobbies cliffs as the sun sets—a memorable way to end.

Comfort and Convenience

Throughout the day, the coach’s comfort and the guide’s knowledge shine. Guest reviews consistently praise guides like Yuri, Mike, and Russell for their friendly, informative approach. The small-group size means fewer people and more chance to ask questions or take Photos.

Extra Touches and Considerations

While most reviews rave about the experience, some mention that the timing at the penguin site can feel a bit rushed, and food options in the evening might leave some waiting. We’d recommend planning your own snacks if you’re worried about hunger, especially since dinner at the Penguin Parade can involve long waits.

The tour is priced at $168.55 per person, which, when you factor in the wine tasting, entry fees, and guided commentary, seems reasonable for a full day of curated experiences. Many guests feel they’re getting good value, especially with the small-group intimacy and expert guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and local flavors with minimal hassle. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours that focus on authentic encounters rather than just ticking boxes. If you’re after a more personalized, relaxed day exploring Phillip Island’s best bits—from vineyards to penguins—this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s also great for couples, families, or small groups seeking a memorable day that combines nature, local culture, and a dash of luxury. The inclusive nature of the tour, with wine tastings and optional wildlife stops, offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes luxury coach transportation from Melbourne, ensuring a comfortable journey with plenty of space and amenities.

How long does the entire tour last? The tour runs for approximately 12 hours, starting at 11:00 am and returning around 11:00 pm, depending on the evening’s penguin parade timing.

Can I upgrade my penguin viewing tickets? Yes, upgrading to Penguin Plus or Penguin Discovery tickets is available, offering closer views and more interaction with the penguins.

What should I bring for the day? Bring layers for changing weather, a camera, your booking confirmation, and optional snacks or drinks if you prefer. A small bag is suitable, as the coach space is limited.

Are there any options for wildlife viewing besides penguins? Yes, you can opt for the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you might see koalas, wallabies, and native birds, with elevated boardwalks for guaranteed glimpses.

Is this tour suitable if I have dietary restrictions? The winery’s grazing board includes a variety of foods, and the tour staff generally accommodate dietary needs—just make sure to specify your requirements in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Phillip Island tour offers a well-balanced day of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and local indulgences. Its small-group setting makes it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers, creating a more personal experience. The stops at the winery and beaches add a relaxing touch, while the penguin parade remains a highlight—whether you’re there to see thousands of penguins or just enjoy a sunset with bubbly in hand.

For travelers who value authenticity and comfort, and prefer a guided experience that moves at a relaxed pace, this tour hits the mark. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to see Phillip Island’s most famous residents, sample regional wines, and enjoy the natural beauty of Australia’s coast—all in one carefully curated day.

To sum it up, this tour is a smart pick for anyone wanting a comprehensive, enjoyable, and memorable day out of Melbourne. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply seeking a scenic escape with a chance to see the world’s cutest penguins, it offers a satisfying blend of all three. Expect warm guides, beautiful vistas, and a taste of local life—worthy of your time and money.