From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour

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Experience a classic steam train ride through the Dandenong Ranges and watch the Penguin Parade with transfers and a local guide.

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Your experience

Embark on an immersive full-day journey from Melbourne featuring a nostalgic Puffing Billy steam train ride and the enchanting Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

Start your morning

Enjoy the convenience of a hotel pick-up from Melbourne CBD, where you'll board a comfortable air-conditioned coach. Your friendly local guide will brief you on the day's itinerary as you travel to the lush Dandenong Ranges, a natural escape just outside the city.

Puffing Billy steam adventure

Step aboard the historic Puffing Billy, one of the world's oldest preserved steam railways in continuous operation since 1900. The train meanders from Belgrave to Emerald, winding past towering eucalypts and tranquil fern gullies. Breathe in crisp mountain air as you relive Australia's rail heritage, learning fascinating facts about the area from your guide.

Leisure at Emerald Lake

Arriving at Emerald Lake, you’ll have time to savour the serene lakeside setting. Opt to stroll through beautiful parkland, explore the gardens or grab a snack at a local café before returning to your coach.

Scenic drive to Phillip Island

The tour continues south towards Phillip Island, renowned for its pristine beaches and exceptional wildlife. Pause at the Nobbies Lookout, where you'll encounter dramatic coastal views, rugged cliffs and Seal Rock—home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony.

The Penguin Parade

As dusk settles over the island, witness one of Australia’s best-loved wildlife spectacles: the famous Penguin Parade. Watch hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach to their burrows. Listen as your guide shares insights on how this natural show has enchanted visitors for decades and learn about the efforts to preserve both the penguins and their fragile coastal habitat.

Comfortable return

Relax on your journey back to Melbourne with stress-free transfers to your original pick-up point. Your coach is climate-controlled for comfort and your guide remains on hand to answer questions or offer tips for the remainder of your visit to Victoria.

  • Heritage train journey through the rainforest

  • Opportunities to explore local parks and lakesides

  • Evening display of local wildlife at the Penguin Parade

  • Expert guidance and commentary throughout the day

  • All transport and attraction entry included for a seamless experience

Book your From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour tickets now!

Good to know

Age suitability
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Opening times

05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm 05:00pm - 09:00pm

Know before you go

Your experience

Embark on an immersive full-day journey from Melbourne featuring a nostalgic Puffing Billy steam train ride and the enchanting Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

Start your morning

Enjoy the convenience of a hotel pick-up from Melbourne CBD, where you'll board a comfortable air-conditioned coach. Your friendly local guide will brief you on the day's itinerary as you travel to the lush Dandenong Ranges, a natural escape just outside the city.

Puffing Billy steam adventure

Step aboard the historic Puffing Billy, one of the world's oldest preserved steam railways in continuous operation since 1900. The train meanders from Belgrave to Emerald, winding past towering eucalypts and tranquil fern gullies. Breathe in crisp mountain air as you relive Australia's rail heritage, learning fascinating facts about the area from your guide.

Leisure at Emerald Lake

Arriving at Emerald Lake, you’ll have time to savour the serene lakeside setting. Opt to stroll through beautiful parkland, explore the gardens or grab a snack at a local café before returning to your coach.

Scenic drive to Phillip Island

The tour continues south towards Phillip Island, renowned for its pristine beaches and exceptional wildlife. Pause at the Nobbies Lookout, where you'll encounter dramatic coastal views, rugged cliffs and Seal Rock—home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony.

The Penguin Parade

As dusk settles over the island, witness one of Australia’s best-loved wildlife spectacles: the famous Penguin Parade. Watch hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle across the beach to their burrows. Listen as your guide shares insights on how this natural show has enchanted visitors for decades and learn about the efforts to preserve both the penguins and their fragile coastal habitat.

Comfortable return

Relax on your journey back to Melbourne with stress-free transfers to your original pick-up point. Your coach is climate-controlled for comfort and your guide remains on hand to answer questions or offer tips for the remainder of your visit to Victoria.

  • Heritage train journey through the rainforest

  • Opportunities to explore local parks and lakesides

  • Evening display of local wildlife at the Penguin Parade

  • Expert guidance and commentary throughout the day

  • All transport and attraction entry included for a seamless experience

Book your From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour tickets now!

Visitor guidelines
  • Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before departure

  • Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes

  • Photography is not allowed during the Penguin Parade

  • Bring a water bottle and small daypack for personal items

  • Lunch is not included—meals available for purchase during tour breaks

Frequently asked

How long does the tour last?

The full-day experience lasts approximately 11 hours from pick-up to drop-off.

Is lunch provided on the tour?

Lunch is not included, but there are breaks to purchase food at your own expense.

Can I take photos during the Penguin Parade?

Photography is not permitted during the Penguin Parade to protect the penguins.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with mobility challenges.

Where does the tour depart from?

Pick-up is from the Hotel Windsor in Melbourne CBD. Meeting details are provided before departure.

Where you'll be

111 Spring St, Melbourne

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