Phillip Island offers more than just adorable penguins and scenic views; it’s a prime spot for marine wildlife encounters and stunning coastal cruises. Whether you’re eager to see Australian fur seals lounging on rocks, watch whales migrating, or simply enjoy a relaxing boat ride along rugged cliffs, this island delivers. Our favorite experience is the Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise because it combines up-close wildlife sightings with great views and informative commentary. Plus, it’s highly rated across the board for its friendly crew and multiple wildlife encounters, including dolphins and seabirds. If you’re after a full day of marine adventure, the Dolphin & Whale Cruise offers an immersive experience, especially during whale migration season.
Phillip Island’s boat tours are ideal for wildlife lovers, nature photographers, and anyone wanting to experience the coast from a new perspective. This list includes scenic cruises, seal-watching trips, and whale-viewing tours, giving you options based on your interests and schedule. Whether you prefer a quick 1-hour scenic cruise or a longer 4-hour whale expedition, there’s something here for every traveler.
1. Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise
At number 1, the Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise takes you right into the heart of Australia’s largest fur seal colony. This 2-hour catamaran cruise offers indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy the views regardless of the weather. The onboard live commentary provides insights into local landmarks and wildlife behaviors, making it educational as well as entertaining.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see thousands of seals lounging on rocks and swimming in bays, which is truly spectacular. Many reviewers highlight how close they got to the seals, and the captain’s skillful navigation ensures everyone gets a good look. Beyond seals, you might spot dolphins, whales, and penguins, adding to the sense of discovery. Guests rave about the friendly crew and the relaxed atmosphere, with some mentioning how even kids can grasp the wildlife stories thanks to the clear commentary.
Bottom Line: If wildlife viewing, particularly seals, is your priority, this cruise is a top choice. It’s a relaxing but highly rewarding way to connect with Phillip Island’s marine life.
2. Phillip Island: 1-Hour Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise
The Phillip Island: 1-Hour Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise offers a quick but picturesque glimpse of the island’s rugged coast. This short cruise showcases the dramatic cliffs of Cape Woolamai and provides excellent opportunities to see seabirds like gannets and cormorants soaring overhead. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience Phillip Island’s natural beauty.
Onboard, you can enjoy coffee and cake, making the journey both relaxing and flavorful. The focus here is on scenery and marine life—marine mammals are not guaranteed, but the chances of spotting seabirds and enjoying the breathtaking coastline make this a worthwhile outing. The cruise’s reputation for friendly service and intimate settings earns consistent praise from past visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick scenic fix without sacrificing exposure to Phillip Island’s stunning coastline and birdlife.
3. Philip Island: Seal Watching Cruise
This Seal Watching Cruise is a 2-hour voyage that takes you along Phillip Island’s scenic coast to see Australia’s largest fur seal colony. The tour offers regular sightings of dolphins, penguins, and seabirds, making it a comprehensive marine wildlife experience. The cruise’s educational commentary enhances understanding of the species and habitats you encounter.
What makes this trip particularly appealing (beyond the seals) is the spectacular coastal scenery and the chance to learn about local wildlife from experienced guides. Many reviews mention how close they got to the seals and how the crew’s knowledge made the experience richer. Some visitors appreciate the complimentary tea, coffee, and cake, which adds a nice touch of comfort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a detailed, up-close look at seals and other marine animals, with educational value and scenic views.
4. Dolphin & Whale Cruise
The Dolphin & Whale Cruise stands out for its focus on whale migration and marine mammals. During approximately 3 hours, you’ll explore the wild coastline of Phillip Island aboard a large, comfortable catamaran. This tour is particularly popular in winter when humpback and southern right whales pass through, offering chances for spectacular sightings.
The highlight is the opportunity to see whales up close during their migration, along with seals at Seal Rock and frequent dolphin sightings. The onboard commentary enriches the experience with facts about whale behaviors and ocean ecology. Many travelers mention the relaxing atmosphere and the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. The boat’s size ensures a stable ride even in choppy waters, which adds to comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those keen on whale watching and willing to dedicate a half-day; the seasonally abundant whales make this a memorable experience.
5. Phillip Island: Whale Watching Boat Tour
This Whale Watching Boat Tour offers a 4-hour adventure exploring Phillip Island’s marine life and coastline. It’s ideal for those who want a lengthier, more in-depth experience. The tour focuses on spotting whales and seals, with the added benefit of morning tea to start your journey on a relaxing note.
The lengthy cruise allows enough time to spot large colonies of seals and get a good look at whales during migration season. Past reviews highlight how well-organized the trip is and how much they appreciated the extended time on the water—great for wildlife photographers and serious animal watchers.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a deeper experience with marine life, particularly during whale season, this tour offers strong value and immersive wildlife viewing.
6. Philip Island: Dolphin and Whale Cruise
The Dolphin and Whale Cruise combines dolphin and whale sightings into a 3-hour ocean adventure. It’s a flexible choice with a focus on marine wildlife, including seals and a variety of seabirds. The onboard licenced bar and afternoon tea add comfort and a social element.
While the reviews are slightly more mixed, the tour’s strength lies in the variety of species you can see and the scenic coastline. It’s suited for travelers who want a shorter, engaging wildlife cruise with a chance to relax onboard.
Bottom Line: A good pick for those who want a multi-species marine experience without committing to a longer trip or specific season.
How to Choose
When deciding which cruise is best for you, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. For the best wildlife encounters, the seal-watching (tour #1) or whale watching cruises (tour #4 and #5) are your top options. If you’re short on time but want beautiful scenery and birdlife, the Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise (tour #2) fits perfectly. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter, scenic options, while wildlife enthusiasts may want the longer, more comprehensive trips.
Also, check the seasonality—whale sightings peak during migration season in winter, while seals can be seen year-round. Booking early is advisable during busy periods, especially for whale season.
Phillip Island’s marine tours offer a fantastic way to connect with Australia’s wildlife in their natural environment. Whether you choose a quick scenic cruise or a dedicated whale-watching trip, each provides a unique look at this rugged, wildlife-rich coast. The best advice? Pick the tour that matches your interests and schedule—and book early to secure your spot for these unforgettable experiences.