THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride historic steam trains through lush landscapes, meet native wildlife at Maru Zoo, and witness the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. A perfect day full of adventure and natural beauty in Australia.
Ride historic steam trains through lush landscapes, meet native wildlife at Maru Zoo, and witness the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. A perfect day full of adventure and natural beauty in Australia.
Book with Sunshine Travel Australia
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sunshine Travel Australia · Brighton, Victoria
Set in the southeastern reaches of Australia, the Puffing Billy Railway takes adventurers on a nostalgic ride through lush Rainforest and native bushland, delivering a rare blend of history and wildlife. This iconic steam train journey, running through the Dandenong Ranges, offers a window into Australia’s vintage transport heritage, with each puff of smoke and rhythmic chug echoing decades of local history. As the train winds along narrow tracks, travelers are treated to scenic views of towering trees, native birds, and the vibrant greenery of the region. Mid-ride, a delightful lunch is served aboard, making it a truly immersive experience that combines culinary pleasures with vintage charm. After disembarking, the trip continues with a visit to Maru Zoo, where visitors can get up close with native Australian animals and learn about conservation efforts. The highlight for many is the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, a world-famous spectacle that offers a front-row seat to hundreds of Little Penguins emerging from the sea at sunset, waddling ashore to their burrows. This attraction, established in 1979, is the largest penguin colony outside of Antarctica and is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Sunshine Travel Australia’s guided day trip ties these experiences seamlessly, providing a balanced adventure packed with wildlife viewing, cultural enrichment, and memorable moments. With convenient transportation from Melbourne, this tour remains a standout for those seeking to combine history, natural beauty, and iconic Australian wildlife. Whether you’re a family, solo traveler, or nature lover, this comprehensive journey promises a mix of leisure and discovery in one of Victoria's most diverse and scenic regions.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; walking involved at the zoo and island
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for kids to see wildlife and enjoy the train ride.
The parade lasts about 30-45 minutes, with optimal viewing around sunset.
Lunch is included during the train journey, with options available for different dietary needs.
Yes, souvenir shops are available at the zoo and on the island.
Most parts are accessible, but it’s best to specify when booking for any special arrangements.
You can spot kangaroos, koalas, and various bird species along the route and on the island.
The Puffing Billy Railway began operations in 1900, originally used to transport timber and passengers, now preserved as a heritage experience.
The tour promotes wildlife conservation through education and supporting local reserves, ensuring these natural habitats are protected for future generations.
Sunshine Travel Australia is a Brighton, Victoria–based tour operator offering curated day trips and short multi‑day adventures across Victoria and Western Australia. The company specialises in wildlife encounters, scenic drives and local experiences, operating itineraries that include Phillip Island, Mornington Peninsula, the Great Ocean Road and a multi‑day Western Australia circuit. Highlights in the tour program include a Steam Train + Penguin Island day that features the historic Puffing Billy Railway, lunch aboard the steam train, a visit to Maru Zoo and the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. The Penguin + Rainbow Cabin day tour combines iconic colorful beach huts, a coastal walk at Nobbies Point, a visit to Maru Zoo and the Chocolate Factory before the sunset penguin homecoming. The Mornington Peninsula + Hot Springs day tour includes stops at the Color House, panoramic views from King Arthur’s Seat and a soak at Peninsula Hot Springs. The Great Ocean Road Day Tour covers the coastal drive, beaches, koala spotting and the Twelve Apostles. A 5‑day tour of Western Australia features Rottnest Island, quokka encounters and the Pink Lake, with professional guides, accommodation and local meals included. Sunshine Travel Australia focuses on well‑planned logistics, respected local partners and memorable natural attractions. The operator serves visitors based in and visiting Melbourne, providing accessible departures from the Brighton, Victoria area and experiences designed for small groups and travellers seeking guided day trips and short escapes. Bookings include clear itineraries, experienced local guides and customer support for seamless travel arrangements and reliable communication.
Book with Sunshine Travel Australia