Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, Australia

Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure

Outty Ranking 56 5.0 · 12 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $1,151
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Outty Ranking

56/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 12 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure worth booking?

Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure is a 9-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $1,151 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 12 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
56 / 100
Rating
5/5 (12)
Duration
9 hours
From
$1,151 per person

This is an island you must see! Nature Lovers paradise of a private tour. Come touring with a passionate local guide with over 10 years of experience to show you, not only the famous little Penguins parading, but everything else that this beautiful volcanic island offers.

What you get

    About this experience

    This is an island you must see! Nature Lovers paradise of a private tour. Come touring with a passionate local guide with over 10 years of experience to show you, not only the famous little Penguins parading, but everything else that this beautiful volcanic island offers.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Bottled water
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Pads for seating at Penguin Parade
    • General admission Penguin Parade Tickets.
    • Tea and coffee

    Not included

    • Dinner
    • Lunch

    What you'll see and do

    1. Cape Woolamai Walk

      A stroll on this famous perfect beach or simply posing for photos. You will see surfers and will Ben shown other special landmarks seen nearby

      30 minutes here

    2. Koala Conservation Reserve

      We will stroll together high up in the tree top canopy to view some native (sleepy) Koalas, in their natural habitat. Protected in this serene area, they can be observed from close up, doing their thing; not much at all. A highly enjoyable experience.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Cowes Beach

      Season permitting; we shall go to the main town of Cowes for dinner before or after the Penguin Parade to make it more enjoyable and relaxing once getting back to Melbourne so late

      90 minutes here

    4. The Nobbies Centre

      This natural scenic area is stunning to say the least. We walk together along the boardwalk to see the surrounding bay and straight and try to spot Penguin chicks in their natural And man made burrows

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Penguin Parade

      The most famous nature show for the day takes us to the smallest Penguins in the world. You will be amazed at this breathtaking nightly process that is sure to impress, even if you’ve seen it before!

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Phillip Island Penguin Parade

      Penguin Parade General viewing: Upon arrival at our final stop, be taken to the best area for seeing these tiny penguins waddle back to their burrows Pickup included

    • Premium Penguin Package

      Penguins plus premium seating: Better way to view the littlest penguins in the world with 80% of all penguins arriving from this location *Subject to avail Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    cmn, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Southeast touring

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 2Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 3Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 4Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 5Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 6Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure in Melbourne, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    6 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    11 verified traveler reviews for Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    11
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    E8446XYanthonym · July 2026

    The best guide in Melbourne

    Andy is one of the best guides we have had on our trip yet. We have a family of five with three girls ages 11, 8, and 6. He tailored the trip perfectly for them, gave great facts the entire trip out and brought us to areas that are not as heavily trafficked by large tour buses. He also regularly stopped to point out wildlife along the way to our destinations. His vehicle is very nice, spacious and new. The day flew by with him and the girls are still talking about seeing the Koalas, the crazy trek around the Nobbies, the great tickets Andy secured for the penguins and dinner with Andy.

    Response from the operator: Much appreciated, thanks so much for the review!

    via Tripadvisor

    V6745HMmichaelp · December 2025

    Incredible Day with Penguins and Koalas

    Amazing! Andrew was incredible and provided an invaluable experience. Would highly recommend him and the overall experience

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your review, it’s much appreciated

    via Tripadvisor

    adrianav731 · May 2025

    Couples

    It was very unique. We got to see Koalas, wallabies, pinguins, cape barren goose, etc. all in one place. Andrew our tour guide was great, very personable, and friendly. He also has very good knowledge of everything you want to know about Australia, including this amazing city of Melbourne. Woudnerfulf services it could not be better. My husband and I recommend Andrew!.

    Response from the operator: Thank you guys it was my absolute pleasure to host you and give you the best possible tour of Melbourne and the state of Victoria. Take care and happy travels.

    via Tripadvisor

    Adriana_V · May 2025

    It was very unique. We...

    It was very unique. We got to see Koalas, wallabies, pinguins, cape barren goose, etc. all in one place. Andrew our tour guide was great, very personable, and friendly. He also has very good knowledge of everything you want to know about Australia, including this amazing city of Melbourne. Woudnerfulf services it could not be better. My husband and I defently Andrew!.

    Response from the operator: It was my pleasure to have you here. Lovely to meet you! Safe travels and enjoy yourselves

    via Viator

    768chuckm · February 2025

    5 star Guide

    We spent the whole day with Andy traveling to see the penguins at Philip Island. Andy was warm and knowledgeable from the moment he picked us up. He Loves Melbourne and being a tour guide. His Mercedes van was clean and spacious. Even before he picked us up he suggested purchasing premium tickets at the penguin parade. That one piece of information was huge as the seats made all the difference Additionally, we saw lots of koalas , kangaroos and wallabys. We use guides whenever we travel and Andy was as good as they come

    Response from the operator: Many thanks Chuck and Chris! What a day. Travel safe.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    9 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $1,151 to $2,340
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    4
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Southeast touring, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 47.1.

    See everything Southeast touring runs

    Why this scores 56

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)88
    Review evidence (18% weight)35
    Booking momentum (14% weight)26
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)63
    Local standing (8% weight)63
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.

    How much does Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure cost?

    +

    Prices start at $1,151 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Melbourne usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure take?

    +

    Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Melbourne is not rushed.

    Is Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 12 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

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    Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Melbourne can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Melbourne and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Melbourne within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Melbourne?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Melbourne experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include From Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cider & Chocolate tour, Melbourne: Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch - Gin/Beer Upgrade, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Melbourne?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Melbourne?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

    +

    Included: Private transportation; Bottled water; In-vehicle air conditioning; Pads for seating at Penguin Parade; and General admission Penguin Parade Tickets. Not included: Dinner; and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 81 listed pickup locations in and around Melbourne. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure offered in?

    +

    It is offered in Chinese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Melbourne. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

    +

    Across 12 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Phillip Island Penguins Private Adventure?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Phillip Island Penguin Parade, Premium Penguin Package. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

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