Our Picks For The 9 Best Shore Excursions In Melbourne

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most dynamic cities, famous for its lively laneways, world-class food scene, and nearby natural beauty. When your cruise ship docks at Station Pier, you’ll find that Melbourne offers a surprising variety of shore excursions that showcase both urban charm and stunning landscapes. Whether you want to cuddle a koala, sip local wines, or marvel at the iconic Twelve Apostles, there’s something for every traveler. We particularly love tours like the Moonlit Sanctuary wildlife experience for animal lovers, and the private Great Ocean Road trip for scenic views and a personalized touch.

Melbourne’s shore excursions stand out because they combine ease (many tours include round-trip transportation), authentic local experiences, and options suited for different interests and budgets. Some tours offer full-day adventures into Australia’s natural habitat, while others focus on Australia’s famous wine regions or coastal landmarks. Whichever you choose, booking in advance will ensure you make the most of your time in port and avoid missing out on these memorable outings.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a mix of group tours, private experiences, and shorter excursions designed to fit various schedules and interests. Highlights include wildlife encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary, breathtaking views from Arthurs Seat, and the spectacular coastlines along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you prefer a full-day tour or a quick half-day trip, these experiences provide a genuine taste of what makes Melbourne and its surrounds special. For a detailed look at each option, scroll down to learn more about these popular tours.

1. Shore Excursion Melbourne, Sights, Kangaroos, Koalas Lunch & Wine

At number one, this 7-hour shore excursion offers a well-rounded introduction to the Mornington Peninsula, combining wildlife, scenic views, and local wine. The tour begins with a visit to the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you can hand-feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and see Tasmanian devils—an experience that’s hard to beat for animal lovers. The sanctuary cares deeply about animal welfare, making this both fun and responsible.

From there, you’ll visit Dendy Street Beach to admire the famous bathing boxes, then enjoy a two-course lunch paired with local wine at Merricks General Store. The last stop is Arthurs Seat, where a short drive takes you to the 314-meter summit offering sweeping views over Port Phillip Bay—a perfect photo op. This tour is praised for its friendly guide and smooth logistics, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive day. The included lunch and wine tasting add great value, and the wildlife encounter is memorable.

Bottom line: If you love animals, scenic coastal scenery, and local wine, this tour packs a lot into a manageable day. It’s perfect for families and first-timers alike.

2. Private 12 Apostles Express Tour – Shorter

For around $946.76 per group (up to 7 people), the private 12 Apostles tour offers a streamlined experience that skips the crowds and unnecessary stops. It’s an 8-hour, focused trip designed for travelers pressed for time or seeking a more exclusive adventure.

The tour covers Loch Ard Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and history of shipwrecks, and the iconic Twelve Apostles, which are famously photogenic at sunrise or sunset. If time permits, you’ll also visit London Bridge, a striking natural formation that’s worth the brief exploration despite its partial collapse. The private nature means your guide can tailor stops based on your interest, providing a flexible and intimate experience, all in a spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan.

Guests consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, with one reviewer noting how breathtaking the scenery was and how well-timed each stop was. Since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for couples or small groups wanting a personalized day without the hassle of crowded buses.

Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice for small groups wanting a quick, tailored look at Victoria’s coast with minimal fuss.

3. Melbourne Shore Excursion: Private City Tour 5 Hours

If you prefer to stay closer to the city, the private 5-hour Melbourne city tour offers a rundown of Melbourne’s highlights. Starting from your cruise port or hotel, this tour takes in the Brighton Beach bathing boxes, Shrine of Remembrance, Old Treasury Building, and Parliament House. The guide then leads you through the laneways filled with street art and hidden cafes, giving you a true taste of Melbourne’s vibrant downtown.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore the city’s architecture, history, and street culture without feeling rushed. It’s a good fit for those with limited time but eager to experience Melbourne’s essence. The guide’s local insights make this tour stand out, and being private means you can customize your stops if desired.

Guests have described it as a very enjoyable city exploration, especially thanking the guide for his knowledgeable commentary. The tour’s value lies in its flexibility and focus on Melbourne’s urban charm.

Bottom line: For a personalized, city-focused experience, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction in just a few hours.

4. Melbourne and Moonlit Sanctuary Shore Excursion

This 8-hour tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Australian animals. It kicks off with a visit to Brighton Beach to see the colorful bathing boxes, then heads to Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park to meet kangaroos, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and dingoes.

The tour also includes a scenic city tour of Melbourne’s notable sights, offering a balanced mix of wildlife close-ups and urban exploration. The sanctuary emphasizes animal welfare, and visitors love the opportunity to handle a koala and feed kangaroos—one of the few tours where you can get so hands-on. The entire experience is designed to maximize your wildlife encounters in a relaxed setting.

With a 5-star average review, travelers praise the friendly guide and the chance for close animal encounters. The tour is a great choice for families or anyone wanting an authentic Australian wildlife experience combined with some city highlights.

Bottom line: If being close to Aussie wildlife is your priority, this tour offers a memorable, hands-on experience with expert-guided insights.

