Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne

About this tour

Combine two iconic Victorian experiences in a single day: a morning steam-train journey through the Dandenong Ranges aboard Puffing Billy, then an afternoon trip to Phillip Island to watch little penguins return to shore at dusk. The route crosses the historic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge with views of fern gullies and mountain ash. After the train, you'll have free time in central [Melbourne](/places/melbourne) before heading south to the Nobbies clifftop boardwalk and the Penguin Parade. Tour runs 14–17 hours with hotel pickup and small-group guides.

Highlights

• Steam train with open-sided carriages through Dandenong Ranges
• Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge crossing and lakeside exploration
• Nobbies clifftop boardwalk and coastal views
• Little penguins waddling ashore at their burrows
• Free time in Melbourne city centre between activities
• Air-conditioned coach transport and WiFi throughout

What to expect

Start with a morning ride on Puffing Billy's heritage steam train, where open-sided carriages let you dangle your legs as the train winds through mountain ash forest. You'll stop at Emerald Lake Park for walking trails, lakeside rest, or café time. After returning to Melbourne, you have several hours to explore the city centre independently. Reconvene at the Immigration Museum for your afternoon coach journey to Phillip Island. At the Nobbies, walk the clifftop boardwalk before settling in for the Penguin Parade—as light fades, little penguins emerge from the ocean and shuffle inland to their burrows. Watch them feed and interact in their natural habitat.

Good to know

Food and drinks are not included; bring cash or use cafés at Emerald Lake and Phillip Island. Photography is prohibited during the Penguin Parade. Large bags, prams, and strollers cannot board the train. Service animals are welcome. Dress in layers—mountain air and coastal wind can be cool, especially at dusk.

Frequently asked

How long does Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne take?

Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne runs for approximately 14 hours – 17 hours.

How much does Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne cost?

Prices start from AUD $245 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.

Where does Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne run?

This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.

Who runs Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne?

The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. VIC Travel earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.

Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?

The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.