Sorrento: Boat Tour & Snorkeling with the Seals with Lunch

Sorrento: Boat Tour & Snorkeling with the Seals with Lunch

If you’re craving a day of marine wildlife encounters combined with beautiful coastal scenery, this snorkeling adventure in Sorrento offers quite the package. From sailing across Port Phillip Bay to swimming among curious seals, it promises a mix of fun, relaxation, and wildlife spotting—all wrapped into a compact two-hour experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to swim with Australian fur seals in their natural environment, the stunning views of the coastline, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who add a personal touch. The inclusion of lunch and refreshments makes it feel like a well-rounded day out.

One consideration is that, based on some reviews, the initial part of the water activities can feel a bit crowded, especially if you’re sensitive to busy conditions. Still, for anyone who loves marine animals and picturesque settings, this tour hits many high notes. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a shorter, memorable sea adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkel with playful Australian fur seals in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Port Phillip Bay’s coastline.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, snacks, drinks, and marine park fees are included in the ticket price.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide interesting facts and assist during the swim.
• Convenient Location: Meeting at Sorrento Pier makes it accessible and easy to find.
• Short but Sweet: Two-hour duration, ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

How the Tour Unfolds

The adventure begins at Sorrento Pier, where you check in roughly 20 minutes before departure. Here, you’ll collect your snorkeling equipment—including a full-length wetsuit, snorkel gear, and fins—making sure you’re prepared for the water before setting sail. The boat itself is described as a luxury tour vessel, promising comfort and style, and it’s perfect for a relaxed cruise with friends or family.

The cruise lasts about two hours, usually offered in the morning and afternoon, so you can choose a time that suits your plans. As you cruise out into Port Phillip Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views—a chance to snap photos of the famous shoreline while listening to commentary from guides about local marine life and landmarks.

Snorkeling at Chinaman’s Hat

The highlight is the snorkel stop at Chinaman’s Hat, a structure built specifically for the seals, in a sheltered area with a maximum depth of four meters. This depth makes it suitable for all levels, allowing you to simply float and watch as curious seals swim freely around you—some playful, others darting back and forth, eager to engage.

Reviews mention that some groups can feel a bit crowded at the start, with multiple swimmers in the water at once. Still, the guides are attentive, helping everyone find their footing and ensuring safety, even in busy moments.

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Marine Life and Scenery

Besides seals, you’ll likely see giant smooth rays gliding beneath and a variety of marine life in the shallow sandy seabed, creating a lively underwater scene. The guides share fun facts and tips, enriching the experience and making it suitable for marine enthusiasts or even first-time snorkelers.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation and Lunch

After your swim, the boat returns to the shore where you can recharge with lunch and hot drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Reviewers appreciated the sufficient refreshments and the friendly crew, who made the small group feel welcoming and cared for. The included lunch is described as delicious, with one reviewer mentioning a “delicious sandwich,” perfect for fueling up after the water adventures.

Extra Wildlife Sightings

While seals are the main attraction, some guests have been fortunate enough to spot dolphins and even penguins during these trips. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and their ability to spot and point out the wildlife, making the trip feel personalized and more rewarding.

Overall Value

At $86 per person, this tour offers a lot—an authentic wildlife encounter combined with scenic views and included meals. The marine park fees and taxes are covered, so you won’t encounter hidden costs. Based on reviews, many feel the price is justified, especially considering the expert guidance and quality equipment provided.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wildlife lovers, families, or anyone wanting a quick, memorable outdoor activity. If you’re comfortable in the water and eager to see seals up close, you’ll likely find this a highlight of your trip. The tour does suit most ages, given the shallow snorkel site, but children or less confident swimmers should be mindful of the initial busy water conditions.

It’s also perfect for travelers looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and refreshments without it feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Sorrento boat tour with snorkeling with seals offers a fantastic blend of wildlife, scenery, and comfort. The knowledgeable guides help create an engaging experience, making marine animals accessible and fun for all. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds value, especially since many similar tours charge extra for food.

While some may find the start of the water activities a little crowded, the overall atmosphere remains friendly and safe. The stunning views of Port Phillip Bay and the chance to swim among curious seals make it a worthwhile outing for those keen on marine wildlife and coastal beauty.

If you’re after a compact but authentic sea adventure, this tour suits anyone wanting a short, sweet, wildlife-filled escape from the usual sightseeing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the cruise, snorkeling, and refreshments.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel, as these are recommended essentials for the water portion of the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, full-length wetsuits, snorkels, fins, and gear are included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

What if I can’t swim well?
The shallow depth of four meters makes it accessible for most swimmers. Guides are in the water to assist and ensure safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are there opportunities to see other marine animals?
Yes, some guests have seen dolphins and penguins during the trip, with guides pointing out wildlife as they spot it.

This snorkeling tour from Sorrento is a special way to connect with marine life in a relaxed, scenic setting. Great for wildlife fans and those seeking a quick, authentic sea adventure, it offers plenty of memorable moments at a fair price.

You can check availability for your dates here: