eco boat adventure tour phillip island

Wild Oceans EcoBoat Adventures

Experience the thrill of a high speed 90 minute boat ride along Phillip Island’s rugged and spectacular coastline with Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tour and enjoy an up close encounter with one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals.

The Wild Oceans EcoBoat is a world class rigid hulled inflatable boat (RIB) with seating for up to 47 people. Powered by four whisper-quiet outboard engines, the EcoBoat skims across the top of the water on its way to Seal Rocks, home to about one quarter of Australia’s largest fur seal population.

On any given day, you can expect to see up to about 8,000 seals on the two rocky islands that make up Seal Rocks. Watch the antics of the playful seals as they surround the boat, ducking their heads in and out of the water.

The EcoBoat operates year round with daily departures of the 90 minute Adventure Tour. Tours depart from the Cowes jetty.

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Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tour

13 The Esplanade, Victoria 3922 Australia

• Independent

“Experience the thrill of a high speed boat ride along Phillip Island’s rugged and spectacular coastline with Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tour and enjoy an up-close”

Experience the thrill of a high speed 90 minute boat ride along Phillip Island’s rugged and spectacular coastline with Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tour and enjoy an up-close encounter with one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals. The Wild Oceans EcoBoat is a world-class rigid hulled inflatable boat (RIB) with seating for up to 47 people. Powered by four whisper-quiet outboard engines, the EcoBoat skims across the top of the water on its way to Seal Rocks, home to about one quarter of Australia’s largest fur seal population. On any given day, you can expect to see up to about 8,000 seals on the two rocky islands that make up Seal Rocks. Watch the antics of the playful seals as they surround the boat, ducking their heads in and out of the water. Your experienced captain puts the EcoBoat through its paces on your way back to Cowes with a bit of wave-running, and perhaps even a 'donut' or two. The EcoBoat operates year-round with daily departures of the 90 minute Adventure Tour. Tours depart from the Cowes jetty.

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• Nov 27, 2020

Phillip Island Seal-watching Ecoboat Tour

If you are a fan of seals, marine animals, or nature, this tour in Phillip Island is definitely a must-go!

Starting from Cowes jetty in Phillip Island itself, the Phillip Island Seal Watching Ecoboat Tour is approximately 1.5hrs long, where the seal-watching itself lasts approximately 30 minutes. For sure, this is not to say that the boat ride is just some boring ride that takes you from point A to point B.

The captain of the boat is extremely experienced, and the boat itself is a high-powered one, which can make turns quickly in a safe manner. This means that the boat ride itself is adventurous and full of fun. :)

On the day of the tour, you will first head to the tourist centre just by Cowes jetty to register and check-in for the tour. You will then be informed to slowly make your way down to the jetty and wait for the tour to start.

Once at the jetty, it is quite hard to miss the boat, as there is usually only one, and you can also see excited people waiting to board it! Once in the boat, the captain will first describe the sea conditions for that day and explain if it might be choppy, or simply calm. It is important to take his words seriously and listen attentively. Fasten the seat belts tightly, and never stand up until the captain says it is safe to do so. You will also be accompanied by two rangers, who complements the captain to give the tour.

After the safety briefing is completed, the boat will slowly move away from the jetty, to hit the seas. Be warned though, that in times of choppy seas, the front end of the boat will face the most impact, while the back of the boat is more stable. This means that if you are looking for more fun and excitement, simply sit at the front of the boat! Not to worry too much though, as we saw a young child (5 years old?) sit in the middle section, with no hints whatsoever, of motion sickness!

Once the boat hits high speeds, enjoy the light bumps as the boat cuts through the seas. This takes place for some 10 to 15 minutes, as we enjoyed the winds blowing against our faces. Of course, the boat changes course suddenly and we find ourselves turning to the right. Very surprisingly, we did not feel like we were being thrown about. Rather, we still felt upright, even as the boat suddenly changed course again to the left. That is not to say that it was not exciting. Rather, we did not feel like vomiting despite the sudden turns!

As we slowed to a stop, the ranger gave us an explanation of how penguins treat the island as their home, and how their numbers initially dwindled due to human activity on the island. After the authorities noticed this drop in number and took action to address this, they finally noticed a gradual and consistent increase in penguin numbers again. Now, the penguins have all returned, and are happy to call Phillip Island their home again.

