Penguin and Australian Animals Private Tour

Planning a day around Melbourne’s vibrant wildlife and stunning coastal scenery? This private tour offers an intimate and flexible way to explore some of Victoria’s most beloved spots, from penguin parades to wild beaches. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a carefully curated experience for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guide — described as kind, considerate, and passionate about Melbourne — turns a sightseeing trip into a true local experience. Second, the luxurious vehicle, with a huge sunroof, offers comfortable, panoramic views. And third, the customizable nature of the tour means it can adapt to your interests. That said, it’s a long day, so it may not suit everyone, especially very young children.

If you’re after a personalized, wildlife-focused adventure that combines charismatic Australian animals with scenic coastal highlights, this tour might be just the ticket. However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, and the timing of the penguin parade depends on booking options. Let’s explore what makes this private Melbourne experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Highly personalized: Designed as a private, customizable experience for up to 3 guests.
• Expert guide: Shows deep love and knowledge about Melbourne and its surroundings.
• Luxury transport: Comfortable vehicle with panoramic sunroof enhances sightseeing.
• Wildlife encounters: Includes visits to Moonlit Sanctuary and Phillip Island’s boardwalks.
• Flexibility: Stops can be tailored, with options like beaches, wildlife parks, and scenic walks.
• Long day: Approximately 10 hours, so good for those comfortable with full-day outings.

Why This Tour Appeals to Travelers

This private tour offers an excellent blend of wildlife, scenic coastal views, and local insights. The guide’s passion and expertise appear to be a highlight, with one reviewer calling the guide “the most knowledgeable I have met,” adding a personal touch that enhances the experience. For those who enjoy learning about Australian fauna and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots at their own pace, this is a compelling choice.

The vehicle itself is a notable feature. With a huge sunroof allowing nearly 180-degree views, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities without feeling cramped. The transportation is private, so you won’t be stuck with strangers, making it ideal for couples, small families, or friends seeking a relaxed, tailored adventure.

The tour is also quite flexible — it’s not a rigid itinerary but rather a highly customizable experience. Your guide can include surprise stops, pass by notable beach huts, and incorporate local tips, making the day feel more like discovering Melbourne with a friend than following a strict schedule.

The Detailed Itinerary

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

The journey begins with a visit to this sanctuary, which is specialized in native Australian marsupials and other iconic creatures. Here, you’re likely to see koalas, kangaroos, and perhaps even Tasmanian devils, alongside dingoes, parrots, and kookaburras. The proximity to these animals provides a rare chance to observe them close-up, making it especially appealing for wildlife enthusiasts. Admission is included, so you just get to enjoy the experience.

One reviewer praises this stop, highlighting its diversity: “The sanctuary is a great place to see native animals up close, and the variety of species kept there is impressive.” Expect about 1.5 hours to soak in the sights, sounds, and maybe even some photo ops of these Australian icons.

The Nobbies at Phillip Island

Next, the tour heads to the famous Nobbies — a rugged coastal boardwalk at Phillip Island’s southern tip. This site offers sweeping ocean views and a chance to smell the ocean breeze. You can spot Cape Barron geese, swamp wallabies, and other local fauna in their natural habitat.

This stop is about 30 minutes, and while the admission is free, it provides a relaxed, scenic break that highlights Australia’s dramatic coastline. “Walking the Nobbies boardwalk was a highlight for me,” shares a reviewer, emphasizing the unspoiled nature and fresh air.

Cape Woolamai Beach

After the coastal walk, the tour visits Cape Woolamai Beach, renowned for its wild surf and natural beauty. Expect a brief 20-minute visit to enjoy the powerful ocean, watch surfers riding the waves, or take a quick beach walk. The views here are stunning, and it’s a great spot to feel the rugged seaside atmosphere.

Admission is included, and the beach’s raw beauty contrasts nicely with the wildlife parks and coastal boardwalks. Travelers often find this stop a refreshing reminder of Australia’s untamed coast.

Cowes Beach and Local Flavors

The final stop before the evening penguin parade is Cowes Beach — a popular spot for relaxing, grabbing gelato, and browsing souvenirs. This 30-minute break combines a chance to unwind with some local treats, like ice cream or perhaps a quick walk along the shore.

Reviewers mention enjoying the relaxed vibe here, appreciating how this stop allows for a casual afternoon and a bite to eat before the evening’s main event.

The Penguin Parade at Phillip Island

The grand finale is the world-famous penguin parade. As the sun sets, you’ll head to your pre-booked viewing spot, either online or at the box office. The guide can advise on the best options for viewing, ensuring you have a good vantage point for this iconic spectacle.

Although the parade itself is a pre-set event, the experience of seeing little penguins waddle ashore after a day of adventure adds a magical touch to the day. One reviewer notes, “Watching the penguins emerge into the moonlight was unforgettable.”

After the parade, your guide will drive you back to Melbourne, with the day ending late but full of stories and photos to share.

What We Love About the Tour

Knowledgeable Guide: The guide, named Errol by one reviewer, is described as incredibly informed and passionate about Melbourne. His personal insights and friendly attitude elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Luxury Vehicle with Sunroof: The spacious, comfortable transport with panoramic views makes the journey enjoyable, especially during scenic drives and coastal stops.

Customization and Flexibility: The tour is designed to be tailored to your interests, whether that’s more wildlife, beaches, or scenic spots. This makes it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Focus on Authentic Encounters: From close-up animal interactions to scenic walks and wildlife viewing, the tour emphasizes genuine, memorable moments rather than just ticking boxes.

Considerations and Practicalities

While the experience offers significant value, there are a few things to keep in mind. The total duration of about 10 hours makes it a long day, so it might not be suitable for very young children or those with limited stamina. Since the entrance tickets are not included, you’ll want to budget extra for those, especially for places like Moonlit Sanctuary.

The group size is small and private, which is a plus for privacy and flexibility. However, booking well in advance (about 11 days ahead on average) is recommended to secure your preferred date and guide. The tour includes pickup from either your hotel or the port, removing the hassle of navigating Melbourne’s transport on your own.

Pricing and Value

At $677.15 for up to three people, the cost reflects a private, tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide and luxurious transportation. When you consider the exclusivity, personalized itinerary, and access to scenic coastal and wildlife spots, the price seems reasonable for a full day of curated discovery.

Keep in mind that entrance fees are additional, but the included stops (like Moonlit Sanctuary and beaches) already offer a variety of memorable encounters. If you value a meaningful, flexible tour led by a passionate guide, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private experience is best suited for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate personalized attention and want to explore Melbourne’s wildlife and coast without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who enjoy nature, animal encounters, and scenic drives, and are comfortable with a full day out.

Travelers who value a guide’s expert insights and a luxurious vehicle with panoramic views will find this tour especially appealing. Since it’s a private tour, it offers flexibility that can be tailored to special interests, making it a great choice for a customized Melbourne adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for young children?
It’s not recommended for young children, as the day is quite long and involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. The tour includes visits to places like Moonlit Sanctuary and beaches.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is designed as a private, customizable experience, and your guide can tailor it to your interests.

What transportation is used?
A luxurious vehicle with a huge sunroof is provided, offering comfortable, panoramic views throughout the day.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 11 days in advance to secure your preferred date and guide.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Most outdoor stops are weather-dependent, so it’s good to check the forecast and communicate with your guide if weather conditions change.

Does the tour include the penguin parade entry?
You can choose your preferred viewing option, either online or at the booking office, with guidance from your guide on the best choice.

This Penguin and Australian Animals Private Tour offers an all-encompassing look at Melbourne’s wildlife, coastal beauty, and local charm, all led by an engaging, knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, personalized day with plenty of authentic moments and scenic vistas. The combination of animal encounters, scenic walks, and the iconic penguin parade ensures a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Victoria’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a special way to explore Melbourne beyond its city streets, this tour promises an intimate and fulfilling adventure. Just remember to plan ahead regarding entrance tickets and be prepared for a full, rewarding day out.