Sorrento: Boat Tour & Snorkeling with the Seals with Lunch

Imagine gliding across Port Phillip Bay on a comfortable, luxury boat, with scenic views of the coastline and the chance to swim alongside playful Australian fur seals. This 2-hour cruise from Sorrento offers a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife viewing, and relaxation for anyone craving a close encounter with nature without sacrificing comfort. For just $86 per person, you get not only a chance to snorkel in the seals’ natural habitat but also a delicious meal, snacks, and drinks—an all-inclusive experience that hits the sweet spot between value and authenticity.

We especially love the small-group feel and the knowledgeable guides like Emma, who make the experience both fun and educational. The marine life sightings—including seals, dolphins, and even rays—are complemented by breathtaking coastal scenery, making every moment memorable. A minor consideration is that at peak times, the water can feel a little crowded, especially at the start, so patience may be required. This tour suits nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in marine wildlife who appreciates a relaxed pace and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Snorkel with Australian fur seals in their natural habitat, with frequent sightings of dolphins and rays.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy a scenic cruise showcasing the famous coastline of Port Phillip Bay.
• All-Inclusive: Your ticket covers the cruise, snorkel gear, wetsuits, marine park fees, and a nourishing lunch with drinks.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Emma provide fun, engaging insights into marine life and safety tips.
• Flexible Schedule: Tours are typically available in the morning or afternoon and can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family Friendly: Appropriate for all ages, especially those comfortable in water and eager for wildlife encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It Works

For $86 per person, this 2-hour experience offers a surprisingly rich package. You’ll meet at Sorrento Pier about 20 minutes before departure, collect your snorkeling equipment, and board a comfortable, luxury tour boat. The boat is equipped for safety and comfort, with full-length wetsuits and snorkel gear provided—perfect for staying warm while observing marine life.

Once underway, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise across Port Phillip Bay toward Chinaman’s Hat, a specially built structure designed as a habitat for the seals. The boat ride itself is a treat, with stunning views of the coastline and the chance to see the bay’s famous features, including other wildlife and seabirds.

Snorkeling with Australian Fur Seals

The highlight of this tour is the opportunity to swim alongside Australian fur seals. The area around Chinaman’s Hat is sheltered, with a maximum depth of about four meters—ideal for floating and watching these curious, friendly creatures. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, the guides are attentive and supportive, helping you feel confident in the water.

Guides like Emma and others provide insights about seal behavior and marine ecology, making the experience both fun and educational. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledgeability and their friendly approach, which greatly enhances the trip.

You might find the initial moments a little chaotic if you’re in a crowded group, as some reviewers note, but once everyone settles in, the seals often approach close enough to get a good look. The seals are playful and curious, darting around you and sometimes even swimming underneath or above. Expect to see rays gliding past and other marine life in the sandy seabed.

The Marine Life and the Environment

The marine environment here is lively and diverse. Alongside seals, you’ll often spot dolphins, and in the water, giant smooth rays are common visitors. This variety makes every snorkel session special. The sheltered waters ensure calmer conditions during the tour, but it’s always wise to be comfortable in water and wear the supplied wetsuit for warmth.

Post-Swim Relaxation and Lunch

After your aquatic adventure, you’ll return to the boat for a well-deserved lunch and refreshments. The included meal features sandwiches, hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, and chilled water—enough to re-energize you after swimming. Many travelers note the quality of the organization and the friendly crew who make sure everyone is comfortable and satisfied.

One reviewer shared, “The equipment and the small refreshments afterwards were also sufficient,” highlighting the thoughtful touches that enhance the experience. The tour’s all-inclusive nature means you don’t have to worry about extra costs—marine park fees, snacks, and drinks are all part of the package.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure with a focus on native Australian marine animals. It’s particularly attractive to those who appreciate guided commentary and a small-group experience that allows for better interaction and viewing opportunities. If you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience in Victoria with the convenience of everything included, this tour delivers.

• Arrive 20 minutes early at Sorrento Pier to check in and collect gear.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel; wetsuits and snorkel gear are provided.
• Wear or bring sun protection—hat and sunscreen—as you’ll be on the water.
• Be prepared for possible crowding at the start; patience will improve the experience.
• The tour typically runs in the morning and afternoon, so choose a time that suits your plans.
• Cancellation is free if you notify 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travel plans.
• The duration is about two hours, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring Sorrento or nearby areas.

Compared to other wildlife experiences, this tour balances adventure and comfort. Snorkeling with seals in a protected bay is a rare opportunity, especially in a setting that caters to safety and educational value. The all-inclusive nature means you won’t be surprised by additional costs, and the emphasis on guides’ expertise ensures you get meaningful insights into the marine environment.

While some travelers mention feeling crowded initially, many appreciate the up-close encounters and the stunning scenery. The reviews reflect a high degree of satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.8/5 from 18 reviews, emphasizing the memorable nature of the trip.

In essence, this Snorkeling with Seals tour from Sorrento offers a rare chance to see native Australian seals in their natural environment, combined with a scenic boat ride and a satisfying lunch. It’s a value-packed experience that rewards curiosity and love of marine wildlife. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge turn this into a comfortable and informative outing suitable for most travelers.

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging wildlife adventure, with the bonus of stunning coastal scenery and friendly guides, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and those new to snorkeling who want an accessible but memorable marine encounter.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the cruise, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, marine park fees, and a lunch with snacks and drinks.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately two hours, including the cruise, snorkeling, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, and sun protection. Wetsuits and snorkel gear are provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience is generally family-friendly, especially for those comfortable in water and eager to see wildlife.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see Australian fur seals, dolphins, rays, and possibly other marine creatures.

Is the experience crowded?
Some reviews mention initial crowding at the start, but guides help manage the group, and the seals are curious and approachable.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes! Reviewers like Emma praise the guides’ enthusiasm and insights, which add significantly to the experience.

When is the best time to go?
Tours are generally available in the morning and afternoon. Booking early is advisable to avoid peak times.

What if I don’t snorkel often?
The full wetsuit and gear provided help keep you warm and comfortable, and guides support beginners, making it accessible for most.

To sum it up, this Sorrento boat and snorkeling tour offers a fantastic opportunity to experience native Australian marine wildlife in a relaxed, well-organized setting. It’s perfect if you want a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and comfortable amenities—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a small group, it promises a memorable glimpse into the bay’s vibrant marine life with friendly guides and a focus on fun and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here: