2-Hour Seal Watching Cruise

Phillip Island: Seal Watching Cruise

★ 4.9 236 reviews

from $79 per person

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Duration: 2 hours
Meeting point: Cowes
Cancellation: Cancel free up to a day ahead
Meals: Tea, coffee and cake
Run by: Wildlife Coast Cruises

Overview

This two-hour cruise from Cowes heads out to Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia's largest fur seal colonies, where the boat drifts among Australian fur seals.

The voyage out is a scenic coastal run along Phillip Island's shoreline, with commentary from the crew pointing out wildlife and historical sights visible from the boat. Once at the rocks the pace slows, giving passengers time to watch, photograph and simply take in the colony.

On board there is a warm undercover viewing area, tea, coffee and cake, and activities to keep children occupied. Visitors can also step up to the captain's bridge to see how the boat is run.

What's Included

Included

Tea, coffee and cake

Duration2 hours

Departs FromCowes

Itinerary

Meet at Cowes jettyThe cruise departs from the meeting point at Cowes jetty.
Cruise the coastDepart for a scenic coastal run along Phillip Island, with commentary on the wildlife and historical sights along the way.
Drift at Seal RocksSpend time drifting among the fur seal colony at Seal Rocks, watching young pups and adult bulls from the water.
Onboard comfortTea, coffee and cake are served during the trip, and children have onboard activities. The captain's bridge is open for a look at how the boat operates.
Return to CowesCruise back to the jetty at Cowes.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points from the booking page and from traveller reviews will help you get the most out of this cruise.

A cruise boat on open water passing granite cliffs near the Cape Woolamai headland.

Warm layers. A reviewer recommends taking an extra jacket for the trip. Another traveller was glad to have a shawl along. Extra warm layers are a sensible addition for time on the water.
Seal smell. One reviewer noted the smell near the colony and was glad of something to cover the nose. That is the reality of drifting beside thousands of seals, so be prepared.
Camera time. Bring a camera so you have plenty of time to use it.
Food and drink. Tea, coffee and cake are included, with lemon cake drawing a specific compliment in the reviews. No other food or drink is listed as provided, so bring water if you want it.
Families welcome. The boat carries activities for children and the commentary is pitched at identifying wildlife, which reviewers describe as knowledgeable. Children travelled on this cruise and enjoyed it, according to the reviews.

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Common issues. The boat itself drew one complaint about engine noise, vibration and exhaust fumes, particularly at the stern, so a spot away from the back may suit noise-sensitive travellers. One reviewer also found the public address system hard to hear in places, though crew members are stationed on the decks for one-on-one questions.

Common Questions

How Long Is The Seal Watching Cruise?

The cruise runs for two hours. It departs from and returns to the jetty at Cowes on Phillip Island.

Where Does The Tour Start?

The meeting point is Cowes jetty.

Is Food Included?

Yes. Tea, coffee and cake are provided on board at no extra charge. Reviewers have singled out the lemon cake as a nice touch.

Is The Cruise Suitable For Children?

Yes. Families with young children appear in the traveller reviews as happy customers.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking page also advertises a reserve now, pay later option if you want to keep plans flexible.