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Phillip Island Seal Cruise

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We've partnered with Wildlife Coast Cruises to bring you this spectacular 2-hour coastal cruise to visit one of Australia's largest colony of Fur Seals, at Seal Rocks off Phillip Island. Book your tickets .

Experience an up-close encounter with thousands of seals at one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. The boat drifts within meters of the seals, enabling you to witness them in their natural environment first hand. It is impossible not to be captivated by these naturally playful and inquisitive animals, as they regularly approach the boat for a closer look at you. Along the way, you’ll be enthralled by the beautiful coastline and learn all about the history of Phillip Island’s western shoreline.

• An average of 5000+ seals sighted up close
• Variety of seabirds & regular dolphin sightings
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• Warm undercover viewing
• Morning or Afternoon Tea
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• Leaving from Cowes Jetty, The Esplanade, Cowes VIC 3922
• 2.00pm, boarding 15mins prior
• Extra cruises in summer peak: 11.00am and 4.30pm (26 December to 31 January - please check availability)

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With an extensive coastline and a tropical climate, Phillip Island boasts a perfectly tranquil setting throughout the year. This is one reason that the island is home to a number of wildlife and birds.

Seal Rocks in Phillip Island have one of the largest populations of Australian fur seals. So, if you are on a holiday to Phillip Island , then make sure you take a cruise to view thousands of these amazing animals at Seal Rocks.

Phillip Island Seal Watching & Seal Rocks Cruise Tours

There is so much in store for you on your 2-hour cruise, where you will see over 5000 fur Seals swimming in the water and lazing on the beach and surrounding rocks. View the rugged coastline and get up close to these magnificent creatures living in one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals.

Your view from the boat will give you some outstanding photo opportunities. For those who want to relax, simply sit back in a comfortable seat as you drift down the coast and enjoy the scenery. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the many other animals who live around this area, including dolphins, penguins, and a huge number of sea birds.

Most tours offer complimentary morning or afternoon tea, and some offer transport to and from Melbourne . Check the individual tours for details.

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About the author

Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Phillip Island Point website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having lived in Melbourne most of his life and has visited Phillip Island many times), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

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Seal & Dolphin Boat Tours

Sea life through dolphin eyes on a fun RIB boat tour from Sorrento VIC. Book directly and save!

SEE the beauty of Nature first hand with wild seals, dolphins, seabirds and weedy seadragons on our fun 12-person adventure RIB boat. 

WaterMaarq’s personalised approach and certified guides give you the confidence! 

Departing from Sorrento Pier, around 90-minutes from Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula VIC.

Award-Winning Tours

1.5 hrs, Great for Families

Eco boat sightseeing cruise – micro group size (12max).

Escape on a fast RIB boat ride for only 12 guests. Explore the bay and coast that welcomed the first settlers in 1803 to establish the city of Melbourne. Encounter seabirds, seals, whales and dolphins.

Sorrento Pier, Sorrento VIC 3943

Wildlife watching cruise for 12x guests.

2 hrs, See More in Less Time

Seal & dolphin reef snorkel tour.

Avoid the crowds on a fast RIB boat ride and encounter wild dolphins, swim with seals and snorkel with weedy seadragons on the Great Southern Reef on tour with only 10 swimmers.

Marine Wildlife & Reef Snorkelling Tour

Award-Winning RIB Tours & Charters

Encounter Wild Dolphins & Seals

Witness australasian gannet seabirds, explore the great southern reef, sustainable tourism accredited, covid safe business certified.

 Book Today,

Tour sooner .

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Phillip Island tours

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Why a Phillip Island tour should be on your bucket list

With a variety of views and experiences in store, the dolphin-shaped Phillip Island just south of Melbourne may as well be a tourist utopia. Only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a beautiful amalgamation of adventure, wildlife, beaches, expeditions, farm life, and greenery.

Some of the most pristine beaches of Victoria. like the Cowes, Smiths and Red Rock beaches, lay nestled in this island, making a Melbourne to Phillip Island tour a perfect way to get back in touch with nature and wildlife. Read on to learn more about what you can see and do on Phillip Island.

Guide to Phillip Island tours: What you’ll find on this page

• Things to do on Phillip Island
• Booking guide to Phillip Island tours
• Phillip Island tour options
• Compare your options
• Plan your visit
• Top attractions
• Frequently asked questions

What your Melbourne to Phillip Island tour has in store for you

View Phillip Island’s biggest attractions on the map

Whether you want wildlife, illusions or simply fun, Phillip Island has an attraction for it all. Here are some of its biggest attractions:

- Seal Rocks

- Penguin Parade

- Koala Conservation Reserve

- Churchill Island

- Nobbies Centre

- Chocolate Factory

- A Maze’n Things

Guaranteed wildlife encounters on land and sea

Whether you visit one of the Nature Parks, take a guided tour or simply take a stroll down a trail, you’re certain to come across a few wild inhabitants of Phillip Island. Although the star animal of the island is the Little Penguin, you can also spot wallabies, koalas and colorful native birds almost anywhere on the island. Explore the seaside boardwalks to spot Aussie marine creatures like fur seals, orcas and whales.

Sail the waters on a Phillip Island cruise

Whether you want to start your morning or catch the sunset, you can find a cruise throughout the day at Phillip Island. Pick from a variety of options to spot dolphins, have high tea in the afternoon, or catch glimpses of migrating humpback whales. 

Indulge in water sports at the beaches

With some of Victoria’s most pristine beaches situated here, Phillip Island offers a range of waterfront activities that scratch every adventurer’s itch. Home to the National Surfing Reserve, you can find both beginner and experienced zones for surfing. You can also explore the island’s beaches through kayaking or swimming. 

Explore nature and wildlife on a walking trail

There are various walking trails available at Phillip Island depending on what you’d like to explore. Take a walk along the Nobbies and Berrys Beach to get the best coastal and beach views. Marvel at nature’s beauty as you stroll through mangroves atop rainforest boardwalks. Or pick the widely recommended Whale Discovery Trail that allows you to spot orcas, humpback and southern right whales swimming around the island. 

Enjoy a fun day out with your kids

Phillip Island isn’t just wildlife and beaches. You can also find some family-fun attractions here like A Maze’n Things and the Chocolate Factory. Enter a magical world at A Maze’n Things and spend hours having fun at their house of illusions, giant 3D maze and mini golf course. View the world’s biggest chocolate waterfall at Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. 

Your guide to understanding Phillip Island tours

Can’t decide on which Melbourne to Phillip Island tour would be best for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you make your choice. 

• Phillip Island tours come in 5 varieties. You can either get island experiences with Penguin Parade tickets, 3 Park Pass and combo tickets . Or, you can pick a half-day tour or a full-day tour from Melbourne , which usually also include return transfers . Half-day tours are usually about 8 to 10 hours . Whereas, full-day tours can be anywhere from 10 to 12+ hours , including transfers.
• The main difference between half-day and full-day tours would be in how long you’d spend at any one attraction. If you prefer to start early or like to take your time to explore , then a full-day tour that starts at 11:45am would be your better option. If you’re a fast browser , have other plans or just want to start later in the day , the 1:45pm half-day tour would be your best pick. However, starting from August , half-day tours will begin at 2:45pm .
• The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is the star attraction on the island and is included in all of your Melbourne to Phillip Island tour options . The prices start from AU$32 for general seating , which can be further upgraded based on where you’d like to view the penguins from. The Penguin Plus upgrade has a capacity of seating 250-300 people on an elevated platform and costs AU$80 . The Underground Viewing upgrade is an indoor seating area that gives you eye-level views of the penguins and has a capacity of just 70 people . This upgrade allows you to get exclusive glimpses of the penguins crawling into their burrows and costs AU$85 . If you don’t mind spending extra for better views, we suggest that you go the distance and pick the Underground upgrade to get the best views. However, these seats also tend to run out so make your bookings a few days in advance. 
• The Melbourne to Phillip Island day tour offers Standard and Premium seating instead of the Penguin Plus and Underground upgrades. While Standard seating is general seating itself, Penguin Premium seating is a special viewing platform that mimics the landscape of the island. The platform surrounds the most popular pathway followed by the penguins and is made from natural elements to allow the penguins to wander much closer than other seating areas.
• You can also find combo tickets that allow you to combine multiple experiences along with a visit to Phillip Island. Penguin Parade is also included in your combo tickets, however, they may be limited to general seating . The Brighton Beach combo from Melbourne , however, gives you all three seating options. 

What our customers are saying about Phillip Island tours

Your phillip island tour options explained.

Penguin Parade tickets

Ideal for: Budget travelers, very short on time Price range: AU$32 to AU$85

• Watch the penguins waddle back to the shore after a long day of hunting. 
• Upgrade your seats to Penguin Plus for up-close viewing and Underground Viewing for exclusive burrow shots. 

Recommended experiences:

3 Park pass

Ideal for: Mid-range budget, flexible itinerary Price range:   AU$54.50 to AU$112

• Get access to 3 Nature Parks on Phillip Island: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island. 
• Whether you have just a few hours or the whole day at your disposal, take your time to explore other wildlife at Phillip Island with this pass that gives you full-day access.

Day tours from Melbourne

Ideal for: Guided tours, long durations Price range: AU$155 to AU$210

• These all-inclusive day trips from Melbourne not only include return transfers, but also access to the Nature Parks within and an expert guide to take you around the island. 
• Get air-conditioned transfers directly from your hotel. 

Combo tickets

Ideal for: Multiple attractions, flexible durations Price range: AU$175 to AU$216

• Explore other attractions along with your Melbourne to Phillip Island tour and save a few bucks with a combo deal. 
• Take a scenic train ride on the Puffing Billy, view the colorful beach huts at Brighton Beach or enjoy a whole day of wildlife encounters with entry to Healesville Sanctuary. 

Compare your Phillip Island tour options

Plan your melbourne to phillip island tour.

Tour durations: The duration of your tour usually depends on the type of tour you pick and the inclusions in your experience. 

• Half-day tour: up to 10 hours
• Full-day tour: 10 to 12 hours
• Combo tours: up to 12 hours

Penguin Parade timings: The penguins arrive at different times throughout the year. Here’s what you can expect in each season. 

• Jul to Aug - Mating & nest building: 5:45pm to 6pm
• Sep to Oct - Egg laying & incubation: 6pm to 6:45pm (non DST) or 7:45pm (DST)
• Nov to Jan - Chick feeding: 8:15pm to 8:45pm
• Feb to Apr - Molting season: 7pm (DST) or 6pm (non DST) to 8:30pm
• May to Jun - Non-breeding winter visits: 5:15pm to 5:30pm

The summer months (Dec to Feb) is the peak tourist season at Phillip Island for the pleasantly warm weather and fewer showers . However, the attractions within the island tend to be packed with large crowds , so we suggest you start your day early . 

Off-peak seasons like spring (Sep to Nov) and autumn (Mar to May) are also great times to visit Phillip Island. The weather isn’t too cold and the crowds are comparatively lesser. The spring allows you to spot budding trees and newborns in the wild. Keep a jacket with you just in case you come across a few stray cool breezes. 

The autumn season is usually the least popular tourist season after winter , but the lesser crowds also means that you’re mostly going to have a very relaxing visit with very few other souls around. The Penguin Parade , however, tends to start quite late in the day, especially because of daylight savings . It can get quite chilly here at this time, so carry extra warm layers .

The best time to view the Penguin Parade doesn’t vary much from the best time to visit Phillip Island, however, their behaviors change throughout the year depending on their mating and raising of their young. 

Summer season (Dec to Feb) is the peak tourist season and you’ll be able to spot adult Little Penguins feeding and caring for their fledglings . However, this time also tends to be quite crowded and you’ll have to arrive at least an hour before the start of the parade to make sure you get good viewing seats. 

Spring season (Sep to Nov) and Autumn months (Mar to May) are also great times to view the penguins as the crowds are smaller and the weather isn’t too cold. Penguins lay their eggs during the spring and while the mother incubates the egg, the father hunts for food and cares for the mother. But if you want to spot some adorable penguin chicks , drop by during the autumn when they start to lose their baby feathers to gain their remarkable “Little Penguin” blue hue . But be sure to keep a jacket and some rain protection handy for sudden cool breezes and unforeseen showers .

As Phillip Island is about 142 km away from Melbourne , you’ll mostly have to resort to public transport if you don’t have your own vehicle. You can avoid the hassle of traveling back and forth from the island by simply booking a Melbourne to Phillip Island day tour . 

All the Phillip Island tours that start from Melbourne include return transfers directly from your hotel . All you need to do is add the name and address of your hotel while making the booking and an expert guide will contact you on the day of your tour. 

However, the Puffing Billy combo ticket has a designated pickup point at The Hotel Windsor on Spring Street at 10am . 

We suggest that you arrive at the lobby of your hotel or at the pickup point about 10-15 minutes before the start of your tour to avoid any delays. 

Address: Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia. Distance from Melbourne: 142 km Travel time: approx. 90 minutes

By public transport

By bus: The V/Line coach is available every 4 hours from Melbourne to Cowes on Phillip Island and includes stops at Bass, Corinella, Grantville, New Haven and San Remo.  By car: From Melbourne CBD, head towards the Monash Freeway (M1) and take the Cranbourne exit onto the South Gippsland highway (M420). Continue on M420 until you reach Bass and then turn onto the Bass Highway (B420) that leads to San Remo and further into the island. 

Parking:  You can find plenty of parking space near any of the Nature Parks or other attractions on the island. There are also paid parking facilities all over the island to allow you to park your vehicle near whichever attraction you’re visiting. 

• Watch out for wildlife on roads: Sometimes wildlife can come out onto the roads while driving. Drive slow and remain alert for signs of wildlife crossing the roads. Brake safely and avoid sudden swerves to remain in control of your vehicle. 
• Avoid agitating wildlife: Keep your distance from the island’s wildlife. Avoid trying to feed them or petting them for the safety of the wildlife and yourself. 
• Report any animal injuries: Be sure to report any animal injuries you come across. Give Wildlife Victoria a call on 0384007300. 
• No photography after sunset: The Penguin Parade strictly prohibits any flash photography after sunset. This is to ensure that the penguins aren’t startled or agitated and they continue to return to Phillip Island every year.
• Use dustbins: Phillip Island is a protected area and much efforts go into maintaining it and protecting its wildlife. Throw your trash in dustbins or take them back with you to keep the area clean.
• Stay on designated trails: Phillip Island’s lush greenery also means that you may get lost if you stray too much from designated walkways. Watch out for signs and avoid venturing too far on your own.

• Carry extra warm layers: Sudden cool breeze is common on Phillip Island, even in the summers. Always keep a jacket or scarf handy to keep yourself warm. 
• Get rain protection: You may also come across unforeseen showers so keep an umbrella or rain jacket with you.
• Arrive early to the island: The earlier you arrive, the more activities you’d be able to indulge in. 
• Spend at least an entire day: Phillip Island has much to do and even an entire weekend is probably insufficient to cover all the activities. We recommend that you set aside at least one entire day to explore Phillip Island, even if you’re short on time, for a fulfilling excursion. 
• Carry water and light snacks: Carry a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated on the many walking trails. Keep some light snacks with you as well for whenever you’re unable to find eateries nearby. 
• Wear comfortable shoes: You will have to do a lot of walking around the island so wear sneakers or walking shoes to prevent foot aches. 
• Use sun protection: Apply sunscreen and carry a hat or sunglasses to avoid any sun damage. An umbrella can keep you protected from the sun too. 

You can find a variety of restaurants and eateries at Cowes on Phillip Island. There may also be cafes available at the attractions within Phillip Island. 

Phillip Island RSL Sub Branch - Lone Pine Bistro: This veteran welfare center has a lovely little bistro that serves delicious steaks, mains and salads and also offers a senior discount. 

La Porchetta Phillip Island: This Italian restaurant is famous for its pizzas. You can choose to have a half-and-half pizza with two types of toppings or even pick something from their pasta, salads and vegan options. 

Anerie: This French restaurant is known for its gourmet flavors. Their onion soup, scotch filet steak and creme brulee are absolute must-tries!

Budget hotels: Golden Chain Quays Motel , North Pier Hotel, Bar, Bistro & Accommodation

Mid-range hotels: Phillip Island Towers , Ramada Resort by Wyndham Phillip Island , Silverwater Resort

Luxury hotels: Marlin Beachfront, Smiths Beach , Oak Tree Lodge

Top attractions to visit on Phillip Island

Penguin Parade

Highlights: Largest colony of Little Penguins in Australia Timings: Every day 4pm onward Duration: up to 4 hours

Home to one of the largest colonies of penguins in Australia, the Penguin Parade is a spectacular sight adored by all. There is a penguin viewing area that offers a 180-degree elevated view for you to enjoy the penguin getting back home.

Koala Conservation Reserve

Highlights: Koala encounters, tree-top boardwalks Timings: Every day 10am to 5pm Duration: up to 1 hour

Nestled within the natural splendor of Phillip Island lies the remarkable Koala Conservation Reserve—a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and protection of Australia's beloved koalas. Watch them go about their daily activities on a tree-top boardwalk and also spot many colorful native birds.

Churchill Island

Highlights: Centre for farming since 1800s, family fun Timings: Every day 10am to 4:30pm Duration: up to 2.5 hours

Churchill Island stands as a testament to Australia's rich heritage and offers visitors a captivating journey through time. Explore the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, a working farm that showcases traditional farming practices and offers a range of interactive experiences.

A Maze’N Things

Highlights: Award-winning theme park, adventure, family fun Timings: Every day 10am to 5pm Duration: up to 3 hours

With lots of awe-inspiring puzzles and contraptions within, A Maze’N Things offers a fun day out for all ages. Marvel at optical illusions, solve a puzzling maze, and if you’re daring, harness up for an obstacle course set 10 meters off the ground! 

Highlights: Largest chocolate fountain in the world Timings: Every day 10am to 5pm Duration: up to 3 hours

A paradise for chocolate lovers, learn about how it’s made through fun workshops, demonstrations, and games. Enjoy an unlimited supply of chocolate samples, try to lift a one-ton block of chocolate with friends, and even take back some sweets from the shop.

Nobbies Centre

Highlights: Beautiful beachfront views, accessible boardwalks Timings: Every day 10am to 4pm Duration: up to 1 hour

Escape the city and take a relaxing stroll on one of the winding boardwalks of the Nobbies Centre. Situated right next to the Penguin Parade, it gives you amazing views of the Bass Strait and the Seal Rocks. There is also a cafe in the vicinity where you can sip on some of their signature coffee and gaze out at the fur seals. 

Phillip Island Grand Prix

Highlights: World-famous grand prix circuit, go karting Timings: Every day 9am to 6pm Duration: up to 1 hour

Indulge the sports fan in you and try go karting at the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix track. Go Karts, the company that offers go karting in a 750-meter replica track of the 4.5 km Grand Prix track. Choose between individual lap times, tandem laps or even family laps for those under age. 

Grumpy’s Crazy Golf

Highlights: Mini golf course, family fun Timings: Every day 10am to 5pm Duration: up to 2 hours

This mini golf course is situated out of the sun with 18 mini golf courses under the same roof. A perfect excuse to get under some shade, this mini golf course is great fun for people of all ages. You can also book the venue for group events and private functions. 

Frequently asked questions about Melbourne to Phillip Island tours

The penguins on Phillip Island usually arrive after sunset. The flash of your camera can be quite sudden and disorienting to the penguins, which may agitate them or make them nervous about returning to the island. To ensure that the Little Penguins remain comfortable and protected, photography is strictly prohibited after sunset. 

