About this tour
A private eight-hour excursion departing from Melbourne's cruise port, taking a small group of up to seven to Healesville Sanctuary to encounter native Australian wildlife in open-range settings. You'll spot koalas, kangaroos and wombats before returning via the Yarra Valley wine region. The return journey includes stops at Melbourne's Parliament House, laneways and arcades, offering a mix of natural and urban discovery.
Highlights
- Walk among koalas, kangaroos and wombats in naturalistic habitats
- Drive through Yarra Valley vineyard landscapes en route back
- See Parliament House and historic Treasury Building architecture
- Browse street art and independent shops in CBD laneways
- Stop at Block Arcade and Royal Arcade heritage shopping precincts
- Optional visits to Queen Victoria and South Melbourne markets
What to expect
Your guide collects you from the cruise terminal in an air-conditioned minivan and heads inland to Healesville Sanctuary. Expect 1.5–2 hours observing Australian fauna at close quarters in large, semi-natural enclosures. The animals are active early morning and late afternoon, so timing matters. On the return leg, you'll motor through rolling vineyard country (Yarra Valley), then spend time in central Melbourne exploring Victorian arcades, heritage buildings and street-art-lined laneways. Walking distances are moderate; wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat.
Good to know
Sanctuary entry (roughly AU$53 per person) is not included and must be paid separately. Lunch is your responsibility; consider grabbing food at the markets if time allows. Dress for weather changes—the sanctuary is exposed. Prams are welcome. Minimum fitness level required is moderate. Refunds won't apply if your ship runs late.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original AU & NZ Travel summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.