Dolphin and Seal snorkel adventure from Sorrento

Taking part in a dolphin and seal snorkel adventure around the Mornington Peninsula offers a unique chance to see some of Australia’s most captivating sea creatures in their natural habitat. This tour, operated by Moonraker Dolphin Swims, promises a 3-hour journey filled with wildlife sightings, scenic cruising, and plenty of opportunities to swim alongside wild bottlenose dolphins and Australian fur seals. For anyone craving an authentic marine experience in a beautiful setting, this outing could be a highlight of your Australian trip.

We particularly appreciate the chance to get close to resident dolphins and seals, often the stars of this cruise. The guides’ expertise and friendly attitude make the often unpredictable wildlife encounters more engaging. Plus, the onboard lunch or morning tea adds a welcome touch of comfort to the adventure. However, it’s worth noting that since this is a wildlife tour, sightings are never guaranteed. If seeing dolphins is a priority, it’s good to be prepared for the possibility of a no-show, although repeat visits are offered free within 30 days.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in the water, as well as those keen on exploring Australia’s marine life in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a memorable, nature-focused adventure will find this tour appealing.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are the main draw, especially dolphins and seals.
• The scenic cruising provides stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.
• The guides’ knowledge enhances understanding and engagement.
• The tour offers flexibility with morning or afternoon departure options.
• No guarantee of dolphin sightings, but free re-booking within 30 days if missed.
• The group size is limited to 30 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

What to Expect on Your Snorkel Adventure from Sorrento

The tour begins at Sorrento Pier, where you’ll check in, collect your snorkeling gear, and board the luxury boat, Moonraker. This vessel combines comfort with space to relax and observe the scenery before getting into the water. As you leave the pier, the guides will explain the plan, safety procedures, and help you familiarize yourself with the equipment. The cruise into Port Phillip Bay is a gentle, scenic journey, offering you views of the coastline and a chance to settle into the marine adventure ahead.

Seals First: Close Encounters with Inquisitive Marine Mammals

The first stop is among the colonies of Australian fur seals in shallow waters. This part of the tour is especially praised for its up-close encounters, with seals of all ages showing curiosity and playfulness. As one reviewer describes, “It was an amazing time swimming with the seals closely in the sea. Their movements are beautiful.” Watching these natural actors in their environment creates memories that last a lifetime.

Lunch and Rest on Board

After interacting with the seals, you’ll return to the boat for a lunch or morning tea. The onboard meal is a good opportunity to recharge before the main event: swimming with dolphins. The crew ensures everyone is energized and ready for the next phase, which involves locating the resident dolphins of Port Phillip Bay.

Searching for Dolphins: Patience and Respect

Once the guides have pinpointed where the dolphins are, they’ll explain the best way to approach them, emphasizing the importance of not disturbing their natural behavior. The actual encounter involves small groups of about 10 people, floating on the surface, listening for the dolphins’ squeaks and whistles. When the pod is ready, the guides give the signal, and everyone slides into the water to enjoy the view.

The dolphins’ behavior is highly variable—sometimes they swim around you endlessly, other times they pass briefly. As one reviewer notes, “Each encounter is totally unique; sometimes they will swim around us endlessly, other times they will glide past for a look and continue swimming.” The guides’ knowledge helps ensure wildlife is not disturbed, making this a respectful, authentic interaction.

The Possibility of a Repeat Visit

Since these creatures are wild, there’s always a chance you might not see dolphins on your trip. But the tour offers a 30-day re-visit window at no extra cost if you’re unlucky. This policy underscores the tour’s commitment to wildlife welfare and realistic expectations.

The Practicalities: Group Size, Duration, and Price

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour strikes a good balance between intimacy and shared adventure. The cost of around $150.62 per person reflects the value of a half-day marine experience, including equipment, guides, and the boat ride. While it’s not cheap, the chance to swim with wild seals and dolphins in their natural environment** offers a memorable experience that many travelers find worth the price.

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it manageable even for those with limited time. Departure times are flexible, with options in the morning or afternoon, which helps fit into diverse itineraries.

Safety and Accessibility

Participants need to have basic swimming ability, and children under 5 are not permitted in the water. The tour is weather-dependent, with safe conditions essential for wildlife interactions. This means that if the weather isn’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, but full refunds are offered if so.

Reviews: Real Experiences

Some travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, describing their day as “fantastic,” with one noting that “the crew was also great.” Others, like Vicki, mention the hot day and waiting times, which can detract from the experience. The guide’s professionalism and their ability to manage expectations are crucial, especially since wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This snorkel adventure is ideal for nature lovers who want a broader view of Australian marine life beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s perfect for those with good swimming skills who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in open water. Families with older children, small groups, or solo travelers eager for a natural wildlife encounter will all find something to love here.

It’s worth mentioning that if your main goal is guaranteed dolphin sightings, you might need to manage expectations or explore other options. But if you’re open to the unpredictable thrill of wildlife watching, this tour offers genuine moments of connection with seals, dolphins, and the stunning scenery of the Mornington Peninsula.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Dolphin and Seal Snorkel Adventure offers a real chance to see wild Australian marine animals in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authenticity and are willing to accept the unpredictability of wildlife encounters. The guides’ expertise, combined with the beautiful backdrop of Port Phillip Bay, makes this a worthwhile outing for adventure seekers and marine enthusiasts alike.

While the price point might be a consideration, the experience of swimming alongside resident dolphins and seals in their natural environment makes it a memorable investment. The onboard amenities, flexibility in scheduling, and the policy of free re-visits within 30 days add to its appeal.

If you’re dreaming of a hands-on encounter with Australia’s marine life in a safe, well-organized setting, this tour is a solid choice. Just keep your expectations realistic, pack your sense of adventure, and be ready to enjoy some of the most beautiful and lively waters of the Mornington Peninsula.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 5 years old are not permitted in the water. Basic swimming ability is required for participation.

What happens if I don’t see dolphins?
Since dolphins are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed. However, if you don’t see them, you’re welcome to return within 30 days at no extra cost.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including cruising, marine interactions, and onboard meals.

Can I choose a morning or afternoon departure?
Yes, the tour offers a choice of morning or afternoon departure times to fit your schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers boat transportation, snorkeling equipment, guides, and a meal or morning tea onboard.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, safe weather conditions are necessary. Tours may be canceled or rescheduled if the weather isn’t suitable, with full refunds offered in such cases.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, which fosters a more personal experience.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, participants need basic swimming skills, and those uncomfortable in open water might find this challenging.

How do I book?
You can book through the tour provider’s website or via Viator, with confirmation usually within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into the marine life of Port Phillip Bay, blending scenic cruising with the thrill of wildlife observation. It’s a great choice for travelers eager to connect with nature in a memorable, respectful way.