Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

About this tour

This 11-hour loop from Melbourne takes you through the Dandenong Ranges and out to Phillip Island. You'll ride the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train from Emerald Lake to Belgrave, stop at The Nobbies clifftop lookout, then head to Phillip Island Wildlife Park for the evening penguin parade—when little penguins return from the ocean to their burrows at dusk. Air-conditioned coach throughout, with a guide leading the way.

Highlights

• Steam train journey through forested hills to Belgrave station
• Emerald Lake walk in the Dandenong Ranges
• The Nobbies coastal viewpoint overlooking Bass Strait
• Phillip Island Wildlife Park exploration before dark
• Watch wild penguins wade ashore at sunset

What to expect

You'll start with a pick-up from central Melbourne in a comfortable coach. The morning centres on Emerald Lake, where you can stretch your legs and grab lunch from local vendors before boarding Puffing Billy. The heritage steam train chugs through mountain scenery for roughly an hour. After Belgrave, it's back in the coach for a scenic drive to The Nobbies, a dramatic clifftop spot with wide ocean views. Late afternoon brings you to Phillip Island Wildlife Park—time to explore and buy dinner. As light fades, thousands of little penguins return from fishing, waddling across the beach into their burrows. It's a natural spectacle best watched from the amphitheatre seating provided.

Good to know

Bring cash or card for meals at each stop—nothing's included. Wear layers; coastal wind can pick up at dusk. Prams work fine at most stops. Children aged 15 and under need child tickets. During busy seasons, larger coaches may replace standard vehicles.