Gray line Penguins 'n' Puff

Take a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenong’s, see the adorable penguins at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade, as well as a visit to a koala conservation centre and Warook Farm.

You’ll depart on your adventure from Federation Square East – on the corner of Flinders and Russell Streets, Melbourne – at 8.10 am and accommodation pickups are available on request. This exciting day offers two very unique primary attractions in the one tour and they are both are as delightful as each other. You will start your tour by travel through the picturesque and pristine Dandenong Ranges National Park, immersing yourself in the towering forest canopy of tall eucalypts, including the Mountain Ash – the world’s tallest flowering plant. Listen for the melodic sounds of the lyrebird, crimson rosellas, king parrots, kookaburras and bellbirds that call this beautiful lush green region home.

Wave at the locals as you take an enchanting ride on the quaint old steam train, Puffing Billy, as it twists and winds its way down through some charming little villages and picturesque countryside. Experience the feeling of years gone by as the train’s whistle echoes through the gorgeous surrounds and the steam billows from the engine room. Then you’re off to visit the heart of the Dandenongs – the exquisite Sherbrooke Forest. Handfeed some of the cheeky, colourful birds that pop along to say hello at the Grants Picnic Ground.

Enjoy a refreshing, traditional Aussie style Bush Billy morning tea and sample some of the famous Australian lamingtons, or maybe Vegemite and crackers washed down with a delicious tea or coffee. Fully rejuvenated, you spend some quality time in the beautiful mountain village of Sassafras, which is renowned for its wonderful local crafts and antiques.

After a spectacular morning, you’ll be ready for an equally exciting afternoon, as you re-join your coach and travel through the quaint fishing village of San Remo, then off over the bridge to explore the rugged beauty of Phillip Island. Visit Warook Homestead where you can explore the farm and get up close to kangaroos and other Australian Wildlife.

Stroll on the purpose built treetop boardwalk at the Koala Conservation Centre for a bit of koala spotting. See these cute, cuddly, wet nosed marsupials – all with the gentle smile of the contented – in a protected environment.

Stop by the Nobbies Centre to view the Blowhole and Seal Rocks. where you may be lucky to spot some of the resident seals frolicking on the the rocks, or in the water. After our stop here, we'll head to the town of Cowes, where you can purchase dinner, before heading the to the Penguin Parade.

Just when you think it can’t get any better, it does! During every sunset, the world’s largest Little Penguin colony comes ashore through the raging surf, after a hard day foraging in the fish rich waters of this spectacular piece of the planet. Watch them waddle, jump and skip up the beach to re-join and feed their ever-hungry family. During this nightly ritual, these flightless little birds will enthrall you as you observe them from the pristine floodlit Summerland beach. Pure magic.

You’ll arrive back in Melbourne at 11.30 pm in the summer months and 9 pm in the winter months, where you’ll be dropped off at your original pickup location.