As the boat set off again, we could notice how the seas were considerably rougher. Not thinking too much, we anticipated seeing the seals in a short while. The bumps started getting harder, and just as we noticed it, we went airborne! And back onto the surface, with a huge bump! Excitement overload! The captain expertly slowed down the boat when necessary, and pressed on again, just to give us sufficient fun without the need for a vomit bag. Before we knew it, airborne again! What fun! The rough seas definitely helped in creating the fun, although full credit must be given to the captain for managing the boat through the seas so well.

However, for those who might not take too well to rough seas and too much excitement, there is little need to worry. Simply let the rangers know in advance before the boat moves off from the jetty, and they will take note accordingly. The rangers will in fact inform passengers on the potentially rough seas as well. So, you can let them know at this point that you are afraid of the seas getting too rough. Of course, if you prefer to, take a motion sickness pill before the boat ride. This will help make sure you have a great time and not fear you might vomit! Just a note though, that vomit bags are provided too!

Next stop, we were taken to an area just off The Nobbies Centre, an area on the island that was built to allow people to spot seals. We were then informed that the caves just off the island are actually homes for the seals to take shelter, and how the caves and indeed, the island itself, are natural homes for the seals.

Finally, we were brought to the seals. Hundreds, if not thousands, of seals, lay resting on the rocks in the afternoon sun. Doing nothing, but chilling and resting. The rangers told us that those seals are usually the older ones, while the younger seals preferred to swim in the seas, enjoying the water against their skins. Up close, we see a pup of seals swimming and seemingly wave at us. Of course, we waved back, not knowing any better. We found out that the waving action was actually to cool themselves down, much like how humans slip a leg out from the warm blanket when we sleep to cool our body down. Interesting fun fact!

Time flies when you are enjoying yourself. Before long, it is time to head back to the shore already. About an hour has already passed. What?! Yeap. As we started heading back to the shore, the captain continued to be a wonder, keeping his passengers calm in the rough seas. Sure, there were still a few bumps here and there, but we have already become experienced seamen by now, and feared no waves! Oh, wait, here come the sudden turns again! Even the rangers were enjoying it, and joked and laughed with us as the captain expertly sliced through the seas. The captain also performed for us, twisting and turning the boat about to get our adrenaline pumping, and everyone on the boat, young and old, thoroughly enjoyed the ride.

Soon, the jetty was in sight. And yet, there is always time for more excitement. The captain gave us a final show, as we turned about with the boat. After it ended, we gave the captain a well-deserved round of applause for thrilling us to no end. Kudos!

In a short 1.5hrs, the tour has come to an end. It was fun, thrilling, informative, and amazing, to have witnessed so many seals at their home, and to be given such an unforgettable boat ride. For sure, we absolutely enjoyed this tour of seal-watching!

Daily departure timings: 3 pm and 5 pm (currently not operating)

Tour price: -

Tour information: https://www.penguins.org.au/attractions/ecoboat-tours/

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Phillip Island Nature Parks EcoBoat Adventures

This is a boat trip that is not only about glorious views, nature, getting up close to seals – but it’s also a wild ride.

When :  daily at 3pm, over summer there are more tour times, check here for times and to book.

Where :  Departs (and returns to) Cowes Jetty.  In rougher conditions, the boat departs from Rhyll Jetty (you will be contacted via mobile if this is the case)

Cost :  Adult $85, child $65, family $235 (2 adults, 2 children)

The EcoBoat is a world-class RIB (rig-hulled inflatable boat).  It carves through the rough water along the coast of Phillip Island easily – and our driver wasn’t afraid to take us for a little surf when we found a big enough wave.  The kids loved it – they squealed their heads off and I admit it was a bit of a thrill when on a few occasions we got a bit of air!

The journey is the perfect amount of time to take in the view of the beautiful coastline along Phillip Island as you travel from Cowes to the Nobbies – looking across to Somers and Point Leo.  The trip is about twenty minutes, at this point we went so close to the Nobbies Blow Hole I almost wondered if we were going to go inside it.  The great thing about the EcoBoat is that it’s really manoeuvrable and so we were able to get up close to the rocks.

Just behind the Nobbies is Seal Rock – home to Australia’s fur seal colony.  The seals happily exist here free from predators (other than the very rare shark – although the rocks make it difficult for sharks – so on the rock they live very happily).  At about 18 months of age the females have their first pup – and for the next 30 years they call the rock home and have a pup every year (phew).  The males only live on the rock for a few months of the year.. come September they return for breeding season and then when the babies arrive in Jan they are goneski – we saw a couple.