5. Shore Excursion – Healesville Sanctuary – Private Group – Max 7 PAX

This private, full-day Yarra Valley tour offers a premium wildlife experience at Healesville Sanctuary, where you can see koalas, kangaroos, and emus in natural settings. The tour combines wildlife with scenic views from Mt Donna Buang, reaching the summit for panoramic overlooks.

What makes this trip stand out is the inclusion of a treetop walk through the rainforest and a visit to Wild Cattle Creek Estate for wine tasting. The guide, who is a local resident, is praised for taking you to lesser-known spots and making the experience feel personalized. The day ends with a visit to Warburton Bakery for a classic Aussie meat pie and lamington.

Priced at $1,100 for up to 7 people, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking luxury and exclusivity. It’s best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Yarra Valley’s wine, wildlife, and scenic delights with fewer crowds.

Bottom line: Perfect for small groups seeking a luxurious, customizable day combining wildlife, wine, and stunning views.

6. Melbourne Shore Excursion, Aussie Wildlife, Lunch, Wine & Sights

This 7-hour small-group tour is all about experiencing the essence of Melbourne’s wildlife, food, and scenery. Starting with a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary, you’ll get to see kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and dingoes, with the chance to hand-feed some animals. Afterwards, the tour heads to the Mornington Peninsula’s famous Merricks General Store for a gourmet lunch paired with local wines.

The last stops include Arthurs Seat for spectacular views and Brighton Beach to admire the bathing boxes. The tour offers a relaxed pace, making it suitable for families and those wanting a genuine taste of regional Australia. It’s a good balance of wildlife, scenic views, and culinary experiences, with reviews highlighting how much fun and informative the guide is.

Bottom line: This tour is great if you want a full, relaxed day combining wildlife, scenic overlooks, and excellent local food and wine.

7. Cruise Ship Shore Excursion – Private Great Ocean Road Express Tour

For those eager to see one of the world’s most scenic coastlines, this private Great Ocean Road tour covers the highlights in about 9 hours. It departs directly from Station Pier, making it ideal for cruise passengers.

This tour features the Great Ocean Road from Aireys Inlet to Apollo Bay, including stops at Split Point Lighthouse, the iconic Archway, and the rugged coast near Bells Beach. Notably, this tour excludes the 12 Apostles, focusing instead on the less crowded, equally stunning sections of the coast. The guide provides insights into the history and geology of the region, making this a story-rich journey.

Guests appreciate the comfortable Mercedes van and the flexibility of a private guide. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid large bus crowds and prefer a more tailored experience of the coast.

Bottom line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting a scenic, personalized coastal tour without the crowds.

8. Private Shore Excursion with Aussie Wildlife in Melbourne

This private 7-hour wildlife and wine tour takes you into the Mornington Peninsula, renowned for its wine and natural beauty. Starting at Moonlit Sanctuary, you’ll enjoy close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and emus. The tour then moves to Merricks General Store for a delicious lunch paired with local wines.

Driving to the highest point on the Peninsula, Murrays Lookout, you’ll get sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay. The tour wraps up with a visit to the local vineyards and regional wineries. This tour scores high on flexibility and exclusivity, with excellent reviews praising the guide’s local knowledge and personalized approach.

Priced at $1,721.38 for up to 6 people, it offers a premium experience for travelers who want to combine wildlife, scenic drives, and wine tasting in a single day.

Bottom line: Ideal for small groups craving a customized, upscale day combining wildlife, wine, and scenic vistas.

9. Melbourne Shore Excursion, Wine Region, Wildlife, Shared Tour

For budget-conscious travelers, this shared 7-hour tour offers a relaxed way to experience Melbourne’s surrounding wine region and wildlife. Starting with a visit to Brighton Beach’s famous bathing boxes, the tour then visits Moonlit Sanctuary for close-up wildlife encounters.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch with a glass of wine at Merricks General Store, and finish with a stop at Arthurs Seat for panoramic views. The tour emphasizes local stories and scenic highlights without the high price tag, making it suitable for travelers on a tighter budget. Though the reviews are unranked, the itinerary’s focus on combining wildlife, wine, and scenic vistas makes it an appealing choice for many.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want to see the highlights at an affordable price with a friendly, small-group environment.

How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Melbourne

When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If wildlife and scenic coastal views top your list, the Moonlit Sanctuary and wildlife tours deliver close encounters and natural beauty. For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, the private tours and Yarra Valley options provide flexibility and exclusivity.

Budget-conscious visitors may prefer the shared tour that combines key highlights with a lower price. Meanwhile, those with limited time should consider the shorter private 12 Apostles trip for maximum scenery in a compact format.

Booking early guarantees your spot, especially in peak season or for popular tours like the Great Ocean Road. Think about your comfort level—if you prefer an intimate, curated experience, private tours are best. For a relaxed, social atmosphere, group adventures work well.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s shore excursions offer a broad spectrum—from wildlife encounters and coastal drives to urban explorations. If you love animals and scenic vineyards, the Moonlit Sanctuary combined with wine tasting makes for a memorable day. For those craving spectacular coastlines, the private Great Ocean Road is a must-do.

Whether you want a full-day adventure or a brief city stroll, these tours let you make the most of your limited time in port. Booking early and choosing the right experience for your interests will ensure your Melbourne shore excursion is a highlight of your trip.