Located just 90 minutes drive south of Melbourne is the picturesque Phillip Island. The island is well known for its charming little Penguins that arrive each night at sunset. Join this wonderful Eco Tour for a close and personal encounter with these fury little mammals, as well as discovering the other lesser known parts of the island. You will also see Koalas and Kangaroos and enjoy a great dinner.
From the city we by-pass Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs before driving through beef and dairy cattle farms, horse breeding studs and swampland. Afternoon tea will be enjoyed on route, before we skirt to Westernport to enjoy views of French Island, we cross over the bridge to Phillip Island. Have a quick distant view of Churchill Island, home to Victoria’s oldest garden and crop of wheat. On Phillip Island’s northern side, look out for masked lapwings, spoonbills, ibis, herons and black swans. Recognised as a world leader for environmental conservation, Phillip Island’s sandy and rocky shorelines team with wildlife including over 200 species of birds. Time permitting we can view the local fisherman cleaning their catch of the day whilst battling amongst the fight of gulls and pelicans. It’s now time to visit the Koala Conservation Centre. This is one of the few areas in Victoria where you can see a protected koala colony. Walk amongst the treetops in nature reserve bush land and see wild koalas within touching distance. We may spot a wild wallaby or two as well. Enjoy dinner in the township of Rhyll before proceeding with the rest of your evening.Time permitting we pass by Swan Lake, the island’s largest fresh water lake, and head to the ‘Nobbies’. From this magnificent headland, the views stretch over Mornington Peninsula and Bass Strait. One and half kilometers offshore are Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest Australian Fur Seal colony. Finally we get to the Penguin Parade, each evening at dusk Little Penguins arrive in groups on the beach after a day of fishing. Enjoy a unique behind the scenes experience with one of Phillip Island’s very own Rangers. You will also have access to the less populated boardwalks enabling you to gain close contact with the penguins without any hustle and bustle. Seeing and hearing about the penguin behaviour, and their daily routines is an amazing learning experience.