50 Reviews

For most of us, swimming with dolphins is a rare and magical experience, so who better to help you connect with these magnificent creatures than the people who've been making the introductions in Port Phillip Bay the longest? The Muir family established Polperro Dolphin Swims in 1986. Named after their classic, lovingly maintained boat, which is 25 years young, Polperro has led the bay... More

For most of us, swimming with dolphins is a rare and magical experience, so who better to help you connect with these magnificent creatures than the people who've been making the introductions in Port Phillip Bay the longest? The Muir family established Polperro Dolphin Swims in 1986. Named after their classic, lovingly maintained boat, which is 25 years young, Polperro has led the bay in environmentally responsible dolphin interactions. Judy Muir in particular has been tirelessly active in establishing and improving legislation controlling human interaction with wild marine animals, including dolphins.That's why passengers can't swim up to the bay's bottlenose dolphins, but rather hang on to long ropes trailing from the Polperro's stern, waiting for these often curious creatures to come to them. The rope, and the crew's careful training and supervision of passengers, mean that even non-swimmers can enjoy this exciting experience. People who are initially very timid and reticent about getting in the water leave enchanted by the experienceThe Polperro departs from Sorrento pier twice daily from October to April. Passenger numbers are strictly limited so everyone has ample opportunity to get wet, or watch dolphins at play from the deck. Reef and seal swims are often part of Polperro trips as well. These are also revelatory experiences, even for most locals, as the bay's rich aquatic life is a surprisingly well-kept secret.All gear, including wetsuits and snorkels, are provided, and the Polperro has change areas below deck. On chilly days her saloon cabin is warmly welcoming, as is the complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and delicious scones, freshly baked on board. They're the cherry on top of an inspiring, memorable experience, which saw Polperro enter the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in 2001, after winning the environmental tourism category three years running.”ADVANCED ECOTOURISM ACCREDIATIONWinner Skills Hub Training Award – Sustainability 2011Winner Sustainability Business Award 2011, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Finalist Best Business Award 2011, Frankston and Mornington PeninsulaVictorian Hall of Fame Environmental Tourism Award Less

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88 Reviews

Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island NatureParks includes Australia’s most popular wildlife attraction,the Penguin Parade, our Australian historic working farm,Churchill Island and our natural and wild koalas at KoalaConservation Centre—all located on one island.

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44 Reviews

Cuddle up to a koala, meet kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, and colourful birds at eco-tourism accredited Moonlit Sanctuary. Wander around our wetlands and bushfood garden, followed by a tasting experience. Evening visitors enjoy an award-winning, magical, personally guided tour by lantern light, meeting endangered species and other bush creatures. See bettongs, quolls, gliders and owls at... More

Cuddle up to a koala, meet kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, and colourful birds at eco-tourism accredited Moonlit Sanctuary. Wander around our wetlands and bushfood garden, followed by a tasting experience. Evening visitors enjoy an award-winning, magical, personally guided tour by lantern light, meeting endangered species and other bush creatures. See bettongs, quolls, gliders and owls at their most active. Less

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