Phillip Island, Australia

The undisputed star attraction is the world-famous Penguin Parade, where you can watch Little Penguins return to their burrows at sunset. Since this occurs in the evening, cruise lines often arrange special late departures to accommodate this must-see spectacle, which is about a 15-minute drive from the tender pier.

During the day, a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve is essential for guaranteed sightings of koalas in their natural habitat along treetop boardwalks. Another popular spot is The Nobbies Centre, offering breathtaking coastal views, a chance to see Australia's largest fur seal colony through powerful binoculars, and dramatic blowholes. For motorsport fans, a visit to the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit offers tours and go-karting experiences on a world-class track.

Just across the bridge from Phillip Island lies the charming fishing village of San Remo. Located only a 15-minute drive from Cowes, it's known for its daily pelican feeding on the foreshore and offers a lovely alternative for a quick trip off the island.

For those on a longer port call or a private tour, the greater Bass Coast region offers beautiful beaches and coastal walks. The town of Wonthaggi, about a 30-minute drive, provides insight into the area's coal mining history at the State Coal Mine.

Cruise ships visiting Phillip Island do not dock at a pier; instead, they anchor in the calm waters of Western Port Bay, just off the island's main town, Cowes. Passengers are then brought ashore via a short tender boat ride.

The tender boats conveniently arrive at the Cowes Jetty, placing you directly in the heart of the town. From the jetty, you are just steps away from the main street, Thompson Avenue, which is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. No shuttles are needed to explore Cowes, but you will require transportation to reach attractions in other parts of the island.

The official currency used on Phillip Island is the Australian Dollar (AUD). It is highly recommended to use the local currency for all transactions.

While some vendors in major tourist hubs might occasionally accept US Dollars, the exchange rate will not be favorable. Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and attractions. ATMs are readily available in the main town of Cowes for cash withdrawals.

Phillip Island is considered a very safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It is perfectly safe to explore the main town of Cowes and other tourist areas independently on foot.

The primary safety considerations are related to nature and the environment. Always keep a respectful distance from wildlife and never feed the animals. Be cautious of strong currents and riptides if swimming at surf beaches, and always swim between the flags. The Australian sun can be intense, so wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential, even on overcast days.

Phillip Island has a temperate maritime climate, meaning weather can be variable and change quickly. During the main cruise season (Australia's summer, from December to March), expect mild to warm daytime temperatures, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

It is often windy due to its location in the Bass Strait, so packing layers is highly recommended. A light waterproof jacket is also a wise choice, as rain can occur at any time of year. If you plan to attend the evening Penguin Parade, be sure to bring warm clothing, as temperatures drop significantly after sunset, even in summer.

Since cruise ships tender into the town of Cowes, the immediate area is easily walkable. However, to reach the island's famous attractions like the Penguin Parade or Koala Conservation Reserve, you will need transportation.

Options are somewhat limited for independent travelers. Taxis are available but can be scarce and should be booked in advance. A local bus service runs on the island, but its schedule may not align with cruise ship timings. For convenience, booking a cruise line's shore excursion or a pre-arranged local tour is the most reliable way to explore Phillip Island's highlights within your port day.

The main shopping hub on Phillip Island is Thompson Avenue in Cowes, located just a short walk from the tender pier. Here you'll find a variety of surf shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores.

Popular souvenirs are, unsurprisingly, penguin-themed merchandise, as well as locally made crafts and art. For a sweet treat, a visit to the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory is a must. Prices are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice. Duty-free shopping is not a feature of this small port town.