1 Day Exclusively Private Tour Of Phillip Island & The Penguin Parade

If you’re passing through Melbourne and dreaming of wildlife, beaches, and those adorable little penguins, a private day trip to Phillip Island might be just what you need. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from the reviews and details available, it’s clear that this experience aims to offer a tailored, relaxed way to see some of Australia’s most iconic sights.

What really catches the eye about this tour are two main points: first, its highly personalized approach—since it’s private, you’re not stuck in a big group—and second, the flexibility to pick optional attractions that suit your interests. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the itinerary is packed with options, meaning you’ll want to be clear on what you want to prioritize.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a customized, stress-free day exploring wildlife and coastal scenery without the rush of a large coach tour. If you’re not into rigid schedules and prefer a guide who can adapt to your interests, this could be a solid pick. Just keep in mind that children under 12 aren’t permitted, so it’s more for adult explorers or older teens.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Focused solely on your group, with flexible stops.
• Wildlife encounters: Koalas, penguins, and possibly other native animals.
• Optional attractions: Wineries, museums, and parks available with upgrades.
• Penguin Parade: Pre-paid tickets included, with upgrade options for better views.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, bottled water.
• Weather considerations: Tours run in all weather, so dress accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour packs a lot into around 11 hours, starting at the appointed meeting point in Southbank and winding through some of Phillip Island’s most beloved spots. The day kicks off around 11:00 am, giving you a late-morning start, which can be handy if you prefer a relaxed morning.

Stop 1: Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Parks

The highlight for many, this is where you’ll see hundreds of little penguins returning to their burrows at sunset. The pre-paid general viewing tickets included in the tour are a good deal, though there’s an option to upgrade to a Penguins Plus ticket for a closer, more intimate view. Tour organizers supply warm blankets to keep you cozy while watching these charming creatures waddle home.

Multiple reviews mention the professionalism of the guide and the seamless process. One reviewer, Stacey, noted, “James was fantastic—very professional and ensured our day was a success,” which speaks to the quality of guide service. The Penguin Parade is a definite must-see, and having pre-arranged tickets saves you from long lines and sold-out shows.

Stops at Wildlife Reserves: Koalas & Other Animals

The tour includes visits to the Koala Conservation Centre and the Maru Koala and Animal Park. These spots allow close-up encounters with koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals, making it a great experience for animal lovers. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s efforts, saying, “James reached out in advance for any last-minute details,” which shows the tour’s attention to guest experience.

The F Oswin Robert Koala Reserve is another highlight where your guide will help you spot koalas during a guided walk. These stops are well-loved for their authentic wildlife encounters—no crowded zoos here, just close views within natural settings.

Optional Extra Attractions: Wineries, Museums, and More

A big part of this tour’s appeal is the extensive list of optional attractions you can include at an extra hour each. Want to visit a winery like Purple Hen Winery or explore the National Vietnam Veterans Museum? Just request the upgrade after booking.

Other optional stops include the Flynns Beach, Pyramid Rock, and The Nobbies Centre—famous for stunning coastal views and seals. Some attractions, like Seal Rock eco-boat tours, require advance booking and additional costs, so if that’s on your list, plan ahead.

Wineries and Cultural Stops

The Purple Hen Winery and Phillip Island Winery are perfect if you’re into wine tasting. These stops are brief, about 30 minutes, but they add a nice leisure element to your day. The Visitor Information Centre is a quick stop for souvenirs and restroom breaks—good for stretching your legs.

Additional Attractions & Flexibility

What stands out is how the tour allows you to customize your experience. For example, if you’re interested in historical insights, upgrading to include the National Vietnam Veterans Museum is available. Alternatively, nature lovers may want to add longer visits to the Nobbies Centre or Moonlit Sanctuary.

Transportation & Comfort

The entire trip takes place in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi on board, which makes a big difference on a long day. The tour is private, so your guide can adapt the pace. One review appreciated the bottled water and warm blankets, which make evening penguin viewing more comfortable.

Pricing & Value

At $169 per person, this tour is a reasonable investment considering the inclusions—especially the pre-paid tickets and private transportation. The flexibility to choose optional attractions means you can tailor the day to your interests, making the price feel more justified.

While it may seem like a lot of optional extras, keep in mind that each of these upgrades is an add-on, and you’re not forced to do them all. This allows you to control your budget and experience.

What Some Reviewers Say

Most reviews are glowing about the guide, James, describing him as professional, communicative, and enthusiastic. Stacey called the day with James “a wonderful experience,” highlighting the personalized touch and attention to detail.

However, there’s a notable review from Jack_G warning against booking, citing poor communication and disconnected contact info. While this seems isolated, it’s a reminder to confirm all arrangements and be prepared for unforeseen hiccups.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour fits travelers who value a relaxed pace and tailored experience. If you’re keen on wildlife and want to avoid huge crowds, it’s a solid choice. It’s perfect for adults or older teens who can appreciate wildlife viewing and who enjoy a bit of flexibility in their day.

It’s less suitable for young children under 12, as the tour explicitly excludes them, and some optional attractions might be more suitable for older participants. If you’re looking for a family-friendly option with lots of scheduled activities, you might want to explore other tours.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip to Phillip Island offers a blend of wildlife, coastal scenery, and customizable stops—all in a comfortable, private setting. The pre-paid tickets to the Penguin Parade and visits to wildlife reserves make it convenient, especially if you want a hassle-free day.

The flexibility to tailor the day with optional attractions means you can focus on what interests you most, whether that’s wildlife, wine, or cultural sites. The guide’s professionalism and the overall organization appear to make for a smooth experience, but always double-check communications ahead of time.

If you’re after a peaceful, personalized way to meet Australia’s iconic animals and enjoy some scenic spots with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be just right. Just be clear about your interests and expectations, and you’ll likely have a memorable day on Phillip Island.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 12? No, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour, making it more suited for adult travelers or older teens.

What’s included in the tour price? The tour covers entrance fees to all attractions visited, pre-paid general viewing tickets for the Penguin Parade, visits to wildlife parks, a private vehicle, WiFi, bottled water, and a professional guide.

Can I upgrade my Penguin Parade ticket? Yes, upgrade options like the Penguins Plus ticket are available at an additional cost, subject to availability.

How flexible is the itinerary? The tour offers a range of optional attractions, each with an extra hour available for upgrade. Your guide can help tailor the day, but note that not all stops are guaranteed.

What should I bring? Dress appropriately for weather conditions—think comfortable shoes, layers, waterproof jacket, and a warm jumper. It’s a long day, so snacks and a camera are recommended.

Are the attractions accessible? While the description doesn’t specify accessibility details, most wildlife parks and scenic spots are generally accessible. Confirm specifics if needed.

What if the weather is bad? Tours operate in all weather conditions. If severe weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Curious about this trip? With its personalized approach and wealth of wildlife and scenic attractions, it’s an experience that many travelers find well worth the investment—especially if you value a tailored, relaxed day exploring some of Australia’s best sights.