Day Tour
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Phillip Island Penguins & French Island Day Tour from Melbourne

(4 Reviews)
  • Departs from Melbourne
  • 12 hours

 

Highlights

  • Take a 4WD eco tour of remote French Island to spot wild koalas
  • Cruise Western Port Bay with scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities
  • Witness the famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island at sunset

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What to expect

Embark on a unique island-hopping adventure from Melbourne that showcases the best of French Island and Phillip Island. Begin with a scenic cruise aboard Western Port Ferries to French Island, where you’ll join a guided 4WD eco tour through pristine wilderness to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a seasonal lunch or afternoon tea sourced from local produce, before cruising onward to Phillip Island. Explore Cowes village, stroll the Nobbies Boardwalk for ocean views and seal spotting, and cap off the day with the unforgettable Penguin Parade, where little penguins return from the sea at sunset.

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers, nature seekers, and anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path coastal escape.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

★★★★★

S
Sharon

10 August 2025

A good occasion to spot Australian native wildlife and enjoy nature. Our guide was Matt, he is an amazing guy: funny and engaging!

★★★★★

J
Julio

28 June 2025

This was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. Both days were amazing! Daisy, our guide on French Island, was incredibly knowledgeable about koalas, local wildlife, and the unique ecosystem. We had a delicious homemade lunch and explored the island in a perfect off-road vehicle. We saw koalas and native animals in the wild, which was a dream come true. Darren, our driver and guide before and after, was super enthusiastic, friendly, and full of great tips, including the perfect spot to sit at the Penguin Parade (lower left!). We had an amazing view of the penguins making their way home. Both guides had great energy and took care of everything. We’re so grateful for this incredible experience, highly recommended!

What you need to know

Included in your tour

  • Ferry crossing to/from French Island
  • 4WD on French Island
  • Farm lunch or afternoon tea depending on the season
  • General entry ticket to Penguin Parade
  • Friendly and informative guide
  • Transport to/from Melbourne in a modern bus

Extra

  • Dinner is available to purchase on the day at a local venue
  • Coffee, tea or beverages are available to purchase from a local cafe.

Time and Departure Location

Below are our pickup locations;

Mercure Melbourne Southbank – 9 Riverside Quay, Southbank
Regent Theatre – 191 Collins St
Her Majesty’s Theatre – 219 Exhibition St
Mail Exchange Hotel – 688 Bourke St

Check availability to see starting times.

Important information

Not allowed

  • Oversize luggage
  • Baby strollers
  • Luggage or large bags
  • Non-folding wheelchairs
  • Non-folding strollers
  • Baby carriages
  • Electric wheelchairs

What To Bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Cancellation Policy

  • A full refund will be offered for customer-requested cancellations made up to 6 days prior to travel. Cancellations made within 5 days of travel will incur a 100% cancellation fee, including no-shows. 
  • Should supplier be required to cancel or the operation of the tour for any reason, including on the rare occasions due to inclement weather, an alternative date or itinerary will be offered to the passenger. If the alternative date or itinerary cannot be arranged or agreed upon, a full refund will be authorised. If the passenger accepts the alternative date or itinerary, no refunds will be issued.
  • Please note that credit card processing fees paid at the time of booking are non-refundable.
  • Tour itinerary may be subject to change without notice due to weather conditions or operational requirements.
  • Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
  • Mobile Vouchers are accepted! – Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
4 Reviews
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Niklas

Family Traveller

Our day trip to French and Phillip Island was a total success and we would definitely do it again. Our highlight were the koalas we spotted on French Island. They were in natural habit and absolutely adorable. The penguin parade is also worth a visit and you don’t want to miss it, when you are in the Melbourne area.

July 16, 2025

Sylvia

Couple Traveller

It was the perfect day! Spectacular wildlife experience where Australian natives were comfortably in their natural habitats and the guides made you feel so welcomed

July 10, 2025

Kristina

Group Traveller

It was a really nice day. We stopped for a lot of beautiful views. Matt, our tour guide, was super friendly and knowledgeable.

June 25, 2025

Ellie

Family Traveller

Our trip was great! Learnt so much, laughed so much and tasty food during the afternoon tea was a plus. Hunter and Craig are great at what they do! Would definitely do another tour with them.

June 12, 2025