Locals to sail away to the Australian Open

TENNIS lovers from the Bellarine, Geelong and Surf Coast can gain exclusive access to this year’s Australian Open thanks to an exciting new partnership between Port Phillip Ferries and AO Travel.

The partnership will provide local residents with exclusive Australian Open ticket and ferry packages throughout the tournament.

Passengers can set sail from either Geelong or Portarlington and arrive in Docklands, a short walk from the Australian Open, just over an hour later.

Travellers can access premium seats at Rod Laver Arena throughout the second week of the tournament, including those at the men’s and women’s semifinal and finals matchups.

Overnight accommodation and access to the new AO Travel Lounge are also available at an extra cost.

The AO Travel Lounge One experience features a private room within the Western Lounge of John Cain Arena, views of Grand Slam Oval, Rod Laver Arena and the Melbourne Skyline, and a fully inclusive food and beverage package.

Port Phillip Ferries marketing manager Brad Wright said the new partnership with AO Travel was an exciting addition to its summer offering.

“We are thrilled to partner with AO Travel for the first time in 2024, providing residents of the greater Geelong region a fun and stress-free way of getting to the Australian Open, along with exclusive access to hard to get finals tickets.

“This partnership, in addition to our various other summer activities, including ferry connections between Geelong and Portarlington and the return of our Summer Discovery Cruises, gives locals plenty of reasons to jump aboard this summer.”

Packages start from $248 for day sessions and are inclusive of tennis tickets and ferry travel.

The Australian Open continues until January 28.

For all options and travel times, head to www.portphillipferries.com.au/events/australian-open-ferry-packages/