Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, Australia

Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

Outty Ranking 76 4.5 · 432 traveler reviews11 hoursFrom $142
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Outty Ranking

76/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.5/5

Based on 432 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour worth booking?

Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour is a 11-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $142 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 432 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
76 / 100
Rating
4.5/5 (432)
Duration
11 hours
From
$142 per person

After being picked up from a convenient central Melbourne CBD location in air-conditioned comfort on this full-day tour, your first stop will be the picturesque Emerald Lake in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges where you will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch and enjoy a leisurely walk around the Lake. Then it's all aboard the world-famous Puffing Billy Steam Train. The train winds through the hills and finishes at Belgrave. Then it's off on a scenic drive to the next stop The Nobbies to take in the vista of this iconic lookout. Next it's time to visit the Phillip Island Wildlife Animal Park where you can purchase dinner before watching the adorable penguins emerge from the rolling waves and make their way home into their burrows.

What you get

    About this experience

    After being picked up from a convenient central Melbourne CBD location in air-conditioned comfort on this full-day tour, your first stop will be the picturesque Emerald Lake in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges where you will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch and enjoy a leisurely walk around the Lake. Then it's all aboard the world-famous Puffing Billy Steam Train. The train winds through the hills and finishes at Belgrave. Then it's off on a scenic drive to the next stop The Nobbies to take in the vista of this iconic lookout. Next it's time to visit the Phillip Island Wildlife Animal Park where you can purchase dinner before watching the adorable penguins emerge from the rolling waves and make their way home into their burrows.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entry to ride Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Emerald Lake)
    • Entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
    • Entry to Emerald Lake
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Guide
    • Entry to The Nobbies

    Not included

    • Bottled water

    What you'll see and do

    1. Puffing Billy and Lunch Ride Puffing Billy Emerald Lake Park to Belgrave. Enjoy this iconic steam train ride through the glorious Dandenong Ranges. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Victoria. You will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch at the picturesque Emerald Lake. Time spent here includes travel time from pick up, Puffing Billy Train ride, time for you to purchase and eat lunch and enjoy a walk around Emerald Lake.

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    2. The Nobbies

      After taking the scenic route through the Dandenong ranges you will arrive at the Nobbies Tourist Information Centre: Here you will be able to find out all you need to know about the Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rock precinct. Time spent here includes travelling to The Nobbies and time spent at the information centre

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    3. The Nobbies

      Nobbies Lookout And Boardwalk. Nobbies Lookout And Boardwalk: Take on the glorious views of the Nobbies and Seal Rock region from this spectacular lookout. Then walk the boardwalk with ocean views to the Nobbies blowhole and Seal Rock and enjoy the stunning surrounds. Time spent here is to explore the boardwalk and take in the views.

      120 minutes here

    4. Penguin Parade

      Phillip Island Penguin Parade And Dinner. In the Winter season you can purchase your dinner at Phillip Island Nature Park. In the Summer season you can purchase your dinner in the historic township of Cowes and enjoy a walk around this seaside town. After dinner you will be ready to witness the world-famous Penguin Parade. Watch the penguins emerge from the rolling waves and make their way across the sand to their burrows. Time spent here includes time to purchase and eat dinner, time to watch the Penguin Parade and travel time back to Melbourne CBD.

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

      Pickup included

    • Winter Sale

      Winter Sale Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 24 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Wine Hop And Coastal Tours

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Please note: ALL babies/toddlers/children up to age 15 must purchase a CHILD ticket.
    • During peak periods larger vehicles may be used

    Photos

    Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 2Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 3Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 4Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 5Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 6Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour in Melbourne, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 432 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    432 verified traveler reviews for Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    310
    4 star
    67
    3 star
    22
    2 star
    10
    1 star
    23
    Sort
    Anil_K · October 2026

    Very exciting

    Guide Graeme was simply fantabulous. His explanation as well as knowledge made the trip memorable. His keen eye helped us spot so many beings in their natural habitat.

    via Viator

    Inalch · October 2026

    The weather didn’t deter from a very enjoyable experience and a great guide!

    The weather was not kind , cold and very windy, but the guide Matt, was wonderful, insightful and very responsive to the situation. Train was delayed 55 mins, it was raining most of the trip but the view and experience was well worth it. The penguin parade was freezing with a very bitter wind, but the numbers and the entertainment and first hand experience was amazing. We got to see them up close as they travelled back to their burrows.

    via Tripadvisor

    Vivienne_W · October 2026

    penguin iland is very...

    penguin iland is very cold and windy. Our tour guide Simon is quite nice and humourous. Very impressive one-day trip.

    via Viator

    Travelor20 · September 2026

    Wont be disappointed

    We received close communication leading up to the day with pick up locations. The tour ran on time all day. Our guide was informative, fun and really did have the best tips. Dirk made our trip so enjoyable and was happy to answer any questions. He took great videos and photos for us and made every person feel included. Im so glad we booked this tour.

    via Tripadvisor

    Elizabeth_T · September 2026

    Excellent Great Ocean tour

    Really comprehensive tour and I enjoyed myself. Very suitable for people who wants a hassle free tour but big coverage of the Great Ocean Road. Also the tour guide is very kind and helpful.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    11 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $142 to $288
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    151
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Wine Hop And Coastal Tours, who run 19 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.4.

    See everything Wine Hop And Coastal Tours runs

    Why this scores 76

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)65
    Review evidence (18% weight)83
    Booking momentum (14% weight)80
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)23
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $142 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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour take?

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    Plan for about 11 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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 432 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    Around 151 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 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    Included: Entry to ride Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Emerald Lake); Entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade; Entry to Emerald Lake; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Guide. Not included: Bottled water. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1 listed pickup location in and around Melbourne. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in 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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    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 Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    Across 432 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour, Winter Sale. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour.

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