Summer adventures with Port Phillip Ferries

LEAVE the car at home and head off on adventure with Port Phillip Ferries this summer.

From summer scenic cruises to a special New Year’s Eve sailing with front-row fireworks views, and seamless connections to the Portarlington Mussel Festival, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re chasing coastal adventures, happy hour sunsets or a carefree day trip from Melbourne to the Bellarine, Port Phillip Ferries is your ticket to a cruisey and affordable summer getaway.

Short summer scenic cruises – Kids go free

Running from December 27 to January 26, these 60- to 90-minute cruises are the perfect way to soak up the Port Phillip Bay from a whole new perspective.

Departing weekends from either Portarlington and Geelong, you can choose from a 2.00pm sailing for a leisurely afternoon, or a 5.30pm cruise and enjoy happy hour at the onboard bar. Best of all, kids go free, making this an affordable family outing with stunning coastal views and local landmarks along the way.

Details at portphillipferries.com.au/packages/summer-discovery-cruises

New Year’s Eve cruise – Ring in 2026 on the bay

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style aboard Port Phillip Ferries special 8.30pm sailing, departing from Portarlington Pier.

Timed perfectly for Portarlington’s early fireworks display, this one-off cruise offers front-row views as the bay lights up at about 9.30pm. Relax with a drink in hand and enjoy the best vantage point on the water, before returning to Portarlington at 10pm.

Family bundle discounts are available for this event service. For more, head to portphillipferries.com.au/new-years-eve-cruise

Portarlington Mussel Festival – Cruise to the coast

On Saturday, January 10, the Portarlington Mussel Festival returns with a feast of food, music and fun by the bay. Headlined by Elton Jack, the world’s number one Elton John tribute show, this iconic event celebrates the freshest mussels from Australia’s mussel capital.

Getting there is easy with two morning ferries from Docklands (10am and 10.40am) and two afternoon return sailings (4.30pm and 5pm).

These services sell out every year, so book early to secure your spot. Head to portphillipferries.com.au/events/portarlington-mussel-festivalSummer day trips – Melbourne to Portarlington or Geelong

Escape the city with Port Phillip Ferries’ ready-made day trip packages. From long waterfront lunches and winery tours to family-friendly outings and scenic cruises, everything is arranged for you.

Choose from packages with venues such as Portarlington Grand Hotel, Terindah Estate, Scotchmans Hill, Jack Rabbit, The Q Train and many more.

Prefer a slower day? Simply cruise over and relax on Portarlington’s pristine beach or stroll Geelong’s famous Eastern Beach promenade.

With return ferry travel sorted, it’s the simplest way to enjoy a carefree coastal escape. Head to portphillipferries.com.au/packages

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