Private 2hr Seal swim Cruise Mornington Peninsula

A close-up encounter with Australian fur seals and dolphins in the stunning waters of Mornington Peninsula sounds like a dream, but how does this private cruise measure up in real life? While we haven’t personally joied this tour, detailed reviews and the tour outline reveal a unique blend of marine wildlife adventure, luxury comfort, and personalized exploration.

What we love about this experience is its exclusivity, offering an intimate setting away from crowds. The chance to snorkel among wild dolphins and seals, the delicious on-board meals, and the attention to detail make this stand out. The only real consideration might be the price—at over two grand per person, it’s definitely an investment.

This tour suits travelers who crave a private, luxury experience and are eager to get close to marine life in a relaxed, luxurious setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the water, this cruise has plenty to offer.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkel with Australian fur seals and possibly spot wild dolphins.
• Luxury Comfort: Spacious boat with indoor lounge, sun deck, hot showers, and on-board dining.
• Includes Gourmet Food: Lunch and afternoon tea served on board add value and comfort.
• Ideal for Confident Swimmers: Basic swimming ability is necessary to fully enjoy the activities.
• Weather-Resilient: Operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for comfort.

An In-Depth Look at the Private Seal Swim Cruise

The Mornington Peninsula offers one of Australia’s most accessible yet immersive marine experiences. This private 2-hour cruise from Melbourne is designed for those seeking an intimate, luxury adventure with a focus on wildlife and nature.

What’s Included

For a hefty price of $2,116.11 per person, guests receive a highly curated experience aboard the Moonraker Charters vessel. The tour includes snorkeling among seals and dolphins, a delicious lunch, afternoon tea, and access to various comfortable amenities like hot showers, a bar, a café, and a spacious sun deck. The exclusivity means you’ll likely be sharing with just your group, making it perfect for special occasions or those who dislike large tour groups.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise sets out from Esplanade, Sorrento, a charming coastal town known for its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery. After departure, you’ll head into the scenic waters of Point Nepean National Park—a site renowned for its natural beauty and marine diversity.

The core activity is snorkeling in Chinaman’s Hat, a location celebrated for its abundant Australian fur seals and dolphins. The reviews indicate that guests are encouraged to snorkel with basic swimming ability, so a moderate level of comfort in water is needed. The guides are experienced, with some reviews mentioning that they are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe during the aquatic encounters.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Can Expect

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to swim alongside wild dolphins and Australian fur seals. As one reviewer shared, “The chance to get so close to these incredible animals was unforgettable.” The seals, often seen at Chinaman’s Hat, tend to be curious, approaching snorkelers and providing perfect photo opportunities.

The tour is timed to maximize wildlife sightings, and the small-group setup means you’re not competing for views or attention. Guests often mention that the guides are helpful in spotting wildlife, making sure everyone gets the best possible experience.

Why the Lunch and Afternoon Tea Matter

The gourmet lunch and afternoon tea elevate this adventure from a simple wildlife cruise to a luxury experience. The onboard bar and café offer a variety of refreshments, and the meal is described as delicious and satisfying after time in the water. This setup allows you to relax and soak in the scenery without the rush, making the experience well-rounded.

Comfort and Amenities On Board

The Moonraker Charters vessel offers plenty of space, with a sun deck perfect for enjoying the views or catching some sun, and an inside lounge for cooler weather or quiet moments. The hot showers are a thoughtful addition, especially after swimming, and the bar/café ensures you can refresh or grab a snack anytime.

Meeting Points and Practicalities

Starting at Esplanade, Sorrento, the tour is convenient for travelers staying on the Mornington Peninsula or nearby Melbourne. The activity ends back at the same point, making logistics straightforward.

Guests are advised to bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles—essentials for comfort and sun protection. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is important. Service animals are allowed, and the tour accommodates most travelers, provided they meet swimming requirements.

Price and Value

At over $2,100, this experience isn’t cheap, but the value lies in its personalized nature, luxury amenities, and up-close wildlife encounters. Reviews suggest that the exclusivity, with only your group involved, makes it feel like a bespoke adventure rather than a crowded tour.

It’s worth noting that this is a premium experience, ideal for those celebrating special occasions or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime marine adventure. For comparison, similar tours with less exclusivity or amenities tend to be more affordable but less intimate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a private, luxury experience with a focus on marine wildlife. It suits those comfortable in water, looking for a personalized adventure that combines nature, comfort, and gourmet food. It’s ideal for celebration groups, romantic getaways, or family groups with confident swimmers.

If you’re after a relaxing day on the water with guaranteed wildlife sightings and gourmet meals, this tour ticks all boxes. However, if you prefer a budget-friendly, more casual experience, there are other options available on the Mornington Peninsula that focus on wildlife without the luxury extras.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy snorkeling and wildlife spotting without feeling rushed.

What is included in the experience?
You get snorkeling with seals and dolphins, a delicious lunch, afternoon tea, and access to amenities like hot showers, a bar, and a lounge.

Do I need swimming skills?
Yes, guests must have basic swimming ability to participate comfortably in snorkeling activities.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so it’s important to dress appropriately and be prepared for changing weather.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and returns to Esplanade, Sorrento, offering easy access for travelers staying nearby.

Is the experience private?
Absolutely. This is a private tour, with only your group participating, ensuring exclusivity and personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and a hat. Comfortable swimwear and towel are also recommended for the snorkeling part.

To sum it up, this Private 2-hour Seal Swim Cruise on Mornington Peninsula offers a memorable, intimate way to connect with Australian marine life in a luxurious setting. Perfect for those seeking a special experience with wildlife, comfort, and excellent service, it promises a day full of adventure and relaxation. If you’re willing to invest in a premium outing, it’s likely to deliver on its promise of close encounters and unforgettable moments.