If you’re seeking a slice of nature’s magic amidst the urban hustle of Melbourne, I have got a treat for you. Picture this: adorable little penguins, nature’s tuxedoed darlings, embarking on a nightly parade that’s bound to tug at your heartstrings. Welcome to the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour – where the stars of the show are as cute as a button and as wild as the ocean! When I was in Melbourne last November, one of the things that left a deep impression is the experience watching Penguin Parade in Phillip Island. Phillip Island is an island found at the southeast of Melbourne and it is most well known in the world for its Penguin Parade – which little penguins come ashore after a day out of fishing. Every year, close to 3.5 million people visit Phillip Island.
- Watching the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Exclusive Front-Row Experiences
- Penguin Parade Tips
- FAQs on Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- What is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade?
- When does the Penguin Parade occur?
- Can I take photos during the Penguin Parade?
- How do I get to Phillip Island from Melbourne?
- Are there guided tours available?
- What is The Nobbies Centre?
- Can I visit the Penguin Parade year-round?
- Are the penguins endangered?
- What should I wear to the Penguin Parade?
- Can I bring my kids to the Penguin Parade?
- Getting to Phillip Island
- Conclusion
Do you know the smallest penguins in the world can be found in Australia?
Watching the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Our itinerary in Phillip Island was just to watch the Penguin Parade so we did not actually explore the other attractions such as Antarctic Journey, Churchill Island & Wild Ocean Eco Boat Tours. When we reached, we were ushered to a theatre where we were shown some videos on Phillip Island and the Penguin Parade for some background information. The Phillip Island Visitor Information Centre dishes out all you need to know about the penguin parade. Here, you can get your tickets, soak in the fascinating wildlife exhibits, and gear up for an adventure that’ll warm your heart.
We took a short stroll down the boardwalks across the little penguins colonies and into the viewing area just in front of the beach. There were already so many people in the viewing area and the weather was so cold! We were all shivering.
The Penguin Parade has a strict photography policy so be sure to comply. There is absolutely no photography and filmography allowed during the parade.
- Penguin has sensitive eyes. Any bright flash or light from cameras can frighten them.
- If the penguins are frightened, they may not come back to this special man-made colonies area anymore.
We waited for around 40 minutes and when the sun begins to set, we started to spot little black dots appearing in the waters near the shores. As expected, those are little penguins!! Finally they are returning home to their colonies! A hush falls over the crowd as the penguins strut their stuff. Along the boardwalks, strategic observation points offer prime viewing. Fear not – the resident rangers are your penguin-loving guides, ready to dish out fascinating tidbits and answer your burning questions.
At the start, these little penguins are a bit paranoid and suspicious of the surrounding.. so they keep coming forward and then retreating… and after multiple attempts, one group of brave little penguins finally plucked out the courage and advances to the shore, across the viewing area to their colonies. Well, that’s the basic instinct to keep a look out for their predators – sea gulls and eagles.
As the parade unfolds, it’s not just a display of cuteness overload – it’s an education in conservation. The rangers share tales of the challenges these little wonders face and the heroic efforts taken to shield them from harm. Your heart will swell with admiration for the champions of wildlife.
One by one, the other groups of penguins begin to follow suit. Groups of little penguins move up the shore and into their colonies. In fact, I was wondering if those penguins actually know that we were monitoring them. How in the first place did they determine which colonies was whose among themselves in the first place… There are so many of them! First come first serve?
Exclusive Front-Row Experiences
If you want to elevate your experiences, you can consider booking a guided ranger tour or opt for a premium viewing spot. Experience the magic up close and personal, all while ensuring our little tuxedoed friends remain undisturbed. For us, we didn’t opt for a tour so we did not get to experience the premium viewing spot.
Penguin Parade Tips
- Remember, no photography allowed!
- Wear warm clothes as it get colder when night falls. Even in the Aussie summer, the evenings can be a tad nippy. So, pack in those layers to stay cozy.
- Bring your umbrella or ponchos (raincoats) to prepare for bad weather.
- Arrive an hour before the parade starts to nab the primo spots.
- Move to the boardwalks after the penguins come out from waters into the shores. Those are the best viewing places!
FAQs on Phillip Island Penguin Parade
What is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade?
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a natural phenomenon where groups of little penguins return from the sea to their burrows on the island’s shores every evening.
When does the Penguin Parade occur?
The timing of the Penguin Parade varies throughout the year, as it’s influenced by sunset. It’s best to check the official website for the most up-to-date timings before your visit.
Can I take photos during the Penguin Parade?
No, photography is prohibited during the parade to ensure the penguins’ safety and minimize disturbances. You can purchase professional photos taken by park photographers to remember the experience.
How do I get to Phillip Island from Melbourne?
The most common way is by car, which takes about two hours. You can also opt for organized tours that include transportation, making the journey more convenient.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes, you can choose from a variety of guided tours that offer different levels of access and interaction with the penguins. Some tours include ranger-guided experiences and premium viewing options.
What is The Nobbies Centre?
The Nobbies Centre is a visitor attraction on Phillip Island that offers stunning coastal views, seal-watching opportunities, interactive exhibits, and a chance to learn more about the island’s marine life.
Can I visit the Penguin Parade year-round?
Yes, the Penguin Parade operates year-round, but keep in mind that timings and penguin numbers might vary depending on the season.
Are the penguins endangered?
While the little penguins at Phillip Island are not classified as endangered, they still face challenges due to habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts are in place to protect them.
What should I wear to the Penguin Parade?
Even in the warmer months, evenings on the island can get chilly, so it’s a good idea to dress warmly. Layering is key to staying comfortable.
Can I bring my kids to the Penguin Parade?
Absolutely! The Penguin Parade is a family-friendly activity that appeals to all ages. It’s an educational and heartwarming experience that children will adore.
Getting to Phillip Island
Phillip Island can be easily accessible by car. The journey is just around 90 minutes from Melbourne and 20 minutes from bridge to Phillip Island. For us, we chartered a mini bus as we have 8 people. Alternatively, you can also find alot of day tours to Phillip Island in hotels lobby etc.
Conclusion
Next time you’re in Melbourne, make a beeline for Phillip Island and let the penguin parade unfurl its magic before your very eyes. It’s a tale of nature’s symphony you’ll be sharing around campfires for years to come. Happy
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