Sorrento: Seal and Sea Dragons 2-Hour Snorkel Experience

Getting a chance to snorkel alongside playful Australian fur seals and glimpse the elusive Weedy Seadragon sounds like a dream. This guided tour from Sorrento offers just that, combining wildlife encounters with scenic views of Port Phillip Bay’s coastline. While it’s not a deep-sea expedition, it’s a well-rounded experience perfect for those wanting a taste of marine life without needing advanced diving skills.

What we love about this tour is its accessibility—it’s suitable for all skill levels—and the chance to see iconic Australian marine creatures in their natural environment. The guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the experience both fun and educational. Plus, the breathtaking coastal scenery adds an extra layer of beauty to the adventure. On the flip side, some reviewers mentioned feeling a little crowded at times, which is worth considering if you prefer a more solitary experience.

This tour is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone interested in a relaxed, nature-focused outing. If you enjoy marine life, stunning scenery, and a bit of snorkeling fun, this tour ticks several boxes. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to check high tide times for the best experience and be prepared for a cool sea breeze.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with Australian fur seals and see Weedy Seadragons in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Cruise: Enjoy stunning views of Port Phillip Bay’s coastline.
• All Skill Levels Welcome: Designed for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
• Inclusive Gear & Refreshments: Full wetsuits, snorkel gear, lunch, and hot drinks included.
• Educational Guides: Learn fun marine facts from friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Limited Crowds: Some reviews suggest the water can feel a little busy at the start, so arrive early.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 2-hour marine adventure kicks off with a scenic cruise departing from Sorrento Pier. The boat ride itself offers fantastic views, giving you a glimpse of the coast’s rugged beauty and the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay. It’s a chance to breathe in fresh sea air and get excited about the aquatic encounters ahead.

Snorkeling with Australian Fur Seals

Once anchored in a designated shallow, calm area, your guide will equip you with a full wetsuit and snorkel gear. The seals are the stars of this show—they’re playful, curious, and often swim close enough to feel like they’re part of your snorkel party. According to one reviewer, “Didn’t see the dolphins much, but the seals made up for it. They’re so close you can almost reach out and touch them,” highlighting how engaging these creatures are.

The seals’ playful antics make for great photo opportunities, so don’t forget your waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof case. The calm waters and gentle currents make this part accessible to snorkelers of all skill levels. Expect to float among these friendly marine mammals for about 30-40 minutes, with plenty of time to relax and take it all in.

Spotting the Weedy Seadragon

After the seal encounter, the boat moves to a kelp-bed area where the elusive Weedy Seadragon resides. This part of the tour is more about observing and appreciating rather than swimming alongside, but it’s no less magical. These creatures drift gracefully through the kelp, resembling floating seaweed and adding a magical, almost surreal visual element.

Guide commentary here is vital, as they share interesting facts about these unique marine animals—Victoria’s marine emblem. Expect to spend around 20-30 minutes snorkeling over the kelp beds, with ample chances to spot these rare, graceful creatures. Reviewers mention that seeing the seadragon feels like spotting a living work of art, and guides are often praised for their ability to point out these tiny, often camouflaged animals.

The Scenic Cruise and Atmosphere

The boat cruise itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the coastline. You’ll witness the rugged Mornington Peninsula cliffs, quaint seaside villages, and perhaps even a passing pod of dolphins or other marine life. The atmosphere on board is relaxed, thanks to friendly guides who share fun facts and answer questions as you enjoy your ride.

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Refreshments and Comfort

Post-snorkel, guests are treated to lunch, hot drinks, and refreshments—an appreciated touch, especially after cooling off in the water. The tour provides on-board change facilities and bathrooms, adding a layer of convenience. One traveler praised the small but well-organized catering, noting that it’s “enough to keep you going for the rest of the day,” which is especially helpful if you plan to explore more afterward.

Gear and Practical Tips

Included in the tour are full wetsuits and premium snorkel gear, ensuring comfort and safety, even for those new to snorkeling. Reviewers have noted that the gear is of good quality and well-maintained, making the experience smoother. Think ahead about what to bring: swimwear, a towel, hat, sunglasses, and a warm jacket for the breezy boat ride. You can purchase a towel onboard for $10 if needed.

Group Size, Timing, and Booking Details

The tours depart daily from Sorrento Pier, with departure times varying based on tide conditions—so it’s worth checking the schedule for the day you plan to go. The typical duration is two hours, including the cruise, snorkeling, and refreshments. The group size is generally kept manageable, but some reviews note that at peak times, the water can feel a little crowded at the start, with guests occasionally bumping into each other.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you the freedom to adjust your plans if needed. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice.

Authentic Experience and Guides

The guides from Moonraker Dolphin Swims are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. They don’t just lead a tour—they share insights and fun facts that enrich the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “The team was very friendly and helpful, making our first snorkel experience comfortable and fun.” Expect a relaxed, approachable atmosphere designed to make all participants feel at ease.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the tour offers a good mix of wildlife encounters, scenic cruising, and included amenities—making it reasonable for the value. You’re getting an opportunity to snorkel with seals, see a rare marine animal, enjoy a scenic cruise, and have lunch—all in a single outing. The inclusion of wetsuits, gear, and refreshments means you won’t need to worry about extra costs, and the guides’ expertise adds educational value.

Who This Tour Is For

This experience is ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and those new to snorkeling. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a laid-back, nature-focused adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed viewing. If you’re after a quick, fun, and educational marine outing near Melbourne, this tour checks many boxes. However, those seeking a solitary or very quiet experience may find the crowds at times a bit busy, especially during peak seasons.

The Sum Up

The Seal and Sea Dragons Snorkel Experience from Sorrento offers a well-rounded, engaging look at some of Victoria’s most captivating marine life. You’ll love the friendly guides, the chance to snorkel among playful seals, and the opportunity to view the graceful Weedy Seadragon in its natural kelp habitat—all against the stunning backdrop of Port Phillip Bay’s coastline.

The tour’s inclusive nature—from gear to lunch—and its flexible booking options make it accessible and stress-free. It provides an authentic, intimate glimpse into marine creatures that are usually hidden beneath the waves, perfect for those who want a memorable wildlife encounter without the need for advanced diving skills.

Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler with a curiosity for marine life, this adventure promises a delightful combination of education, scenic beauty, and playful wildlife encounters. Remember to dress warmly, arrive early, and bring your camera—this is one experience that’s worth every moment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, it’s designed for all skill levels, including those new to snorkeling. The full wetsuits and guide support help make it accessible.

Will I see dolphins or other marine animals besides seals and seadragons? The main animals highlighted are the seals and seadragons, although occasional sightings of dolphins or other marine life are possible, especially during the cruise.

What should I bring on the day? Pack swimwear, a towel, hat, sunglasses, and a warm jacket for the boat ride. You can also purchase a towel onboard for $10.

How long will I be in the water? Expect about 30-40 minutes snorkeling with the seals and 20-30 minutes over kelp beds spotting seadragons, within the total 2-hour tour duration.

Is the tour affected by tides? Yes, departure times vary based on tide conditions, so check the schedule for your preferred day.

What is the group size? While groups are generally manageable, some reviews mention feeling a bit crowded at the start of the snorkeling, especially during peak times.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: