Phillip Island, Australia
Welcome to nature's playground off the southern coast of Victoria, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and coastal adventurers. Famous for the iconic Penguin Parade and rugged coastlines, this island offers a unique wildlife experience for passengers sailing with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Seabourn. Visitors are drawn to the incredible biodiversity, ranging from koalas to fur seals, all set against a backdrop of stunning surfing beaches. It is a quintessential stop for any Australian coastal voyage looking to combine relaxation with nature.
The absolute highlight is the Phillip Island Nature Parks, specifically the Koala Conservation Reserve where visitors can see these marsupials up close in their natural habitat. Another must-visit is The Nobbies, offering spectacular coastal views and the chance to spot the world's largest colony of Australian Fur Seals at Seal Rocks. For motorsport enthusiasts, the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is a legendary track that offers guided tours and go-karting. These attractions are all reachable within a 15 to 20-minute drive from the tender pier.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
While there is plenty to do locally, some passengers choose to visit San Remo, a charming fishing village connected by a bridge just a 20-minute drive away. Further afield, the vibrant city of Melbourne is approximately 90 minutes to two hours away by road, though this is a long journey for a short port call. Most visitors prefer to stay on the island or explore the immediate surroundings of the Gippsland coast rather than venturing too far.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
Cruise ships anchor offshore in Western Port Bay, and passengers are tendered ashore to the jetty at the township of Cowes. The tender ride typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on sea conditions. You are dropped right in the heart of the main town, where you will find immediate access to cafes, shops, and a beautiful beach. Everything in Cowes is walkable from the pier, making it a convenient base for exploration.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). While major credit cards are widely accepted at tourist sites, restaurants, and shops in Cowes, it is advisable to carry some local cash for small purchases or markets. US Dollars and Euros are generally not accepted for direct payment. ATMs are readily available along the main street near the jetty for those needing to withdraw cash.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
This is generally a very safe and family-friendly destination with low crime rates. Visitors should feel comfortable exploring Cowes independently on foot. However, when visiting coastal areas or beaches, be aware of strong currents and only swim in patrolled areas between the flags. Standard travel precautions regarding personal belongings apply, but no specific areas need to be avoided.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
The climate is temperate, but the weather can be quite changeable even during the summer cruise season. Temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but it can get windy and cooler near the coast. Layers are essential, and a windproof jacket is highly recommended for visiting exposed areas like The Nobbies. Rain can occur at any time of year, so packing a light raincoat or umbrella is wise.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
While Cowes is walkable, reaching the main wildlife attractions requires vehicular transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but can be limited during peak times, so booking a shore excursion or a shuttle bus transfer is often the most reliable option. There is a local bus service, but schedules may not align perfectly with cruise ship timings. Some visitors opt to hire bicycles to explore the local area at a leisurely pace.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
Thompson Avenue in Cowes offers a variety of boutique shops selling surf wear, Australian souvenirs, and local artisan crafts. Look for high-quality wool products, indigenous art, and locally produced treats like chocolate and honey. Prices are fixed, and bargaining is not the custom in Australia. There are no duty-free shopping facilities ashore, so major duty-free purchases should be made aboard your ship.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
Join Wine for Dudes on a fun, relaxed adventure through the Margaret River region, an area they have been cruising since 2003. You will enjoy a delicious winery lunch and tastings at three award-winning boutique wineries, plus a unique hands-on wine blending experience where you create your own concoction. The day concludes with a visit to a local micro-brewery and chocolate tastings, with complimentary pick-up and drop-off included.
Experience the best of Phillip Island on this small-group tour that combines gourmet food with dramatic coastal scenery. You will begin at Phillip Island Winery for premium tastings and a woodfired pizza feast before spotting wild wallabies and seals along The Nobbies' boardwalks. After toasting the sunset with sparkling wine, witness thousands of Little Penguins emerge from the sea at the world-famous Penguin Parade.
Set sail on a comfortable catamaran for a two-hour wildlife cruise to Seal Rocks, home to Australia's largest colony of fur seals. As you journey from Phillip Island, an onboard guide provides informative commentary while you look out for dolphins, whales, and seabirds from indoor and outdoor viewing decks. The experience includes complimentary afternoon tea with light snacks to enjoy amidst the spectacular marine environment.
Join a spectacular four-hour cruise around Phillip Island to experience beautiful coastal scenery and up-close marine wildlife viewing. You will see thousands of playful fur seals at Seal Rocks and have the chance to spot wave-riding Common Dolphins and migrating Humpback Whales. The journey also offers opportunities to look for diverse seabirds, including Little Penguins and the Shy Albatross.
Departing directly from your Phillip Island or San Remo accommodation, this expertly guided small-group tour takes you to witness the world-famous Little Penguins at sunset. You will journey through golden-hour coastal landscapes and encounter native wildlife before watching thousands of penguins waddle ashore. This experience offers premium comfort and local expertise, making it perfect for visitors seeking a stress-free evening at the Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Embark on a winter adventure sailing past the sheer cliffs of Cape Woolamai and along Phillip Island’s attractive southern coastline. This cruise offers the chance to search for migrating Humpback and Southern Right Whales, as well as feeding dolphin pods. Keep a lookout for curious seals and diverse birdlife, including the Wandering Albatross, which are regularly sighted in the area.
The iVenture Melbourne Flexi Pass offers the flexibility to choose three, five, or seven top experiences from over 15 available options, saving you up to 20% on entry fees. You can shape your own journey by visiting highlights like the Melbourne Skydeck, Melbourne Zoo, or enjoying a relaxing Yarra River cruise. Your pass also includes a digital destination guide and a self-guided multimedia walking tour to help you get the most out of the city.
Combine two iconic experiences in one full-day trip featuring a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train and a visit to the famous Penguin Parade. This stress-free package includes close-up encounters with kangaroos and koalas at a local wildlife sanctuary as well as scenic drives through beaches and rainforests. The flexible itinerary is adjusted to align perfectly with train and penguin schedules for a seamless adventure.
Discover the region your way with the Island Explorer Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus, offering unlimited access to a sightseeing loop connecting top attractions like the Chocolate Factory and Koala Conservation Centre. With regular departures and convenient stops, you can explore the Nobbies, local wineries, and beaches at your own pace without needing a car. Friendly local drivers provide helpful tips and insights throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and flexible experience.
Experience the best of Phillip Island on this small-group tour, starting with a visit to the historic Churchill Island Heritage Farm to see sheep shearing and 1872 homestead life. You will take in spectacular views from The Nobbies Lookout, where you might spot Australia's largest colony of fur seals at Seal Rock. The day concludes at the world's largest Little Penguin colony, watching the famous birds waddle from the surf to their burrows at sunset.
Join a unique, action-packed day trip to Phillip Island that combines learning to surf, exhilarating go-karting, and hand-feeding kangaroos and wallabies. You will enjoy a traditional Aussie beach barbecue complete with beach cricket before heading to the evening's main event. The tour concludes with a visit to the famous Little Penguin Parade, ensuring a fun-filled day of adventure and wildlife.
This private hire chauffeur service managed by Ibuzz International offers a personalized transport solution with experienced and caring drivers. You can expect a punctual and reliable journey tailored to your specific travel needs. The team prides itself on diligence and friendly service to ensure a smooth transfer experience.
Unlock the best of the city with the Melbourne Unlimited Pass, which allows you to explore top attractions over two or three days while saving up to 75% on entry fees. The pass covers a perfect mix of adventure and culture, ranging from stunning views at the Skydeck to wildlife encounters at Phillip Island Nature Parks. It also includes a free digital destination guide, map, and multimedia walking tour to make navigating the city effortless.
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Sailings visiting Phillip Island during the the peak season of winter are more expensive than the the low season of spring. Overall Phillip Island is fairly expensive as a port of call. Check out the chart below for the average cost per day by month.
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