Mornington Peninsula, just a short ferry ride from Melbourne, offers some of Victoria’s most beautiful waters and a surprising chance to see wild dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. The calm waters of Port Phillip Bay make it an ideal place for dolphin spotting, and the variety of tours here means there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a hands-on experience swimming with marine life or prefer a scenic cruise to see dolphins from afar, the options are plentiful. We’re especially fond of the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim — it combines the thrill of snorkeling with the chance to get close to Australian Fur Seals at Chinaman’s Hat, a truly memorable experience.
With so many choices, it can be hard to decide. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best dolphin watching tours in Mornington Peninsula, highlighting what makes each one unique and helping you find the perfect fit for your adventure.
Quick Overview
The tours below cover a broad spectrum of experiences, from snorkeling with dolphins to relaxing cruise options with dolphin sightings guaranteed. Some tours focus on swimming with marine life, offering intimate encounters, while others are scenic cruises perfect for families or those who prefer to stay dry. Each one offers a different way to experience the region’s rich marine environment, with detailed descriptions and honest insights to help you choose.
1. 3 hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (NOV-APR)
This tour is a hands-on snorkeling adventure perfect for those wanting to get close to marine life. It’s available from November through April, when the water is warm enough for swims with seals and dolphins. The tour departs from Mornington Peninsula and lasts about three hours, including snorkeling gear, a boat ride, and opportunities to swim with Australian Fur Seals at Chinaman’s Hat.
The highlight here is the chance to snorkel amidst these friendly seals and, if luck is on your side, spot dolphins swimming nearby. The boat provides onboard café and bathroom facilities, making for a comfortable experience. Plus, if you don’t see dolphins on your first try, you’re eligible for a free repeat within three months — a good way to maximize your chances.
Reviewers rave about the friendly staff and the up-close encounters with seals. Some mention the visibility wasn’t perfect during their trip, but most agree that swimming with seals was unforgettable. The price of around $142.61 per person reflects a high-value, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers eager for a hands-on, wildlife-focused experience — just be prepared for the water temperature and gear up with your wetsuit!
2. 3-Hour Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise, operated with swim tour passengers
If you prefer to stay dry but still want to see dolphins and seals in their natural environment, this cruise offers a scenic alternative. It lasts about three hours and takes you around Port Phillip Bay, including the famous Port Phillip Heads and The Rip. The boat has a roomy, comfortable layout with both indoor and outdoor seating options, and it features complimentary light refreshments.
What sets this tour apart is the guaranteed dolphin sighting — the crew is experienced at finding marine life, and most trips see plenty of bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals. The tour also passes by famous waterfront homes in Sorrento and Portsea, making it a visually appealing experience.
During the cruise, you’ll stop at Moonraker Dolphin Swims and explore marine parks like Popes Eye, where large colonies of Australasian Gannets can be observed. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable crew and the relaxed atmosphere. The ticket costs around $64.51, making it a budget-friendly option that delivers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those who prefer a comfortable, scenic cruise with the certainty of dolphin sightings — no swimming required.
3. Dolphin and Seal snorkel adventure from Sorrento
For those craving a true underwater encounter, this snorkel adventure from Sorrento is hard to beat. Priced at about $142.61 per person and lasting around three hours, it offers the rare chance to swim with wild dolphins and seals in Port Phillip Bay. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and a delicious onboard lunch or morning tea, giving you fuel for the adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to glide alongside schools of wild bottlenose dolphins, plus colonies of Australian fur seals. The tour is flexible, with options for morning or afternoon departures, and if dolphins are elusive, you can simply join another tour later.
Guests often describe the experience as fantastic, especially the ability to swim and snorkel with marine life in their natural habitat. The crew is praised for being friendly and professional, making the experience accessible even for first-time snorkelers. This tour is best for active travelers who want an immersive marine adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers eager to get in the water and swim alongside Australia’s iconic sea creatures.
4. Mornington Peninsula Kayak Coastline Tour of Dolphin Sanctuary
If you prefer an active, outdoorsy approach, this kayak tour offers a different perspective. It costs around $74.21 and lasts about three hours, combining paddling with wildlife viewing. Your guide will share little-known facts about the local wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.
What makes this tour special is the chance to navigate along the coastline of Mornington Peninsula, seeing dolphins in calmer waters where you can get close without getting wet. It’s suitable for all skill levels, as equipment and safety gear are provided, and a pre-departure briefing prepares you for paddling.
While reviews are limited, those who have tried it emphasize the peacefulness of the scenery and the excitement of spotting wildlife up close. It’s an excellent choice for active travelers who want to combine exercise with wildlife watching.
Bottom Line: Best suited for paddlers who want an interactive outdoor experience, combining nature and physical activity.
$74.21 per person
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Mornington Peninsula
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how close you want to get to marine life. If swimming with seals and dolphins appeals, the 3-hour Dolphin and Seal Swim offers an unforgettable underwater experience, especially during summer months. For a more relaxed, scenic option, the dolphin sightseeing cruise guarantees sightings and stunning views without getting wet. Meanwhile, the snorkel adventure is perfect if you want to dive in and explore marine life firsthand. For the active types, the kayak tour offers a hands-on way to enjoy the coastline and spot wildlife from a different angle.
Remember to book early, especially during peak season (November to April), and consider your comfort with water activities or paddling. Checking weather conditions is also wise, as marine wildlife spotting can be affected by sea calmness and visibility.
Final Thoughts
Mornington Peninsula offers a rich variety of ways to experience its marine life — from immersive snorkeling adventures to scenic boat cruises. For families or those on a budget, the dolphin sightseeing cruise provides excellent value with a guarantee of sightings. Adventure seekers and active travelers will enjoy the snorkel trips or kayak tours that put you right in the water or along the coast.
No matter which option you choose, remember that marine wildlife is unpredictable, so patience and flexibility are key. Booking in advance and choosing a season from late spring to early autumn will maximize your chances of encountering dolphins in their natural habitat. Happy exploring — and don’t forget your camera!