Mornington Peninsula, just a short drive from Melbourne, offers some of Australia’s most accessible and rewarding wildlife encounters. Its calm waters, protected bays, and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for dolphin watching. Whether you prefer relaxing cruises, snorkeling adventures, or even kayaking, this region has options that fit different tastes and budgets. We’re especially fond of the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim because it combines snorkeling with close-up encounters and offers a repeat guarantee if you don’t see dolphins on your first try. It’s a great pick for families and first-timers wanting a balanced mix of comfort and adventure.
For those seeking privacy and exclusivity, the Private 2 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim stands out, offering a luxurious, personalized experience that feels more like a day with friends than a tour. If budget is the focus, the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise is a solid choice, providing a good chance to see wildlife without breaking the bank. Active travelers or those who love paddling might prefer the Mornington Peninsula Kayak Coastline Tour, which combines wildlife spotting with some light exercise. Each experience offers a different way to connect with the region’s lively marine environment.
- 1. 3 hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (NOV-APR)
- 2. Private 2 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim Mornington Peninsula
- 3. 3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, operated with swim tour passengers
- 4. Dolphin and Seal snorkel adventure from Sorrento
- 5. Mornington Peninsula Kayak Coastline Tour of Dolphin Sanctuary
- How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Experience in Mornington Peninsula
- Final thoughts
1. 3 hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (NOV-APR)
This 3-hour snorkeling tour is one of the most popular options, especially from November through April, when dolphin sightings are at their peak. It departs from Mornington Peninsula and includes snorkeling equipment, onboard café, and bathroom facilities. The main highlight is swimming with Australian fur seals at Chinaman’s Hat, a manmade island teeming with these curious creatures. Afterward, the boat searches for dolphins in Port Phillip Bay, making this a flexible option since you can choose between morning or afternoon departures.
What makes this tour stand out is its guarantee: if you don’t see dolphins, you can rejoin within three months for free. The reviews reflect its popularity, with many praising the friendly staff and the thrill of swimming with seals. Visibility might vary, but most guests find the experience rewarding. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys snorkeling and wants a good chance to swim with wild marine life in a safe environment.
Bottom Line: A balanced choice for families or snorkelers wanting a reliable, well-equipped trip that combines seal encounters with dolphin sightseeing.
2. Private 2 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim Mornington Peninsula
For travelers craving an exclusive, luxury experience, the Private 2 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim offers just that. This tour is designed for groups up to 19 friends, with the boat “Moonraker” all to yourselves. It’s ideal for special occasions or those who want to avoid crowds. The boat features hot showers, a bar, and a café, making the trip ultra-comfortable. You’ll snorkel with Australian Fur Seals and swim with resident Bottle Nose Dolphins in the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized nature of the experience. There’s no fixed schedule; you and your group can tailor the trip to your preferences, making it highly memorable. The reviews emphasize the “luxury” feel and the exclusivity of having the boat all to yourself. The only downside is the price—over $2,300 per group—but for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, many find it well worth the cost.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups celebrating a special occasion or those who want a private, upscale marine adventure with guaranteed wildlife encounters.
3. 3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, operated with swim tour passengers
This 3-hour cruise offers a relaxed, scenic journey around Port Phillip Bay, combining wildlife watching and the possibility of swimming. It’s operated with a family-friendly vibe, with room to walk around and onboard refreshments. The cruise covers notable areas like Port Phillip Heads, Pope’s Eye Marine Park, and the waters off Sorrento and Portsea, all excellent spots for spotting dolphins, seals, and other marine life.
The tour guarantees dolphin sightings, which is reassuring for first-timers. Many reviews mention seeing large groups of dolphins up close and swimming with Australian fur seals. The trip is suitable for all ages, with options to sit inside or on deck. For a modest price of around $78, this tour provides good value, especially combined with the chance to see Iconic Sorrento waterfront homes from the water.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly option with scenic views and wildlife viewing, perfect for those wanting a comfortable cruise with wildlife guarantees.
4. Dolphin and Seal snorkel adventure from Sorrento
This 3-hour snorkeling adventure from Sorrento offers an active way to see dolphins and fur seals in their natural habitat. The trip includes morning tea or lunch onboard, making it a full experience. After the provided safety briefing and gear fitting, you’ll glide through Port Phillip Bay’s shallow waters hunting for wild dolphins and seals, with the added thrill of swimming alongside them.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on interactive wildlife encounters—not just observing but actually swimming with these creatures. Many travelers highlight the luck of seeing dolphins and the friendly seals. If you don’t spot dolphins, you can rebook, ensuring you don’t miss out. The reviews point out the “fantastic day” and the “great crew,” emphasizing the personal attention and excitement.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine snorkeling with wildlife encounters in a lively, engaging setting.
5. Mornington Peninsula Kayak Coastline Tour of Dolphin Sanctuary
For those who prefer a more physical experience, the Kayak Coastline Tour offers a hands-on way to explore the dolphin sanctuary. Over about three hours, your guide takes you paddling along Port Phillip Bay, with stops at Point Nepean and Millionaires Walk. Along the way, you’ll learn about the region’s wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.
The tour is suitable for beginners and includes all necessary gear, making it accessible. It’s a quieter, more intimate experience compared to boat tours, with the chance to see wildlife up close from a different perspective. The reviews are mixed—some found it “great,” while others felt it was a bit short with only two reviews. Nonetheless, it’s a good option if you’re active and want to blend adventure with wildlife education.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want an immersive, low-impact wildlife experience with scenic coastline views.
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Experience in Mornington Peninsula
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a relaxed, scenic cruise with wildlife guarantees, the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise offers excellent value. If you want a personalized, luxurious outing, the Private 2 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim is unmatched but more expensive.
Active travelers who love paddling should look into the Kayak Coastline Tour, which combines exercise with wildlife watching. For families or snorkelers eager to get in the water, the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim or the Dolphin and Seal snorkel adventure from Sorrento provide immersive marine experiences.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak months from November to April, when dolphin sightings are most common. Checking the weather and marine conditions ahead of time ensures a smoother, more enjoyable trip.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re after a relaxed cruise, a private luxury experience, or an active paddling adventure, Mornington Peninsula has a dolphin watching tour that fits your style. The 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim provides a balanced, family-friendly option, while the private tour offers exclusivity for special occasions. For budget-conscious travelers, the sightseeing cruise offers good value with excellent wildlife viewing chances.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance during the summer months will maximize your chances of encountering dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. So pack your sense of adventure and your camera—Mornington Peninsula’s waters are waiting.
Happy dolphin watching!