Private Shore Excursion with Aussie Wildlife in Melbourne

Exploring Melbourne’s Wildlife and Scenic Beauty: A Complete Review of the Private Shore Excursion

A day trip from Melbourne’s Station Pier that combines Australian wildlife, stunning vistas, and local wine sounds like a dream, and this private shore excursion from Epicurean Tours aims to deliver just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, our research and insights from past travelers paint a compelling picture of what you can expect. It’s designed for those who want a personalized experience, away from crowded tours, with a focus on authentic encounters and beautiful scenery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to get up close with native animals at the Moonlit Sanctuary is a real highlight. Second, the combination of a quality wine tasting at Merrick’s General Store with a delicious, locally sourced lunch makes this a well-rounded day for food and wine lovers. Lastly, the breathtaking panoramic views from Murrays Lookout and Dendy Street Beach promise plenty of photo-worthy moments.

One consideration worth noting is the travel time—about two hours each way—so it’s best suited for those who can handle a bit of a journey. The tour’s price, at over $1,500 for a group of six, reflects its private nature and curated experiences, making it a premium but potentially excellent value for those wanting a personalized day out. This excursion is ideal for travelers craving a mix of wildlife, scenery, and local flavors without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience—only your group participates.
• Native wildlife encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary, including feeding kangaroos and a koala encounter.
• Gourmet lunch and wine tasting at Merrick’s General Store, with local seasonal produce.
• Spectacular viewpoints from Murrays Lookout and Dendy Street Beach.
• Comfortable transportation with pickup included and a total duration of around 7 hours.
• Good for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and photo fans seeking a relaxed, authentic day trip from Melbourne.

Unpacking the Itinerary: What to Expect from Each Stop

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

The journey begins with a roughly 90-minute drive south from Station Pier, bringing you to Moonlit Sanctuary, an Australian wildlife haven. This park isn’t just a zoo; it’s a conservation effort that allows visitors to get hands-on with native animals. Past travelers appreciated the self-guided format, which gave them flexibility to explore at their own pace.

You can expect to see and feed kangaroos, a quintessential Aussie experience that often delights visitors. The koala encounter is another highlight, offering a chance to see these cuddly creatures up close—an experience many find priceless. The included admission ticket ensures smooth access, and guides will point out animals and share insights, making it educational as well as fun.

Merricks General Store and Lunch

Next, you’ll head to the Mornington Peninsula—a popular weekend getaway spot known for its beautiful beaches and vineyards. The stop at Merricks General Store offers a taste of local life, where you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring seasonal, locally-sourced produce. It’s not just about the food; the guided wine tasting of local wines from Bailleau and Elgee Park elevates the experience for wine lovers.

Travelers have described the lunch as high-quality, with some noting the charming ambiance of the store adds to the overall appeal. The pairing of good food and excellent wine provides a relaxed, authentic environment to unwind and chat about the morning’s highlights.

Murrays Lookout

Refreshed from lunch, the tour proceeds to Murrays Lookout, the highest point on the Mornington Peninsula. Expect sweeping views over Port Phillip Bay, which past guests have called “breathtaking” and “worth every minute of the drive.” The vantage point offers a chance to soak in the scenery, take photos, and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

This quick stop, lasting about 15 minutes, is perfect for snapping a few panoramic shots and experiencing the vastness of the bay, stretching out towards Melbourne’s skyline in the distance.

Dendy Street Beach and the Historic Bathing Boxes

On the return journey, only 20 minutes from Port Melbourne, you’ll find Dendy Street Beach—famous for its over 80 brightly coloured historic bathing boxes. These iconic wooden huts, standing out against the sand and sea, are a favorite for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts alike.

Past visitors have loved the opportunity to get some iconic shots with Melbourne’s skyline in the background and even dip their toes in the sand. It’s a brief but picturesque stop that perfectly caps off a day of scenic and wildlife experiences.

Transportation and Overall Value

The tour’s transportation is a private, comfortable mode, which makes a significant difference when traveling with a small group. The pickup included simplifies logistics, and the total travel time of around two hours each way ensures you won’t feel rushed or exhausted, despite the long day.

At $1,573.97 per group (up to six people), the price might seem high at first glance, but it reflects the exclusivity and tailored nature of the experience. For travelers seeking a more intimate, flexible, and immersive day—especially those who appreciate quality over quantity—this tour offers solid value.

The journey emphasizes authentic interactions—feeding kangaroos, tasting local wine, and enjoying scenic vistas—rather than just ticking boxes. The inclusion of admission tickets for each stop means fewer surprises and a smoother experience overall.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Melbourne shore excursion is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging day outside the city. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to meet native animals, wine lovers looking for tastings in a scenic setting, and anyone who appreciates stunning views and photo opportunities. The small-group, private format also makes it appealing for families, couples, or friends wanting a bespoke experience.

If you’re after a curated, authentic taste of the Mornington Peninsula’s natural beauty, this tour offers a balanced blend of wildlife, scenery, and local flavors—delivered in comfort and style.

Summary: The Real Value of This Experience

This tour offers a thoughtful combination of wildlife encounters, scenic overlooks, and local wine tasting, making it a well-rounded day trip from Melbourne. The private format means your group can set the pace and enjoy personalized attention from guides who know the area well, adding educational and insider insights to each stop.

While the drive is lengthy, the stops are carefully chosen to maximize scenic beauty and authentic experiences. The inclusion of admission tickets streamlines the day, and the lunch with wine elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The value lies in the exclusive, tailored approach for small groups—perfect if you want to avoid crowds and have a more intimate connection with this stunning region.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those looking for a mix of Aussie wildlife, beautiful scenery, and local wines, all wrapped into a manageable, enjoyable day. It’s a memorable way to see a different side of Melbourne’s surroundings, especially if you’re seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic experiences.

FAQs About the Melbourne Private Shore Excursion

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your cruise port, and the entire transportation is private, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey.

How long is the drive to and from the tour stops?
Travel time to and from Station Pier is approximately 120 minutes, split between the drive to the wildlife sanctuary and other stops.

Can we customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to discuss specific preferences with the provider, but the standard itinerary includes the four stops listed.

Are all travelers able to participate?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many needs.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Expect around 1 hour 30 minutes at Moonlit Sanctuary, 2 hours at Merricks General Store for lunch and wine tasting, 15 minutes at Murrays Lookout, and 20 minutes at Dendy Street Beach.

What is included in the price?
Your group’s admission tickets to each location, the guided wine tasting, and the private transportation are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, those with specific needs should check with the provider. The wildlife and scenic stops are family-friendly.

How early should I book?
To ensure availability, especially in peak seasons, booking at least a few weeks in advance is advisable.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it a risk-free choice for flexible travelers.

To sum it up, this private Melbourne shore excursion offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, scenic vistas, and local wine tasting in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed day outside the city, focused on genuine experiences rather than crowds or rushed schedules. For those seeking a memorable taste of the Mornington Peninsula’s natural beauty and local flavors, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories.