3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, operated with swim tour passengers

Introduction

If you’re heading to the Mornington Peninsula and looking for a memorable marine adventure, a 3-hour dolphin and seal sightseeing cruise might just be the perfect outing. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an experience that combines scenic beauty with incredible wildlife encounters.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals in their natural habitat — not something you get every day. The luxury boat offers comfortable seating options, from cozy inside cabins to open decks with panoramic views. Plus, the tour’s value for money includes light refreshments and photo opportunities, making it suitable for families, couples, or anyone eager for a nature-filled escape.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is primarily a sightseeing cruise, which might be disappointing if you’re hoping for guaranteed dolphin sightings or swimming experiences. Still, for those who appreciate relaxed coastal exploration with plenty of wildlife viewing, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially great for travelers who want a family-friendly outing with a good balance of comfort and adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins, seals, seabirds, and possibly gannets, with a dolphin sighting guarantee.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat is spacious, modern, and offers options to sit inside or outside, plus complimentary refreshments.
• Scenic Routes: Cruise past waterfront homes, port entry points, and national parks, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Tour Focus: Primarily a sightseeing experience, with no swimming included.
• Pricing & Value: At around $62.50 per person, it offers a well-rounded day out with wildlife viewing and scenic cruising.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off at the Esplanade in Sorrento, a charming coastal town with easy access to public transportation. The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Stop 1: Moonraker Dolphin Swims & Scenic Cruising

The main stretch of the cruise showcases the best parts of Port Phillip Bay and the Southern Mornington Peninsula. You’ll glide past untouched national parks, rugged coastlines, and the famous Port Phillip Heads — a dramatic entrance to the bay where the powerful waters of Bass Strait meet more tranquil waters.

One of the highlights is crossing The Rip, the narrow passage that’s known for its strong currents and natural beauty. As the boat moves through these waters, you’ll be close to Australian Fur Seals, which seem curious and playful, sometimes swimming close enough for a good look. The Popes Eye Marine Park is another notable stop, where seabirds, including the largest colony of Australasian Gannets, can be observed nesting and feeding.

Waterfront Homes & Coastal Views

Cruising past luxurious waterfront homes in Sorrento and Portsea, you’ll get a glimpse of the opulent lifestyle along the coast, paired with the rugged beauty of the coastline. Reviewers mention that the boat offers amazing photo opportunities, so bring your camera — the contrasts between calm waters and dramatic cliffs are striking.

Wildlife & Marine Life

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the reviews suggest that large groups of dolphins can be seen, sometimes swimming close to the boat, which is a highlight in itself. One reviewer, Belinda, mentioned she was lucky enough to see dolphins up close and even swam near the boat, though swimming is not part of this tour.

Seals are also a common sight, especially around the Australian Fur Seals colonies, which are often just meters away from the vessel. Birdlife like seabirds skimming the surface adds to the lively atmosphere.

Food & Refreshments

Included in the tour are light refreshments, hot drinks, and lunch, which adds to the comfort, especially during the cooler months or for those who prefer not to bring their own snacks. The reviews praise the delicious food and tapas-style offerings — a bonus that elevates this cruise beyond just wildlife watching.

End of the Tour

The cruise concludes back where it started, leaving you with a sense of calm and plenty of photos to remember your day. Since the boat is designed for comfort, you can choose to relax inside or enjoy the sea breeze on the deck.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation & Meeting Point

The tour begins at Esplanade, Sorrento, a convenient location with access to public transport or ample parking. Most travelers find the meeting point easy to reach.

Duration & Group Size

With about 3 hours on the water and a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour feels intimate enough for meaningful wildlife encounters but still lively enough to be engaging.

Cost & Value

Priced at $62.47 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the luxury boat, wildlife activities, and included refreshments. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy the coast with a reasonable budget.

Weather & Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable if notified more than 24 hours in advance. We recommend dressing in weather-appropriate clothing, especially for outdoor decks, and bringing sun protection or a jacket as needed.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviewers

Several reviews highlight the quality of the crew, with one mentioning they were “amazing” and very professional — always happy to answer questions and make sure everyone’s needs are met. Guests also appreciated the shared experience, feeling like part of a small, friendly group.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One reviewer faced issues with customer service, missing their trip due to a lack of communication. This underscores the importance of confirming bookings and staying in touch if anything changes.

The wildlife sightings and scenic views seem to make up for some minor hiccups, with many describing their trip as “exceeded expectations” and “worth every penny.”

The Sum Up

This dolphin and seal sightseeing cruise on Port Phillip Bay offers a balanced blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters. Its relaxed pace and family-friendly design make it a great way for travelers of all ages to connect with nature without strenuous activity or complex logistics.

While it’s not a guarantee of dolphin sightings, the chances of seeing dolphins up close and Australian fur seals are high enough to make it worthwhile. The inclusion of refreshments and the opportunity to capture stunning photos adds value that many travelers appreciate.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic boat trip with wildlife watching at a reasonable price, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or anyone who appreciates luxury and comfort on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for kids.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the use of a luxury purpose-built boat, wildlife activities, photo opportunities, and complimentary light refreshments including hot drinks.

Can I see dolphins on this cruise?
While sightings are not guaranteed, reviews suggest that dolphins are often seen, sometimes swimming close to the boat.

Is swimming part of this tour?
No, this specific ticket is for sightseeing only. The tour is combined with a swimming tour, but swimming is not included here.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather — layers for cooler days or sun protection for sunny days. The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable outing for most travelers.

How many people can join?
The tour has a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Esplanade in Sorrento, a central and accessible location.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, but poor weather cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a relaxed day on the water with the chance to spot some of Australia’s most charming marine creatures, this cruise offers solid value and memorable scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a family-friendly, scenic experience with wildlife opportunities and comfortable amenities.