Most Phillip Island tours cover the most popular attractions within the island, which includes Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island and Penguin Parade. If you wish to explore beyond these attractions, you may have to venture out by yourself. 

There are several walking trails on the island that you can take for absolutely no cost. There is a Whale Discovery trail along the Bass strait that can help you spot the three types of whales that live around Phillip Island. You may also head to the Nobbies Centre and take a stroll on the boardwalks and you’ll be able to spot koalas, wallabies, colorful local birds, and if you’re lucky, some penguins too.

If you have a vehicle of your own, then we suggest that you drive down to the island by yourself as this is the best and the most convenient way to get to and around Phillip Island. We suggest renting a car, if it’s in your budget. If you don’t have your own vehicle, the most convenient way to get here is to take the V/Line bus from Melbourne to Cowes. 

Phillip Island is a popular destination and bookings for tickets and accommodations usually run out a few days in advance, especially in the summer as it’s the peak tourist season. We suggest that you start planning your visit to Phillip Island at least a couple of weeks in advance to be able to get accommodation as well. 

Phillip Island has much to explore and one day is usually not sufficient time to cover everything that the island has to offer. That being said, we suggest that you at least visit the 3 Nature Parks of the island, the Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island and the Penguin Parade. You will be able to cover these 3 attractions with relative ease within one day. 

Getting around Phillip Island if you don’t have your own vehicle could be a little tricky as there is limited public transportation available within the island. South Coast bus operates a few buses on the island, but be sure to follow the schedule to ensure convenient traveling. You can also rent a bike and ride around the island at your own pace. Otherwise, we highly recommend avoiding this hassle entirely and booking a Melbourne to Phillip Island tour. They always include return transfers, usually from your hotel in Melbourne itself.

If you wish to travel to Phillip Island by train or ferry, you will unfortunately not be able to find a direct route from Melbourne. However, you can club both options and take a train from Melbourne to Stony Point and then catch a ferry from here to Cowes.

Other day trips from Melbourne

Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory

Melbourne to Yarra Valley

Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula

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SEAL AND DOLPHIN TOURS MELBOURNE

Melbourne offers a selection of seal and dolphin swim and watching tours. bluesun travel has selected what it considers to be the best operators in victoria., swim with the dolphins & fur seals.

Looking for things to do in Melbourne, then book one of our Seal and Dolphin tours Melbourne . Whether you are snorkelling or sightseeing, we have many marine adventures to offer you.

Swimming and snorkelling with seals and dolphins are thankfully highly regulated, but the boats offer professional guides and instructors to make sure you get the most out of your seal and dolphin swim. Most of our tours are conducted around the southern reaches of Port Philip Bay. This area is surrounded by the historic fishing ports of Queenscliff and Sorrento. They are world renown for their rich biodiversity and stunning marine life. 

Seal and dolphin tours are generally conducted twice a day and last 3.5 hours. Weather is always a factor as are the water conditions on each day. For that reason, tours are based on the prevailing elements and are altered to suite them accordingly.

Tours are suitable for all ages, sizes and abilities. They are perfect for couples, families, school groups, corporate bonding, social and special interest groups. 

For more information on our Seal and Dolphin  Tours Melbourne  details, call 1300 799 758 .

1300 799 758

QUEENSCLIFF DEPARTURES on boat Maureen M

FROM $165 pp

SNORKEL & SWIMMING Departure from Queenscliff twice daily

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Where to see dolphins and seals near Melbourne

The coasts close to Melbourne are teeming with friendly marine mammals

Photograph: Visit Victoria

Dolphins and seals can be found across Victoria's coastlines, and the creatures aren't shy. These cute critters are commonly spotted as close to Melbourne as Docklands , with a few intrepid dolphins even coming as far into the city as Richmond on occasion.

For your best chance of seeing a flippered friend in the wild, visit these locations during the animals' peak season. For dolphins, that's October to April, while seals' breeding season runs from October to December. 

