From the rugged cliffs and blowhole at the Nobbies to the spectacular rock formations at the Pinnacles to the turquoise waters around Cape Woolamai, this area possesses endless backdrops for selfies, great places for exploring and many an opportunity for picturesque beach walks. While a visit to any of the island’s beaches never disappoints, there is another way to take in the splendour that abounds on these shores. Since December 2014, Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tours have been giving visitors an unprecedented view of the coastline, as well as allowing them to get clos
er than ever to the renowned Australian Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks.
Operating year-round, this 47 seat rigid-hulled inflatable boat has thrilled those on board, giving them a different perspective of the area’s stunning beauty from out at sea, while Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Environment rangers offer insightful commentary for those onboard.
The new 90 minute EcoBoat Adventure Tour has replaced the original one-hour tour, with visitors treated to an extended and even more unforgettable journey at the same price of only $85 per adult. A trip to Seal Rocks is always a spectacle to behold and the extra 30 minutes provides even greater opportunities for visitors to experience this up-close encounter with the seals, and other wildlife such as gannets, terns and even albatross, along with the spectacular scenery. For half the year, the Seals also have some special neighbours on Phillip Island as the short tailed Shearwaters return home after their long migration from Alaska to spend their summer here, feeding and breeding. These intriguing birds have been the inspiration for Phillip Island Nature Parks’ latest product offering, a one hour Shearwater Sunset Tour.
This tour offers guests the rare pleasure of seeing the Shearwaters as they fly against the postcard-esque backdrop of the Cape Woolamai sunset. Departing from San Remo and running every Saturday evening until early April, it is as suitable for a family as it is for a romantic evening with that special someone. The EcoBoat’s unique design allows you to get nice and close to the coastline as it navigates its way around the Cape’s Pinnacles, rising majestically out of the ocean. You will be in awe of the spectacular scenery and the unique view of the shearwaters as they fly around you and over the top of you, bound for their clifftop rookeries. At just $65 per adult this tour is bound to leave you with some unforgettable memories.
For those with a bit more time on their hands, the Island Discovery Tour is a great way to spend three hours embarking on a journey of discovery and exploration, taking in many of the treasures of Phillip Island’s coastline and spotting its unique and varied wildlife. The EcoBoat’s experienced Skipper will plot your course subject to daily conditions, but some possible highlights of the journey include Pyramid Rock, views of the GP track from the water, the Pinnacles, Cat Bay and many more. Cruising under the Phillip Island Bridge gives visitors a great opportunity to see dolphins, sting rays and even sharks. The Island Discovery Tour includes a gourmet picnic lunch prepared by the chefs at the Churchill Island Cafe.
The EcoBoat’s draught and ability to anchor just about anywhere means you will have the chance to enjoy your lunch at a surprise location, which could be on one of the island’s many amazing beaches, or possibly even across the waters of Western Port on one of the stunning, secluded beaches on French Island. This tour will operate on weekends between late November and early April, and at only $130, this exciting three-hour boat tour is bound to be a hit with locals and visitors alike. All EcoBoat tours include commentary from one of Phillip Island Nature Parks’ expert Education and Interpretation rangers who offer valuable information, and know these shores as well as anyone.