As part of the tour there are a couple of ranger guides on board who provide insights into the habitat, wildlife, workings of the Phillip Island Nature Parks and answer any questions.  At one point they even handed out barley sugars (it was a particularly rough day, so maybe that was to keep our tummies happy?).

When we arrived at Seal Rock loads of the seals came out to say hello – there were so many swimming around in the water it was a bit like seal soup!  And they move so quickly – my photo’s don’t really do it justice.  We spent about 20 minutes pulled up at Seal Rock (FYI you don’t disembark the boat) watching the seals play – moving about the boat for a better view.  And before you see the seals… you smell the rock!  We did sort of get used to it, but not sure I’d want to be one of the park rangers who sleeps out on the rock during summer doing research…

This tour was the perfect balance of education, up close encounter and thrill seeking all wrapped into one for the kids.  We sat up the front of the boat (where it’s roughest) and stayed dry.. I noticed the passengers down the back did get a bit splashed on our return trip when the captain took us for a bit of a joy ride across some of the bigger waves!  Oh and don’t worry there are seatbelts.  Oh and there is an onboard toilet (not sure I’d want to go after a 7-year-old boy in those choppy waters, just saying).

For our day of fun on Phillip Island this was definitely the experience I was most looking forward to – and surprisingly at the end of the day when we asked the kids what they enjoyed most… the resounding and very enthusiastic yes was for the EcoBoat trip.  Five stars EcoaBoat.

We also tried out the Phillip Island Go-Karts  and you can read about the whole days adventure here .

Disclaimer:  Meetoo travelled to Phillip Island in September 2015 as guests of Phillip Island Nature Parks.  All views are our own.  All details were correct at time of publishing.

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Phillip Island Seal Cruise

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• Seal Cruise

We've partnered with Wildlife Coast Cruises to bring you this spectacular 2-hour coastal cruise to visit one of Australia's largest colony of Fur Seals, at Seal Rocks off Phillip Island. Book your tickets .

Experience an up-close encounter with thousands of seals at one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. The boat drifts within meters of the seals, enabling you to witness them in their natural environment first hand. It is impossible not to be captivated by these naturally playful and inquisitive animals, as they regularly approach the boat for a closer look at you. Along the way, you’ll be enthralled by the beautiful coastline and learn all about the history of Phillip Island’s western shoreline.

• An average of 5000+ seals sighted up close
• Variety of seabirds & regular dolphin sightings
• Educational commentary
• Historical sights
• Warm undercover viewing
• Morning or Afternoon Tea
• Tea & Coffee
• Leaving from Cowes Jetty, The Esplanade, Cowes VIC 3922
• 2.00pm, boarding 15mins prior
• Extra cruises in summer peak: 11.00am and 4.30pm (26 December to 31 January - please check availability)

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• Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour

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Phillip island penguin parade ultimate eco tour.

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1 Day Phillip Island Ultimate Eco Tour

Explore three of Victoria’s wildlife and nature gems. The world-renowned Phillip Island Penguin Parade, hand-feeding kangaroos & wallabies at Moonlit Sanctuary and the spectacular coastline of Phillip Island.

• Infant $145

Tour Information

• Experience the magic of Moonlit Sanctuary & see wombats, koalas, kangaroos, dingoes & much more!
• Opportunity for close Koala encounter at Moonlit Sanctuary (additional expense applies – $30pp)
• Cape Woolamai surf beach, get sand between your toes (time permitting in winter months) See the Nobbies Centre and coastal boardwalks
• View the amazing Penguin Parade at dusk. See these fascinating creatures in their natural environment

What's included

• Discover the enchantment of Moonlit Sanctuary and meet cute creatures like wombats, koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, and more!
• If you like, you can get up close to a koala at Moonlit Sanctuary for an extra cost of $30 per person.
• Feel the sand beneath your feet at Cape Woolamai surf beach, depending on time (especially during winter).
• Visit the Nobbies Centre and stroll along coastal boardwalks.
• Experience the mesmerizing Penguin Parade at dusk and see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
• All transfers in air-conditioned comfort
• Moonlit Sanctuary entrance fees
• General admission entry into Penguin Parade
• Friendly and informative tour guide
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board

Options (Must be pre-booked)

Make your Phillip Island Experience EPIC!

• Penguin Plus (PP) Exclusive viewing area & private boardwalk ($55)
• Underground Viewing (PU) Enjoy up-close viewing of the Little penguins in an underground viewing window – Limited to 70 guests ($65)
• We start our journey from Melbourne and head to the impressive Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, known for its numerous awards. Here, you’ll go on a guided tour to see a wide variety of Australian animals. You can even feed kangaroos and wallabies and, if you like, hold a koala for an extra fee.
• Next, we’ll arrive on Phillip Island and visit the stunning Cape Woolamai Surf Beach along the island’s southern coast. This beach faces the powerful ocean waves, and you might spot dolphins or seals playing in the water.
• We’ll then make our way to the southwest tip of Phillip Island to see the Nobbies and Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks.
• Finally, we’ll head to Summerland Beach, the highlight of our trip. Here, you’ll witness the incredible sight of hundreds of Little Penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling across the beach to their burrows in the sand dunes. Before we head back to Melbourne, you can also explore the fantastic new Visitor Centre to learn more about these fascinating birds.
• Clothing for warm and cool conditions
• Water bottle, warm / rain jacket for winter
• Camera (please note that photography is not permitted after dark at the penguin parade)

Departs Daily

10am-12pm (seasonal)

Description

We kick off our adventure in Melbourne and head to the award-winning Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park. There, you’ll join a guided tour to discover a wide range of Australian animals. You can even feed kangaroos and wallabies, and if you’re interested, you have the option to hold a koala for an extra fee. Once we reach Phillip Island, we’ll visit the stunning Cape Woolamai Surf Beach on the island’s southern coast. This beach faces the powerful ocean waves, and it’s not unusual to spot dolphins or seals playing in the nearby waters. Next, we’ll make our way to the southwest tip of Phillip Island to see the Nobbies and Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks. The grand finale of our trip takes us to Summerland Beach. Here, you’ll witness the remarkable sight of hundreds of Little Penguins emerging from the ocean and waddling across the beach to their burrows in the sand dunes. Before we head back to Melbourne, you can explore the impressive new Visitor Centre to learn more about these charming birds. 

More Information

Moonlit Sanctuary reserves the right to cancel any encounter or presentation at any time, for reasons relating to animal welfare. Koala Encounters will be cancelled when local temperature exceeds 35 degrees celsius.

Flexible Fare

Flexible fare – no cancellation fees apply for changes up to 24 hours before your tour departure time.

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• 10/167 Beavers Road, Northcote, Vic 3070, Australia
• (+61 3) 9629 3364
• [email protected]

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About Us – Ocean Adventures: Discover the Thrills of Phillip Island Welcome to Ocean Adventures, your gateway to exhilarating jet boat tours on the breathtaking Phillip Island. We are thrilled to take you on an unforgettable journey through the pristine waters surrounding this natural wonder. Prepare to embark on a thrilling voyage that merges scenic beauty with heart-pounding excitement, all while prioritizing your safety and comfort.

Our Mission

At Ocean Adventures, our mission is to provide an unparalleled jet boat tour experience that showcases the beauty, diversity, and raw power of the ocean surrounding Phillip Island. We are dedicated to offering thrilling adventures that create lasting memories while fostering a deep appreciation for the marine environment and its inhabitants. Safety, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction are at the core of everything we do.

Why Choose Ocean Adventures?

Exhilarating Jet Boat Rides: Hold onto your hats as our state-of-the-art jet boats accelerate, spin, and skim across the water’s surface, delivering an adrenaline rush like no other. Our skilled captains expertly navigate the waves, ensuring a heart-pounding adventure that will leave you exhilarated. Spectacular Scenery: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Phillip Island’s coastline. Get up close and personal with iconic landmarks, stunning cliffs, and hidden coves of Cape Woolamai that can only be truly appreciated from the water. Expert Crew: Our experienced and certified crew members are not only skilled navigators but also passionate about marine life and the island’s unique ecosystem. They are here to provide you with an educational and engaging experience, sharing their knowledge and insights about the local environment. Family-Friendly Fun: Ocean Adventures is the perfect choice for families seeking an exciting yet safe adventure. Our tours cater to all age groups, ensuring that everyone on board has a blast while also learning about the wonders of the sea. Environmental Stewardship: We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of Phillip Island for generations to come. Our tours adhere to strict eco-friendly practices, minimizing our impact on the environment and promoting responsible tourism.