Making the most of Phillip Island
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ships are not able to dock here, you will be tendered ashore.
Cowes Jetty is situated in Cowes, which is the largest town on Phillip Island. The town center is very close to the jetty—just a short walk of about 5-10 minutes. In Cowes, you'll find shops, cafes, and other amenities
Printable map to take along.
Phillip Island - nature island - situated in Western Port, is a place of natural beauty, sandy beaches, tranquil wetlands and unique wildlife experiences.
The Penguin Parade experience is sure to be the highlight of your visit. As the sun fades in the sky, the little Penguins waddle up the beach to the safety of their homes in the sand dunes. Witness this magical procession – it is a treat never forgotten.
Stroll along the Nobbies boardwalk to view the majestic rugged south coast and blowhole. See the Southern Hemisphere's second largest fur seal colony. Seal tours with Wildlife Coast Cruises are available on the luxurious 15mtr catamaran "The Kasey Lee", or NEW the Extreme Seal Rocks Eco-Tour. The Nobbies center is Australia's newest marine attraction. Explore and discover the secrets of the incredible southern marine environment including seals, sharks and dolphins via interactive displays and cameras that allow you to zoom in and out on these marine creatures.
Towering gums at the Koala Conservation center and woodlands of the Oswin Roberts Reserve provide a safe home for the island's koala population. Koalas can be viewed at the close viewing area and tree-top boardwalk at the visitor center. Or a gentle stroll can be taken through the woodlands of the Oswin Roberts Reserve.
Money
Australian Dollar
Staying connected
Plenty of cafes which offer free WiFi for customers around
Opening Hours and
Shops and services are generally open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and until lunchtime on Saturday. In cities and larger towns, many shops stay open late on Thursday or Friday evening - usually until 9pm - and all day on Saturday. Shopping malls are often open on Sundays as well.
In remote country areas, roadhouses provide all the essential services for the traveler and, on the major highways, are generally open 24 hours a day. In tourist areas, even ones well off the beaten track, tourist offices are often open every day or at least through the week plus weekend mornings; urban information centers are more likely to conform to normal shopping hours.
Tourist attractions such as museums, galleries and attended historic monuments, are often open daily, though those in rural communities may have erratic opening hours.