Two standout 3-hour tours showcase the best of Mornington Peninsula’s marine life. The top pick, a hands-on Dolphin and Seal Swim Tour, gets you up close with playful Australian fur seals and sometimes bottlenose dolphins. For those preferring to stay dry, an equally rewarding Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise delivers great wildlife viewing from the comfort of the boat. Both tours maintain small groups of 30 or fewer, include expert naturalist guides, quality gear, and convenient transport. These thoughtfully organized experiences rank among the region’s most memorable outings. Let’s look at the details of these excellent tours.
Key Points
- The 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim Tour offers an intimate wildlife experience, with a maximum group size of 30 and the opportunity to swim with seals and potentially spot dolphins.
- The Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise provides an alternative for non-swimmers to enjoy scenic views and sightings of bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals on a luxury purpose-built boat.
- The tour departs from the Esplanade in Sorrento, Victoria, with convenient access via public transportation, and offers a seamless experience with return to the meeting point post-tour.
- The tour is awarded a Badge of Excellence by Moonraker Dolphin Swims, emphasizing the crew’s professionalism and the overall enjoyment noted by customers.
- The tour provides snorkeling equipment, full-length wetsuits, and optional educational presentations by qualified naturalists, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.
3 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (Nov-Apr)
The 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim tour takes travelers on an unforgettable adventure in the waters of Port Phillip Bay, located on the Mornington Peninsula. Awarded the Badge of Excellence by Moonraker Dolphin Swims, this tour offers the chance to swim with seals at Chinamans Hat, known for its Australian Fur Seals.
Participants may also have the opportunity to swim with dolphins, if spotted during the excursion. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and a full-length wetsuit, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
Travelers can also enjoy optional presentations from qualified naturalists, who provide insights into the local marine life. With a maximum of 30 participants, the tour guarantees a personalized and intimate experience.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour departs from the Esplanade in Sorrento, Victoria. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, providing a seamless experience.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (Nov-Apr) Review
Book now: Check availability
3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, Operated With Swim Tour Passengers
For travelers looking to experience the wonders of the Mornington Peninsula’s marine life without getting in the water, the 3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise offers a captivating alternative.
This half-day cruise on Port Phillip Bay promises sightings of bottlenose dolphins, Australian fur seals, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Aboard a luxury purpose-built boat, passengers can enjoy the scenic locations around the bay, with the option to sit inside the cabin or outside on the deck.
While swimming and snorkeling activities aren’t included, the cruise provides ample opportunities for amazing photo ops and premium wildlife viewing.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized encounter.
Though reviews are mixed, many customers have praised the professionalism of the crew and the overall enjoyment of the scenic views and wildlife encounters.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing sightseeing adventure or a chance to observe the peninsula’s marine life, this 3-hour cruise is worth considering.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, Operated With Swim Tour Passengers Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
You can bring your own snorkel gear, but it’s not necessary. The tour operators provide all the necessary equipment, including high-quality snorkels, masks, and fins. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience during your tour.
Is the Water Temperature Suitable for Swimming?
The water temperature in Mornington Peninsula is generally suitable for swimming during the warmer months, though it can be chilly at times. It’s best to check the current conditions before planning a swim.
Can I Upgrade to a Longer Tour?
Yes, many tour operators offer the option to upgrade to longer tours. Guests can often extend their experiences to explore more of the Mornington Peninsula at their own pace. It’s best to inquire about upgrade possibilities when booking.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?
There are typically no age or fitness requirements for Mornington Peninsula tours, though some activities may have restrictions. Customers should check with the tour operator about any specific requirements before booking.
Can I Purchase Photos of the Wildlife Encounters?
Yes, you can typically purchase photos of the wildlife encounters during these tours. Many operators offer photography packages or allow you to purchase individual photos taken by the guide or other participants.
Recap
The Mornington Peninsula offers a range of 3-hour tours and experiences, including a dolphin and seal swim or sightseeing cruise. These tours provide the opportunity to observe marine wildlife in their natural habitat, making for a memorable and educational day trip. With the flexibility of both swimming and sightseeing options, visitors can choose the experience that best suits their preferences.