Seal Watching Cruise, Phillip Island Wildlife Cruises

See thousands of Australian fur seals in their natural habitat at Australia’s largest fur seal colony on Phillip Island. Phillip Island Wildlife Cruises have a 2 hour coastal cruise from the port to Seal Rocks where you can witness and get up close to these amazing animals. It is one of Phillip Islands largest attractions and makes a great morning or afternoon out if you are visiting Phillip Island with your family.

Seal Watching Wildlife Cruise Phillip Island

Seal Rocks, Phillip Island

Phillip Island is located an hour and half south east of Melbourne and is a popular holiday location with lots of fun things to do for families.

Not too far from the famous Penguin Parade at Nobbies, around 2kms from the coastline of Phillip Island you can find Seal Rocks which is home to over 30,000 fur seals which is a quarter of the entire population of fur seals in Australia.

These fur seals are some of the biggest in the world and recognisable by the thick brown hair covering their bodies.

During October – December is breeding season where the numbers grow each year. Phillip Island Nature Parks conducts regular research programs and records the number of new pups each year.

Seal Watching Cruise, Phillip Island Wildlife Cruises

Phillip Island Wildlife Cruises have a variety of different cruises that run most of the year. The Seal Watching Cruise is one of the most popular for families and is such a great family activity. We took our kids who were 6 and 8 years old absolutely loved it.

This two-hour cruise departs from Cowes Jetty and travels to Seal Rocks where you can admire the stunning coastline of Phillip Island.

It is a stunning ride, and quite relaxing. Along the way the onboard guide provides commentary where you learn all about the history of Phillip Island’s shoreline.

Depending on the time of the year, you may be lucky to see some dolphins and whales in the wild. We visited in December and didn’t see any, however they are supposed to be easier to spot during the Winter months.

The cruise boat gets up close within metres of the seals so it is impossible to miss them, you are literally surrounded by them splashing around in the water, or lazing around on the rocks. It is such a unique experience to get to witness these spectacular animals in their natural environment.

You get around half an hour to watch and take photos if you like, before returning back to the jetty in Cowes. On the return journey back to Cowes, you are served a light afternoon tea (coffee/tea with some cake or biscuits).

Tour Inclusions

2 hour scenic cruise
Indoor or outdoor seating
Onboard commentary
Morning or afternoon tea
Children’s activities on request
Licenced bar

Tips for Visiting Phillip Island Wildlife Cruises

Book early, especially during the Summer months as they book out.
If you suffer from travel sickness, make sure to bring medication
Bring a jacket, even a light one in Summer as it can get windy in the evenings
Morning/Afternoon tea is light, so make sure to bring a few more snacks for the kids.
Don’t forget your camera!