Sorrento Victoria offers a fantastic variety of tours and experiences that highlight its natural beauty, wildlife, and local flavors. Whether you’re interested in getting up close with adorable Australian fur seals, exploring breathtaking coastal scenery, enjoying luxury hot springs, or sampling world-class wines, Sorrento has a lot to offer. Many travelers love the chance to combine active outings like snorkeling or kayaking with relaxing pursuits such as hot springs or wine tastings. For example, a snorkel trip with seals (see details here) allows you to encounter native wildlife in their natural habitat, while the Mornington Peninsula wine tour offers a taste of local craftsmanship in a scenic setting.
What makes Sorrento truly special is the diversity of options—no matter your interests or travel style, you’re likely to find a memorable experience. Our top picks include everything from intimate private tours to lively wildlife cruises. Read on for a detailed breakdown of each experience and find the best fit for your trip.
- 1. Sorrento: Boat Tour & Snorkeling with the Seals with Lunch
- 2. Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula: Wildlife & Sightseeing Cruise
- 3. Mornington Peninsula Private Day Tour
- 4. Peninsula Hot Springs: Private Sanctuary and Bathing
- 5. Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula Waterbike Tour
- 6. Mornington Peninsula: Transfers, Food and Wine Tour
- How to Choose Your Perfect Sorrento Experience
- Final Thoughts
1. Sorrento: Boat Tour & Snorkeling with the Seals with Lunch
At number 1, this 2-hour cruise combines wildlife encounters with stunning scenery. The highlight is snorkeling with Australian fur seals in their natural environment around Chinaman’s Hat in Port Phillip Bay. The tour guides share fun facts about these playful creatures, making it both educational and entertaining.
After the swim, you’ll enjoy a lunch, snacks, and drinks while taking in panoramic views of the coastline. The trip is rated 4.8/5 with 18 reviews, emphasizing the friendly guides and the chance to capture remarkable photos. The small group size and focus on wildlife make this tour ideal for families, couples, or anyone eager to experience marine life firsthand. Value-wise, $86 per person covers the snorkeling gear, guided tour, and a quality lunch—an excellent deal for such a unique experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife lovers and snorkelers seeking an active, scenic outing with plenty of photo opportunities and an easygoing vibe.
2. Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula: Wildlife & Sightseeing Cruise
At number 2, this 1.5-hour cruise takes you from Sorrento to Portsea, showcasing the best of Southern Port Phillip Bay. The boat is purpose-built for comfort, and you’ll likely see bottlenose dolphins and seals in their natural habitat while cruising past the rugged coastline.
The onboard cafe offers tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and chilled water, making it a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery. Guides share interesting facts about local wildlife and landmarks, adding depth to the experience. While rated 4.2/5 with 32 reviews, most travelers appreciate the chance to see dolphins and the stunning coastal views.
This cruise suits those who prefer a shorter, leisurely outing that combines wildlife viewing with sightseeing of cliffs and mansions along the coast. It’s a great choice if you want a quick but memorable tour that balances wildlife and scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back cruise with wildlife sightings and impressive coastal vistas.
3. Mornington Peninsula Private Day Tour
At number 3, this 9-hour private tour offers a personalized adventure through the scenic Mornington Peninsula. Perfect for small groups of up to seven people, it covers landmarks like Cape Schanck and the London Bridge sandstone formation.
The tour starts with a lighthouse walk at Cape Schanck, followed by exploring Sorrento’s historic town and beaches dotted with colorful bathing boxes. Then, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive into the hinterland to reach the tallest peak for spectacular views over the peninsula. The itinerary is flexible, allowing for a relaxed pace tailored to your interests.
Rated 5/5 with only 2 reviews, this private experience is praised for its intimate setting and knowledgeable guides. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to avoid large groups and enjoy in-depth sightseeing, beach walks, and scenic drives. The tour includes pickup from Melbourne and covers a lot in one day, making it particularly appealing for those with limited time but high expectations.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a custom, immersive day exploring the rugged coast and scenic hinterland of Mornington.
4. Peninsula Hot Springs: Private Sanctuary and Bathing
This full-day experience centers on relaxation, offering exclusive access to the Peninsula Hot Springs. The highlight is a 45-minute private bath in your own sanctuary, perfect for unwinding after days of sightseeing.
The spa features the Bath House and Spa Dreaming Center, where you can wander through thermal mineral pools, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. You may choose from a selection of essential oils to enhance your experience, and the tranquil setting makes it ideal for couples or anyone needing a break from active touring.
Rated 3.6/5 with 7 reviews, some travelers find the private bath and spa treatments worth the splurge, although others note that the overall experience can vary. It’s best for those seeking a restorative day in a peaceful environment, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or friends who enjoy wellness retreats.
Bottom line: For a day of pure relaxation and pampering, this experience offers a luxurious escape from busy itineraries.
5. Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula Waterbike Tour
Number 5 on our list is a 1.5-hour waterbike tour along the coast, starting from Sorrento. This guided trip is perfect for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise. You’ll explore the Point King, Shelley Beaches, and the famous Millionaire’s Walk, all while pedaling a sturdy waterbike.
The tour guarantees panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and the possibility of a dolphin encounter—a real treat if you’re lucky. The experience caters to a range of fitness levels, making it accessible for most. Although specific reviews are not included, waterbiking is gaining popularity for its combination of adventure and scenery.
This tour is ideal for those who love outdoor activity and want to see the coast from a different perspective. It’s also a sociable and fun alternative to more traditional sightseeing options.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to explore the coastline in a hands-on way with the chance to see dolphins.
6. Mornington Peninsula: Transfers, Food and Wine Tour
Rounding out our list at number 6 is an 8-hour wine and food tour that dives into the region’s famed wineries and culinary traditions. Starting from Mornington, you’ll visit exclusive cellar doors, including Trofeo Estate, and sample wines made with 6,000-year-old amphora techniques at a historic dairy.
The tour also features the Green Olive Estate with farm-fresh, gourmet platters and a visit to Australia’s only pickleball court at a working vineyard. These unique stops make this experience stand out among wine tours. The focus on local, artisanal produce appeals to foodies and wine lovers alike.
While reviews are not specified, the curated nature of this tour and access to exclusive venues suggest great value, especially for those eager to combine wine, food, and culture in one day. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a relaxed, indulgent experience with a touch of local history.
Bottom line: Best suited for wine enthusiasts and food lovers looking for an upscale, authentic tasting adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sorrento Experience
To decide between these options, consider your main interests and how much time you want to dedicate. If wildlife and snorkeling are your priorities, the Boat Tour & Snorkeling with Seals (see details here) offers an up-close wildlife encounter. For those who prefer a relaxed, scenic cruise, the Wildlife & Sightseeing Cruise (see details here) is a great choice.
Want a more in-depth exploration? The Private Day Tour (see details here) provides personalized sightseeing, while the Wine and Food Tour (see details here) appeals to culinary enthusiasts. For pure relaxation, the Peninsula Hot Springs offers a restorative day, perfect after busy sightseeing.
Always consider your budget, fitness level, and whether you prefer active or leisurely experiences. Booking early is wise, especially for private tours and popular wildlife cruises.
Final Thoughts
From wildlife cruises and snorkel adventures to private wine tastings and relaxing hot springs, Sorrento Victoria offers a diverse array of tours tailored to different tastes. If you’re seeking a close encounter with seals and scenic coastal views, the Boat Tour & Snorkeling with Seals is hard to beat. For a luxurious day of pampering, the Peninsula Hot Springs will not disappoint. Small groups and personalized options like the Mornington Peninsula Private Day Tour provide a more intimate way to explore.
No matter which you choose, these experiences showcase the best of Sorrento’s natural beauty and local charm. Remember to book early, especially for popular tours, so you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures. Happy exploring!