Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Join us for an exciting adventure combining the Puffing Billy steam train with the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Ride the Puffing Billy steam train on a scenic journey through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, crossing the famous Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge. You can even dangle your legs over the open-sided carriages as you take in stunning views of fern gullies and tall mountain ash trees. At Lakeside, you’ll have time to explore the peaceful walking trails at Emerald Lake Park, relax by the lake, or grab a coffee at the café.
After some free time in Melbourne, join the afternoon tour to Phillip Island. Take in breathtaking views from the Nobbies clifftop boardwalk before the Penguin Parade begins. Watch the little penguins come ashore and waddle across the beach to their burrows. You'll see these adorable penguins in action as they feed & socialise.
This tour offers a fun and informative experience with expert guides in small groups of up to 24 guests.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photography of any kind is not permitted at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board
Your Puffing Billy tour will run in the morning. You will then have free time in Melbourne city centre before meeting for your Phillip Island Express Tour the same afternoon at the Immigration Museum
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Puffing Billy Railway
Upon arriving in Belgrave, you'll step into a piece of living history as you board the iconic Puffing Billy steam train. Dating back to the early 1900s, this world-famous heritage railway offers a unique experience with its open-sided carriages, allowing you to feel the fresh air and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
Dandenong Ranges National Park
As Puffing Billy steams through the enchanting Dandenong Ranges, you'll be treated to stunning views of lush forests, towering trees, and vibrant fern gullies. Along the way, you’ll cross the iconic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, offering breathtaking vistas of the serene landscape.
What‘s Included
Transportation by air-conditioned coach with upgraded seating
One-way journey on Puffing Billy Steam Train
Pickup from Selected Hotels
WiFi on board
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
General admission to the Penguin Parade
All Fees and Taxes
Puffing Billy half-day morning tour
Phillip Island afternoon tour
Passionate & professional live guide (English)
Food & Drink
Gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne
Pickup included
Reviews
30 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Puffing Billy train ride
344lornan,Apr 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00David from start to finish was awesome he got us to our attraction on time . He was a caregiver ensuring safety anticipating our needs and always very helpful , great conversationist a great sense of humor , our photographer, knowable about the significant places on our way to and back from Puffing Billy which was a great train ride with your feet hanging out and the scenery to die for . Don't miss this tour .
Enjoyable day with trains. Nature. Animals and the wonder of it all!
Marcia J,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Both experiences are once in a lifetime trips to enjoy! The train ride is soo much fun and just beautiful. Unique. Step back in time while viewing picturesque landscapes. And the penguin parade is a wonder of nature unlike any other. Add to that all the nature and animals you see along the way - plus a fabulous guide like Alesia - well. There really is NOT anything you can’t enjoy. Being the cameras - but they MUST go away so as to not upset the very shy penguins. Enjoy every minute! We did!!!!!
I like the tour guide.
ifeelgoodp,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I appreciated the staff's dedication to service. They provided recommendations and assistance throughout the trip, and were very punctual. They were cheerful and smiling, clearly showing their love for their work and pride in their country.
It was a nice day ! We’ve...
lilou g,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a nice day ! We’ve really enjoyed ! Thanks to Graeme for the puffing Billy tour and to Israel for Phillip Island !
Fantastic experiences and Go West Tours have brilliant guides - but a couple notes...
SeniorLions,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an absolutely fantastic experience held by Go West Tours. Our guide "Red" was a proper highlight, especially for the long drives from Melb to Phillip Island. Made it fun & had a lot of knowledge. Puffing Billy is a lot of fun & definitely recommend it if you have a few days in Melb. Just note that the actual train you take may NOT have the Puffing Billy steam engine up at front, but a more typical diesel engine. If you want to go specifically for the experience of being pulled by Puffing Billy then I would take the trip separately, arrive at the station and ask what time PB will be next departing. Personally we still had a lot of fun riding the railway through the forest, which was really interesting. The penguin parade - again is something you must experience. A few notes of preparation. You absolutely cannot take photos or videos. There's a no flash policy which is expected but that also applies to having your phone or camera out, regardless if it has a flash. So just enjoy the experience for what it is. Depending on when you go, don't expect a flood of penguins coming out of the water - you will see most near their burrows along the broadwalk, with only a handful coming out out the water. Be mentally prepared for certain tourists to ignore the rules, make a lot of noise, take photos and generally overstep their mark when it comes to this natural occurrence. For some it may be a downer. If you really want the best possible experience, purchase Penguin Plus upgrade as the general seating is pretty average, and we found better views standing up at the back along the broad walk. These are minor issues to just acknowledge before going in, and it didn't take away from the absolutely great time we had on both tours.
Fun time
Daydream11044571558,Feb 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide is very enthusiastic and fun and kind. We have encountered many wild animals. It was a fun time!
Well worth the trip....
Sharon D,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Well worth the trip. Puffing Billy was a great experience. The penguins was well worth the trip. We highly recommend.
Amazing adventure.
Toniwill32,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had so much fun. Hanging out the window on the train was fun and the entire train ride was amazing. Met some really neat people. The penguin parade was so interesting. We were able to see not only penguins but wallaby’s and different birds. Mike and Tim were both very knowledgeable and entertaining.
It was awesome experience
linahL753NX,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed the puffing Billy train. It was great to have Alisha as a guide tour. Overall, had a great experience with Alisha and go West and definitely this isn’t last time with Go West
Puffing and Penguins
Matthew H,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Long day but really worthwhile. Experienced Guides were excellent. Steam train good but Penguins undoubtedly the highlight. Amazing experience. Don’t forget to take warm clothes and or coats as it gets very cold waiting for the penguins.
Related Experiences
Operated by Go West Tours