A privately-owned company formed in 1992, Bicheno Penguin Tours is a brilliant way to see fairy penguins.
While staying at Bicheno, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to marvel at these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
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Bicheno Penguin Tours Review
What to Expect on a Bicheno Penguin Tour
Starting at the Bicheno Penguin tour office in Bicheno, we jumped on board the shuttle bus at dusk for the short drive to the private penguin rookery.
As we made our way along the dimly lit boardwalk, our first stop overlooked Redbill Beach to watch the penguins’ groups disembark from the water and make their way up to the burrows.
The penguins were tentative on our tour as the moonlight shone over the beach, and even though it is not the ideal setting for these timid creatures, it did cast a glorious backdrop for our tour.
Our local guide on the Bicheno penguin tour was extremely informative and answered everyone’s questions with enthusiasm and passion.
After our patient way to watch the penguins head for their homes, we continued along the path to see penguins in the burrows. As we travelled to Tasmania in “chick raising” season, we were given a special treat of seeing two babies – one was four weeks, and another fluffy brown fur ball, huddled into its mother was only a mere 1-2 weeks old.
There were two more stops along the path to see the penguins disembark from the water in different areas. Some were quite close to the track by this time, and the guide reminds us that they can be quite curious creatures and may venture close if there are no loud noises or sudden movements.
The one hour tour passed very quickly, and before we knew it, we were returning to the bus on such a high from witnessing a magical encounter with nature.
Age Suitability
The Bicheno Penguin Tour is one of the best things to do in Tasmania for families, but something to note is depending on the time of year you visit, it can be a late night with some waiting involved if the penguins have not ventured onto the beach.
Where Does the Tour Leave From
Town Centre, Shop 1-70 Burgess Street Bicheno
How to Book the Bicheno Penguin Tour
The Bicheno Penguin Tour is one of the most popular attractions along the east coast of Tasmania. As each group has relatively small numbers (approximately 20 on our tour), I would recommend booking in advance to not miss out.
When Does the Tour Operate
Operating seven days a week (except Good Friday, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve).
Cost of the Tour
Adults $40 Children $20 (under 4 years free). Prices are subject to change, and I would suggest viewing the companies website to confirm.
Photography
As there is no photography permitted on tour, the office provides a card if you would like to request photos as a keepsake.
Tips on What to Wear
Not knowing what to expect, this was one of the questions I asked before the tour. The pathways are firm underfoot, so covered in walking shoes are suitable. Depending on the time of the year, the amount of layered clothing you bring may differ. In summer, long pants and a jumper were appropriate.
Best Time of Year to See Fairy Penguins
The Bicheno Penguin Tours website offers a seasonal calendar giving you fabulous information on how many penguins you may encounter, what time you would embark on the tour, and the penguins’ cycle.
How to Get to Bicheno
Bicheno is a small coastal town ad one of the best hubs for exploring the eastern side of Tasmania. The fairy penguin experience is only one of the brilliant things to do in Bicheno.
You May Also Like: Find a 14-day self drive itinerary for Tasmania here
Where to Stay in Bicheno
We opted to stay in this Airbnb in Bicheno as it was less expensive than other accommodation options at the time. Our host offered great insight into the attractions and dining in the area, and even though we were slightly out of town, we loved staying near Denison Beach.
Find more top Airbnb’s in the Bicheno area here!
Alternatively, if a motel, hotel, or resort is more your thing, you can opt for the Diamond Island Resort, which offers private access to the nearby beach where you may spot a penguin.
Thank you to Bicheno Penguin Tours for providing these photos when we were unable to take them.
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4 comments
I saw Bicheno in the title and just had to read this. Still remember this awesome place for its phenomenal waterhole. Our kids couldn’t get enough watching it, and we had so much fun watching them. Unfortunately, we didn’t do the penguin tour at that time as the kids were too young. But his looks like an amazing experience!
My girls also had a brilliant time at the Bicheno blowhole. We spent most of one afternoon there as it was a fantastic place to explore. The Penguin tour was fabulous and if you return to Tasmania again I would highly recommend it. :-)
i’m currently planning my family trip to Tasmania with an overnight in Bicheno to see the penguins. any recommendations on where to stay. 2 adults 1 toddler
Hi Emma, that sounds wonderful! We stayed at an Airbnb just outside of Bicheno. If you search Airbnb it is under “Beach Bungalow Bicheno” and the host is Binny. We loved our stay there as it is in walking distance to Denison Beach and Binny is a fabulous host. If you haven’t stayed in an Airbnb before, click on the Airbnb link (you’ll find it on my website) as it offers a $55 AUD credit for new members on your first booking. If you have any other questions, please send me an email. :-)