About Us
Your not the average traveller and we're not the average tour company
Small group tours and sightseeing around Phillip island, the Bass Coast and West Gippsland is our specialty. we provide boutique tours departing from Melbourne and from Phillip island.
Locally owned and operated
Our tours and activities suit independent travellers wanting to get off the beaten track and experience the area the way the locals do, away from the crowds. Our tours are built on a philosophy of education via enjoyable experiences".
Who We Are
Exceptional Phillip Island Area Tours was founded in 2014 by Kirsty and David Mawer and was quickly recognised for the exceptional experiences it offers.
In July 2018 Dianne Ray a local Phillip island resident, who owns Dianne's Venture Tours on Phillip Island purchased Exceptional Phillip Island Area Tours, as an add onto her Phillip Island tour business.
Exceptional Phillip island Area Tours provides visitors with a "local's insight" into the Bass Coast area.
Building on the founder's vision and our tour packages, Dianne applies her talents to find out what guests enjoy when travelling and she incorporates this learning into every tour.
Dianne has a passion for Phillip island and likes nothing more than to share her knowledge and insights with visitors, while surprising them with hidden gems and visits to spectacular out-of-the-way and off -the-beaten-track places.
Proud Partners
Exceptional Phillip Island Area Tours has teamed up with some of the best, and in some cases both unique and hidden attractions in the Phillip island area to provide and exceptional experience for visitors and locals alike. they specialise in small group tours hosted by local guides and they offer both scheduled and private tours for the thinking traveller.
"We are extremely proud and appreciative of our guest relationships with businesses across the region. these enable us to deliver a range of unique experiences. Experiences you could not get as a self-drive visitor walking in off the street.
About the Owner
Dianne Ray
General Manager/Director
Dianne has been involved in the travel, tourism, education, property, hospitality and lifestyle industries for over 30 years. Being involved in the boutique accommodation industry over the last 15 years, this developed an interest in tourism. Dianne established in late 2014 a small personal tour business on Phillip Island, called Dianne’s Venture Tours – Phillip Island and in 2018 purchased Exceptional Phillip Island Area Tours. Both businesses are operating under the banner of Phillip Island Boutique Tours. Dianne has a strong passion in meeting people and loves finding out their individual stories and enjoys delivering amazing experiences for people. A lover of sport, nature, travel, photography, food and wine and meeting people. Dianne believes in providing a unique experience and professional customer service and these are central to lasting memories and experiences to our customers.