Melbourne: Penguin Parade Tour with Puffing Billy Train Ride

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines scenic rail journeys, coastal vistas, adorable wildlife, and a touch of adventure, this tour is worth considering. While it’s not perfect, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Victoria’s highlights, especially for wildlife lovers and train enthusiasts alike.

What we love about this experience is the chance to ride one of Australia’s oldest steam trains, the Puffing Billy, feel the wind in your hair, and see the tiny penguins emerge at sunset, waddling across the beach to their nests. The scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges and around Nobbies adds a peaceful, nature-filled backdrop. Plus, the optional visit to Koala Park offers up-close encounters with native animals.

One possible drawback is the tight schedule and the risk of feeling rushed, especially on longer days. No dedicated time for lunch means grabbing snacks on the go, which could be a concern for those expecting a more leisurely pace. This tour appeals most to travelers seeking a blend of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and train rides without overly complex logistics.

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Key Points

Includes a scenic Puffing Billy steam train ride, one of Australia’s most iconic rail experiences.
Offers the chance to see penguins at sunset and learn about local wildlife.
Provides a comprehensive scenic drive through Victoria’s beautiful coastal and mountain areas.
A bilingual guide in English and Chinese supports a diverse group.
Value for money at $90, covering transportation, train and penguin tickets.
Good for wildlife enthusiasts, train lovers, and those wanting a full-day adventure with minimal planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting the Day: Pick-up and Brighton Beach

The tour kicks off with a pick-up in Melbourne, which is convenient for those staying in the city. The itinerary mentions a stop at Brighton Beach, famous for its row of vibrantly colored bathing boxes. However, based on train schedules, this stop might be skipped—so don’t count on lots of time here. Still, it’s a great opportunity for those iconic pictures of the rainbow beach huts.

The Puffing Billy Steam Train

The highlight for many is the ride aboard Puffing Billy, an aged yet charming steam locomotive chugging through the Dandenong Ranges. We loved the nostalgic feel of the vintage carriages and the chance to see the lush greenery whizzing by as the engine pulls along. It’s a relaxing yet exhilarating experience that provides fantastic photo opportunities and a real taste of Australia’s historic railways.

One reviewer noted, “The train ride was the best part of the trip,” and that sentiment is common. The train’s slow pace allows you to take in the scenery, with some sections offering views deep into the forested hills. The experience is suitable for all ages, though note that vehicles are not wheelchair accessible—so it might not be ideal for guests with mobility issues.

Wildlife Encounters at Maru Koala and Animal Park

Next, the tour makes a stop at the Maru Koala and Animal Park. This is an optional visit at your own expense, but many find it worthwhile for the chance to hold a koala, feed kangaroos, and see other native animals up close. One reviewer appreciated that the guide was friendly and attentive, making sure everyone was comfortable with the wildlife interactions.

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Scenic Drive and Coastal Views

After the park, the trip continues with a drive through the Dandenong Ranges, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Later, the tour heads towards Nobbies, a viewpoint that overlooks the rugged coastline and provides fantastic vistas of the ocean and wildlife—ideal for snapping memorable photos.

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Dinner Options and Sunset Penguin Parade

For dinner, you have the choice to eat at Nobbies Center or in Cowes. Since meals aren’t included, bringing snacks or opting for a quick meal in town is recommended. As evening approaches, the highlight of the day begins: the penguin parade. You’ll watch as tiny penguins emerge from the sea, waddling across the beach to their nests, a truly magical sight.

One guest described this moment as “magical,” emphasizing how special it is to witness these small creatures returning at sunset. The general viewing ticket offers a good perspective, though some may desire a closer view—this depends on availability and time of arrival.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned bus or coach for all transfers. The operator arranges the vehicle based on your group size, which typically ensures a cozy, manageable group. The entire experience lasts between 8 and 12 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and stops.

One review pointed out a concern about reckless driving by the driver, which affected the overall feeling of safety. It’s worth noting that the company takes safety seriously, but always stay attentive during transfers.

Cost and Overall Value

At $90 per person, the tour offers good value considering it includes a one-way Puffing Billy ticket, the penguin viewing ticket, and transportation. The cost covers tolls, parking, fuel, taxes, and tipping, making it a straightforward package. However, remember that meals, optional attractions like Koala Park, and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly.

Language and Guide

The bilingual driver-guide provides commentary in both English and Chinese, which can be a big plus for Chinese-speaking travelers. Reviewers appreciated the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, though some noted that instructions could be clearer in English. The guide also shares stories and anecdotes that add a personal touch to the experience.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

Bring snacks or a light lunch, as there’s no scheduled meal break.
Dress in layers, especially for the train ride and coastal viewpoints where it can get breezy.
Arrive early for the penguin parade if you want a better view, since it’s a popular event.
Confirm your pick-up location and time the day before, as arrangements can vary.
Be prepared for a long day—rest and hydration are key.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, pay attention to the bus ride’s driving style, as some reviews mentioned reckless driving.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, train enthusiasts, and those wanting a full-day exploration of Victoria’s coastal and mountain scenery. Families with children will enjoy the penguins and wildlife encounters, while couples might find the scenic train ride especially charming.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed pace or a personalized experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, those with mobility issues should check accessibility beforehand, as the vehicle isn’t wheelchair friendly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, wildlife sights, and historic train travel. The value for money is solid, especially given the inclusion of train and penguin viewing tickets, along with comfortable transportation. Guides are generally friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging.

While it’s not a luxury or leisurely day out, it’s a great option for travelers wanting to tick off multiple Victoria highlights in one manageable day. The sunset penguin parade alone makes it worthwhile for animal enthusiasts and those looking for a memorable wildlife moment.

If you’re eager to combine scenic train rides with wildlife encounters and coastal vistas, this tour is a practical, enjoyable way to get a taste of what Victoria has to offer—just be ready for a full, busy day.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day, especially since some reviewers felt the day could be rushed without a proper meal break.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary, and you should check availability for specific days. The pickup is confirmed the day before, so you’ll get details then.

How long is the train ride on Puffing Billy?
The ticket includes a one-way ride on the historic steam train, with the duration depending on the schedule but typically providing a leisurely journey through the Dandenong Ranges.

Can I see the penguins from close up?
The general viewing ticket offers a good vantage point to watch the penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach. Closer access depends on availability and the specific viewing area.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy wildlife and scenic train rides generally find this tour entertaining. However, very young children should be prepared for a long day.

Are the vehicles accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the tour vehicle is not wheelchair accessible, so this might not be suitable for guests with mobility restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as the coastal and mountain environments can be breezy and cool, especially in the evening during the penguin parade.

What happens if there’s bad weather?
The itinerary may be subject to change in case of adverse weather, and you’ll be informed in advance. The penguin parade is outdoors, so check the forecast and prepare accordingly.

This tour strikes a balance between scenic, wildlife, and historic experiences, making it a solid choice for visitors to Melbourne wanting to maximize their day with a mix of nature and nostalgia.