Looking for something larger?  Here's where to see whales in Victoria.

Before you head off for a Victorian adventure, always  check the   air quality rating , check for closures on the  Parks Victoria website , and check  fire danger ratings   and fire bans for all regions you are travelling to and through. 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Where to see dolphins

Port phillip bay.

You can find dolphins throughout Port Phillip Bay , with Flipper and co even entering the Yarra River on occasion (they were spotted near Richmond in 2018). Keep your eyes peeled the next time you’re on Searoad Ferries or Port Phillip Ferries . The bay’s playful dolphins can often be spotted riding alongside the bow of the ships.

Gippsland Lakes

Gippsland is home to a rare species of dolphin only found in one other place in the world (Port Phillip Bay). Burrunan dolphins are a type of bottlenose dolphin that was only identified as a separate species in 2011. Hop on a tour boat or hang around the Lakes Entrance Foreshore or Bullocks Island to catch a glimpse of a dolphin or seal.

If you want to see dolphins from land one of your best bets is the Mornington Peninsula. Schnapper Point and Mills Beach are known dolphin spotting locations. Both are an easy walk from the centre of Mornington. Even if you don’t see dolphins, you can still grab a pic of the colourful bathing boxes at Mills Beach (Brighton eat your heart out).

Where to see seals

Phillip island.

The Phillip Island penguins aren’t the only cute animal that calls the region home. The island is also home to a healthy seal colony – the largest fur seal colony in Australia, in fact. You’ll find the seals lolling about at the aptly named Seal Rocks on Phillip Island’s southwestern tip.

Chinaman's Hat

About halfway between Sorrento and Queenscliff is an octagonal shipping marker colloquially called Chinaman’s Hat – though a better name might be seal’s paradise. The marker is almost always covered in seals sunbathing on the small structure or darting around in the surrounding waters. If you don’t have a boat of your own you can join an eco-tour. You can also see it distantly from Searoad Ferries.

Lady Julia Percy Island (Deen Maar)

Move over, Seal Rocks – we’ve found a seal volcano. Lady Julia Percy Island is Australia’s only off-shore volcano, and it sits 22 kilometres from Port Fairy. Eruptions around seven million years ago formed the island, which is now home to a massive seal colony. You can’t land on the island (it’s a nature reserve), but sea charters from Port Fairy can take you around the island’s shore.

Brighton Beach

It’s a long shot, but it’s technically possible to see leopard seals at Brighton Beach. In 2018 one was spotted sunbathing on a boat ramp at Brighton. Even though leopard seals live predominantly in the Antarctic, Victoria gets a handful of sightings every year. Should you be lucky enough to see one, keep your distance – these predators are quick even on land and have huge mouths filled with sharp teeth.  

The best places to swim in Melbourne

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Dolphin and Seal Swim Tour in Queenscliff

Highlights & inclusions, select travellers & date, what you can expect.

Melbourne Dolphin Swim Day Tour | Experience OzHow many places in the world can you swim with wild dolphins AND seals? Few, but Victoria's Queenscliff is one of them. People travel from all over the world to experience what we have on our very doorstep. Whether a planned trip, a surprise or even a gift voucher - its the ultimate way to explore Port Phillip Bay on this **dolphin and seal swim tour**. Tours last for 3.5 hours and give guests a great understanding and experience of the area's local wildlife. The cruise boat is well equipped and tours are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

This nature based tourism business offers a wide range of marine experiences. Visit the beautiful Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park and have fun in the sun with friends, family or colleagues. Cruises also offers great photo opportunities, along with boom netting, a duck board spa and roof top jumping. Wetsuit, snorkels, instruction and refreshments are all supplied.

