Situated on the picturesque eastern seaboard of Tasmania, Bicheno is a captivating coastal town famous for its unspoiled beaches, delicious seafood, and the star attraction –
the Bicheno Penguin Tours, an ideal activity for the entire family.
About Bicheno Penguin Tours
Bicheno Penguin Tours was established in 1992 by Paul Male and Nic Wardlaw. Their intention was to create a unique experience that allows visitors to deeply appreciate the area’s natural beauty while fostering a deeper comprehension and regard for the local wildlife.
During the early 1990s, the Bicheno penguin colony was seriously endangered due to frequent attacks by dogs. This was due to a lack of understanding of the harm that unchecked pets can inflict on indigenous wildlife. Bicheno Penguin Tours, over the years, has taken on a vital responsibility of protecting the penguin colony by observing their movement relentlessly and intervening at any dangers to their health.
Experience a Different Penguin Tour
Take a penguin tour which offers the safest and most responsible way to observe these incredible creatures. The rookery was established on rehabilitated farmland, which allowed us to create well-lit pathways in a penguin-friendly colour spectrum prior to the penguins’ arrival.
This makes walking in the dark both easy and safe for both visitors and penguins alike.
While on the tour, the expert guides will offer you extensive insights on the little penguins and their distinct actions within their native environment. Bicheno Penguin Tours take great care to ensure that their tours are educational, enjoyable, and respectful of the penguins and the penguin’s environment.
This penguin tour will take approximately an hour. In this kind of tour, you are required to wear enclosed and comfortable shoes without prominent heels. The tour takes place entirely outdoors so they recommend wearing warm, comfortable clothing, and during the cooler months, bringing a weatherproof jacket is advisable.
When to See the Penguins
Are you excited to see the penguins? Find out when it is the best time of the year to see these creatures.
Summer Season
During breeding season, the penguins are very busy preparing for their offspring. The male penguins are especially busy during this time, as they take on the important task of building burrows to protect their growing families. They work tirelessly to create a safe and cosy home that meets the expectations of their mates and their offspring.
From September to January, tours depart from 7:30pm to 9:10pm.
Winter Season
During the Winter Season, penguins are focused on maintaining their burrows, building better nests, and taking a break from the constant stress of being in the ocean. This season is generally quieter for both our penguins and guests, providing a unique opportunity for a more customised experience in the penguin rookery. It’s worth noting that February is typically the moulting season for our penguins, during which they stay home.
From February + April to August, the tours depart from 5:00pm to 7:30pm. Low Season
During the month of March, the penguins are splitting their time between the rookery and the sea, as they recover from the task of raising their young. This period typically sees smaller groups of penguins in the rookery, creating a more intimate and peaceful environment for visitors to experience. It’s a wonderful time to witness the daily routines of these fascinating birds and gain an appreciation for their resilience and hard work.
The tour departs at 7:45pm
.
