Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Island Excursion

Taking a day trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island offers a mix of scenic train rides, wildlife encounters, and the famous Penguin Parade. This tour, offered by Djones Holidays, balances adventure with comfort, making it appealing for travelers looking to see a lot in one day. While it’s not the cheapest option, the blend of activities and the chance to see iconic Australian sights make it worthwhile for many.

We like that this experience combines the nostalgic charm of a steam-powered train, the opportunity for close wildlife interactions, and the unforgettable sight of penguins returning home at sunset. The guides have received praise for their knowledge and helpfulness, adding extra value to the day. One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can change depending on real-time circumstances, so flexibility is key.

This trip is particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a well-rounded day of sightseeing, don’t mind a full schedule, and are eager to learn from knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of nature, history, and wildlife, all in manageable segments. Families, wildlife lovers, and those new to Melbourne will find this tour offers a compact but satisfying snapshot of Victoria’s highlights.

Key Points

• Scenic steam train ride through the Dandenong Ranges offers picturesque views and nostalgic charm.
• Close encounters with native Australian wildlife make the experience educational and fun.
• Penguin Parade at sunset creates a magical, once-in-a-lifetime moment.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Guides with multilingual skills (English & Chinese) cater to diverse travelers.
• Value for money considering the variety of activities included, despite some optional extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Melbourne, which is a real convenience. The exact pick-up time and location are confirmed a day before, allowing you to prepare accordingly. Depending on your hotel location and train timing, you might also stop at Brighton Beach, famous for its colorful beachfront huts. However, this stop can be skipped if schedules are tight, so it’s worth checking with your guide about the plan.

Puffing Billy Steam Train

The highlight for many is the steam train ride through the Dandenong Ranges. This vintage locomotive offers a charming, nostalgic journey through lush forests and rolling hills. The train ride is not just a means of transportation but an experience in itself, with the smell of steam and the rhythmic clatter of the wheels providing a sensory delight.

Travelers have praised the experience, with one reviewer noting: “We enjoyed the day, and the driver/guide Ken was great, very informative and helpful.” The train ride varies in duration but generally lasts long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Wildlife Encounters at Maru Koala and Animal Park

Post-train, you have the option (additional cost) to visit Maru Koala and Animal Park. This stop is highly valued by wildlife enthusiasts who want to get close to Australia’s iconic animals like koalas, kangaroos, and other native species. One reviewer remarked, “The guide David Chen was super professional! He arranged everything well and shared lots of interesting info.”

The actual visit length depends on train timings and your interest, but it adds an interactive element to the day. Be aware that this is an optional activity, and some travelers might prefer to skip it if pressed for time.

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Coastal Views and The Nobbies

Next, your journey takes you to the Nobbies Viewpoint, where spectacular coastal vistas unfold. From this observation platform, you can see rugged cliffs, the open ocean, and the vast seal colonies below. This spot is perfect for photos and soaking in the natural beauty of Phillip Island’s coastline.

The Nobbies also provide easy access to observing diverse wildlife, particularly seabirds and seals, which many reviewers find fascinating. The tour includes general viewing tickets here, meaning you can enjoy the vistas at your own pace.

Dinner Options and Penguin Parade

As evening approaches, you’ll enjoy dinner either at the Nobbies Centre or in Cowes, the main township on Phillip Island. Meals are not included in the tour price, giving you flexibility to choose your favorite local spot or grab a quick snack.

The pièce de résistance is the Penguin Parade, where you’ll witness these adorable creatures returning from their day at sea to their burrows. The parade begins after sunset, so timing is crucial. Reviewers have expressed that this is an unforgettable sight, with one stating, “Watching the little penguins come ashore was truly magical.”

The tickets provided are for general viewing, which offers a good vantage point. The parade’s timing varies with sunset, but it’s consistently a highlight for visitors.

Transport, Duration, and Group Size

The tour features comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with the vehicle size adjusted based on group size. Pick-up and drop-off are included, easing the logistics. The total duration can range from 8 to 12 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and pace.

Group sizes tend to be small or medium, fostering a friendly atmosphere. One reviewer appreciated a “smaller group, friendly and helpful guide,” making the experience more personalized. The tour operates in both English and Chinese, enhancing accessibility for diverse travelers.

Price and Value Analysis

At $119 per person, this tour offers good value considering the variety of activities and the convenience of guided transport and tickets. While activities like the wildlife park are optional and not included, the core experiences—steam train ride and penguin parade—are well covered. For wildlife and nature lovers, the chance to see iconic Australian animals and scenery in one day balances out the costs.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews point out that the tour can feel rushed, especially if activities are cut short, or traffic affects timing. For example, one traveler noted that the penguin island visit was only 15 minutes—far less than the brochure’s 1.5-hour estimate—due to scheduling constraints.

Plus, the tour’s itinerary can change depending on real-time factors like weather or traffic, so flexibility and patience are essential. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, as vehicles are not equipped for wheelchair access.

Authentic Insights and Tips

Based on reviews, guides like Ken and David are praised for their professionalism and knowledge, which greatly enhances the experience. They not only share facts but also keep the group engaged and well-informed, making the trip educational as well as fun.

Some travelers have noted that the trip can be long, with some drivers driving at speeds below the limit or experiencing exhaustion after a full day. If you’re prone to fatigue, consider whether a full-day schedule suits your pace.

Regarding the penguin parade, arrive early enough to get a good viewing spot, as it’s a popular event. Pack a warm layer—penguins come ashore after sunset when it gets chilly—and bring a camera with a good night setting if you want photos.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This excursion is ideal for families and wildlife lovers wanting an efficient way to see Phillip Island’s highlights. It suits travelers who enjoy historic train rides and are eager to witness one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. The guided aspect makes it perfect for those unfamiliar with the area or who prefer a structured day.

It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule, don’t mind optional extras, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. However, those requiring wheelchair access or looking for a slower-paced, more flexible day may want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Island Excursion presents a compelling package for travelers seeking a well-organized, enriching day trip. The steam train ride offers nostalgic charm and scenic views, the wildlife encounters add interaction and fun, and the Penguin Parade provides a truly special moment at sunset.

Although some reviews mention time constraints and the optional nature of certain activities, the core experiences—train ride and penguins—are distinctly memorable. The guides’ professionalism and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off make it a practical choice for many visitors.

This tour offers good value for anyone wanting an active, varied day that captures the essence of Victoria’s natural beauty and unique wildlife. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to tick off iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Melbourne hotel, making it convenient to start your day.

Can I visit Brighton Beach during this tour?
Yes, Brighton Beach with its rainbow-hued huts is a potential stop, but it may be skipped based on train timings.

Is the wildlife park visit included?
No, visiting Maru Koala and Animal Park is optional and requires an additional fee. The main included activities are the train ride and penguin parade.

How long is the Penguin Parade?
The parade occurs after sunset and is generally a short but magical event, with general viewing tickets providing a good vantage point.

What is the group size like?
The group size tends to be small to medium, fostering a friendly atmosphere. The vehicle is adjusted based on the group’s size.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can purchase food at the Nobbies Centre or in Cowes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be comfortable with a full day of activities and in a group setting. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring for the penguin viewing?
Bring warm clothing, a camera with night settings, and patience, as viewing spots fill up early.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and iconic Australian experiences in a single day. For travelers eager to pack a lot into limited time, it offers a practical, engaging, and memorable adventure through Victoria’s natural and cultural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: