About this tour
A 90-minute wildlife cruise departing from Sorrento Pier on the Mornington Peninsula, tracking seals, dolphins and seabirds across Southern Port Phillip Bay. The centrepiece is Popes Eye Marine Park, where you'll watch Australasian gannets nesting and rearing chicks at their largest breeding colony. Aboard a purpose-built vessel, you'll have sustained viewing opportunities and decent light for photography throughout.
Highlights
- Seal and dolphin spotting in Port Phillip Bay
- Australasian gannet colony at breeding season
- Popes Eye Marine Park as dedicated stop
- Purpose-built boat with onboard hot drinks
- Sea-bird identification throughout the cruise
- Extended viewing windows for photography
What to expect
You'll board at Sorrento Pier and head into the bay with a naturalist guide pointing out resident and transient marine life. Seals haul out on rocks; dolphins cruise the shallows in small pods. The run to Popes Eye takes roughly 30 minutes, where the boat slows and circles the breeding colony—nesting birds, chicks in various stages, and the occasional plunge-dive into the water below. Return journey mirrors the route, with fresh sightings likely. Hot drinks and light snacks are available throughout. No swimming or in-water activities. Dress warmly; the bay wind can bite, especially on the return leg.
Good to know
Bring layers and a wind-resistant jacket. Prams and strollers are accommodated, though deck space is limited. Children need adult supervision at all times. Public transport serves Sorrento Pier; no hotel pickups included. Not suitable if you're prone to seasickness.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.