Qualified, caring instructors are trained by Life Saving Victoria and combined with an underlying respect for the local environment, will ensure that you and your special one take away memories that will last a lifetime! (Dolphin Swim Season is from October to May each year)

What you need to know

• 3.5 hour tour suitable for all abilities and ages
• Tuition provided - no other experience necessary
• All snorkelling equipment provided (Fins, Mask, Snorkel, Wetsuit)
• Snacks and light refreshments
• Marine National Park fees
• Hot showers upon tour return
• Transfers from Melbourne (you need to make your own way to Queenscilff, approximately 1.5hrs from the Melbourne CBD)
• Highly diverse Marine National Park of Port Phillip Bay
• Swimming and snorkelling with Australian Fur Seals
• Swimming and snorkelling with dolphins
• Colourful fish and marine life
• Dolphin Swim Season is from October to May each year
• Morning tours depart at 9am and return at 12.30pm, and afternoon tours depart at 2pm and return at approximately 5.30pm. Dolphin Swim Season is from October to May each year. All tours depart from the Queenscliff Boat Harbour, approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne
• Dolphins and seals are wild animals in their own habitat. Although every effort is made, sightings every time cannot be guaranteed
• Cancellations of any booking less than 48hrs prior to departure will be charged full fare. Cancellations of group bookings less than 5 days prior to departure will be charged 50% of full fare.
• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the tour
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher

Recent reviews

A friend and I took this trip

A friend and I took this trip. Particular ly not being great swimmers were a bt nervous. But the staff were very helpful. And the activities were full on throughout and you get to do it at your own pace and will. p.s - If you dont have an underwater camera, i highly recommend hire it from them. It is worth it.

There were three adults and one child in our party on Tuesday 6 January 2015 for the afternoon trip

There were three adults and one child in our party on Tuesday 6 January 2015 for the afternoon trip. It was an excellent day, unfortunately we only saw two Dolphins but overall the experience was enjoyed by all of us. The crew were very professional and friendly and we would recommend the experience of the day being out in the Bay.

Thanks for a wonderful time looking at our beautiful bay

Thanks for a wonderful time looking at our beautiful bay. The leader of our trip was excellent, giving great explanations on how to use the equipment and thoughtfully supporting all the people in the group to make sure they were able to keep up and enjoy the experience. We did get to see the weedy sea dragon which I would not have been able to spot snorkelling on my own and also saw a lot of other wonderful marine life. I loved it. Very professional and relaxed. Thanks heaps. Christine

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Wilsons prom whale cruise - 6 hours.

• Email us at [email protected]
• Help code: D2B-BDA
• This experience is supplied by Swim with Seals and Dolphins from Queenscliff

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Sea life melbourne aquarium entry tickets, monopoly dreams experience entry pass, melbourne cruising restaurant for 3 hours including food & beverages, legoland discovery centre + sea life melbourne aquarium combo.

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of Country and their connections and continuous care for the skies, lands and waterways throughout Australia.

Seal Swim Adventure Tour

• Duration:  120 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : Queenscliff
• Product code:  SSAT

*SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ONLY*

**10% SURCHARGE ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS**

Please note: There is a $10 environmental levy included as part of the price of this tour. This levy helps us help our oceans and will be put towards any of the following programs and research through our partnership charity SOEL (Southern Ocean Environmental Link):

• Plastic recycling education programs  – funding will help us purchase more plastic recycling machinery for use within our recycling programs, facilitate our education sessions for school age children, and go toward community plastic reduction efforts.
• A Port Phillip Bay wide dolphin population study, utilising machine-based learning marine identification camera systems.
• Port Phillip Bay Seal Watch program  – mapping the movement trends of Australian Fur Seals within Port Phillip Bay Haul Out sites.
• Marine pest (Northern Pacific Seastar) eradication study utilising machine-based learning identification systems.
• An investigation into the effects of ecotourism experiences on young people’s awareness and attitude toward marine conservation.
• We will also use these funds to invest in an accessibility hoist for Queenscliff Harbour, and in doing so create the first readily available accessibility point for marine tourism within Port Phillip Bay.

Visit www.soel.org to find out more or contribute further. 

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Cruises & Boat Tours in Melbourne

Experience Melbourne from a new perspective with cruises and boat tours. Take in iconic landmarks and breathtaking views of the city as you travel across serene waters. Melbourne cruises and boat tours will take you on an adventure like no other.

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