Exclusive Seal Discovery Eco-Cruise
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Port
Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$119.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Perched on the southwestern side of the island is the jaw-dropping area known as the Summerland Peninsula. Travel by boat to this magnificent headland that is Phillip Island's westernmost point and is home to about 16,000 fur seals.
Your adventure begins as you board the boat at the pier and head out onto the crystalline waters of Bass Strait, which separates Tasmania from the Australian mainland. A two-hour eco-cruise affords an up-close look at Australia's largest fur seal colony -- an amazing comeback given that in the early 18th century, this seal species was almost extinct. The enormous extended family is proof that conservation efforts are working.
You will glide within feet of thousands of seals frolicking in the water and sunning themselves on the rocks. Unlike other fur seals, the Australian seal is noted for its small ears, large eyes and sharp teeth. An agile swimmer with a streamlined shape and strong flippers, it can dive to depths of 650 feet.
If you're visiting in January, you may observe fur seal pups taking their first swimming lessons.
Playful dolphins have been known to join in the fun, sometimes cruising alongside the boat.
Notes:
Wear warm, layered, comfortable clothing and non-skid shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.