-
Port Phillip Ferries is not just a passenger ferry service. We connect people and experiences, and we’re on a mission to transform daily travel between Melbourne and the Geelong and Bellarine regions, one cruise at a time. So forget the traffic and leave the car behind to set sail on an adventure with Port Phillip Ferries.
- Docklands to/from Portarlington (70 mins duration) – details click here
- Docklands to/from Geelong (Direct 95 mins duration) – details click here
- Geelong to/from Portarlington (40 mins duration) – details click here
- Special event cruises (1-2 hours) including discovery cruises, music cruises, scenic cruises – details click here
For detailed destination information, please click the following links;
- Portarlington (Bellarine region) click here
- Geelong click here
- Docklands click here
- Bikes & walking trails click here
- Ferry berth locations & nearby parking click here
-
All tickets must be pre-purchased. The easiest way to book is ONLINE click here.
Docklands ticket sales location
During opening hours at the Melbourne Ferry Terminal, credit/debit card ticket sales are permitted via the Port Phillip Ferries customer experience team until 40 minutes prior to departure. (This excludes group ticket sales of 10 or more people).
Geelong/Portarlington ticket sales locations
During opening hours, cash ticket sales are permitted via the Portarlington Post Office, or can be arranged by appointment with Portarlington Grand Hotel, Helloworld Travel Drysdale, Geelong West & Waurn Ponds.
Purchases must be finalised at least 40 minutes prior to departure times.
This is to ensure we can manage the number of people on board due to limited and allocated seating and to ensure the boarding process is effective and safe.
To comply with vessel safety requirements, we require full passenger names, telephone contact and or email address.
When boarding, you can present your pre-purchased ticket via your electronic device or in a printed version.
-
To purchase a return ticket you will need to select two one-way tickets.
- Select your outbound trip and Add to cart.
- At the checkout, you will then be able to select your return trip.
-
We certainly do accept companion cards.
We suggest calling our Customer Care line on (03) 9514 8959 or emailing info@portphillipferries.com.au to add a companion traveller to an existing booking.
The details that the customer experience team member will need include;
- The Port Phillip Ferries booking reference
- Companion card holder full name
- Companion card number
- Companion’s First name. Family name and a telephone contact number.
-
This ferry is a privately owned and operated business and it is not currently linked to the public transport system.
-
For most concessions, you will need to have one of the following cards:
- Centrelink Health Care Card (cards issued in the name of a child are not eligible)
- Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card
- Veterans’ Affairs Pensioner Concession Card
- Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card for all conditions.
- Seniors cards
For more information please visit > https://services.dhhs.vic.gov.au/about-concessions
-
Port Phillip Ferries provide group discounts to 25 or more passengers. Details about group bookings can be found by clicking here
If you wish to charter a vessel for a corporate event or occasion please click here for details.
-
All children 12 years of age or under must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian while on board the ferry or within the ferry docking area. Children must be 13 years of age or older to travel on the ferry unaccompanied.
-
Any decision to cancel or delay the scheduled ferry service may be as a result of adverse weather conditions and/or technical failures. Any decision to cancel a service will be made to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew, and the vessel and the likely impact on passenger comfort.
Port Phillip Ferries update our twitter feed and website page click here with the latest service announcements, delays, or cancellations. If you are a regular passenger or have an upcoming booking please follow this feed so you have the latest information.
In the unlikely event of a schedule change or service cancellation to an existing booking, passengers will be notified via email or SMS alert.
Passengers impacted by ferry service cancellation booked directly with Port Phillip Ferries on a general ticket will have a choice of credit for future travel within three years or, if requested in writing within 30 days of service cancellation, a refund of the original ferry ticket value. Multi-trip pass holders will be refunded directly to their designated Multi-trip pass.
-
General tickets are non-refundable / non-transferable. Outside 48 hours of your original travel date, you can cancel your ticket via your emailed booking confirmation (refer to the highlighted image below). Alternatively, our customer experience team may approve date changes if contacted at info@portphillipferries.com.au or by calling 03 95148959.
-
As a measure apart of Port Phillip Ferries COVID19 safety response if you are feeling unwell, please don’t travel.
Effective 9 December 2020; Should the circumstances of your health change between the time of ticket purchase and date of travel, you can obtain a credit by contacting our customer service on (03) 9514 8959 or info@portphillipferries.com.au up until the time of service departure.
-
Boarding Opens: 20 minutes prior to departure and Boarding Closes: 3 minutes prior to departure. If you are travelling with a bike please also allow extra boarding time to load and secure it.
As we are a public ferry service we are unable to hold vessels for late passengers. Failure to adhere to boarding times may result in you missing your cruise. If you miss your booked service, you are not entitled to a refund, date, or time change. Ferry tickets are designated to a date, time and destination to ensure we maintain safety and comfort of all passengers.
Click Here for alternative travel suggestions if you have missed your service.
-
In line with the current Victorian Government Roadmap, public transport operators do not require passenger proof of COVID-19 vaccination. However, this position is subject to change and is something Port Phillip Ferries will monitor closely and adhere to as the Victorian Government advice changes.
As public transport operators, Port Phillip Ferries can continue to take bookings and welcome people on board our ferry services. Our travel partners, including but not limited to restaurants, attractions, accommodation providers and tour operators, may require proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon booking or entry. For further information, please verify with each operator or visit the Victorian Government COVID-19 website https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/
Port Phillip Ferries will continue the high level of COVID-19 safety protocols in place since the beginning of the pandemic. These include contactless ticketing, the mandatory wearing of face masks while onboard, social distanced seating and additional cleaning services before and after each service.
-
In line with Victorian Government announcements made on 21st September 2022, fitted face masks are no longer mandatory when travelling on public transport but are instead strongly recommended following the existing indoor mask recommendations.
Face masks remain a highly effective tool to help reduce transmission and protect the most at-risk members of the community. Port Phillip Ferries will continue to make masks available for passengers that request one and will provide additional cleaning of all high-touch surfaces with disinfectant before and after each service.
For further updates on COVID-19 visit www.portphillipferries.com.au/covid-19-update/
-
Bicycles are most welcome, and we do not currently charge for bicycles to come on board. Isn’t that spoketacular?!
We can only carry 20 bikes at a time on each vessel, so make sure to book in a rack to avoid disappointment. When selecting passenger type in your online booking you are also able to choose how many bikes you are travelling with. Please note Port Phillip Ferries do not take responsibility for passenger items including bikes and e-bikes.
- Please also allow extra boarding time to load and secure bikes. We recommend to be at boarding at least 20 minutes prior to departure.
- We recommend to take a ebike waterproof cover in the even there is splashback from seawater or rainwater.
-
Negative. Unfortunately, we cannot allow Vespas or motorbikes onboard our vessels – but we do accommodate wheelchairs and motorised mobility scooters on board our ferries for those with accessibility needs.
-
You betcha! Our gift cards are live and for sale. Woohoo. They can be purchased here or via the purple ‘Book’ button above our main menu.
- Gift Cards can be used as tender to purchase any Port Phillip Ferries operated product online. (This excludes third-party operated packages).
- Gift Cards are sent electronically via email to the recipient
- You can send the gift card along with a custom message once your purchase is confirmed
- Gift Cards are valid 3 years from date of purchase
-
To redeem, select Gift Card as a payment type during checkout and enter the gift card number. Please note Gift Cards are valid 3 years from date of purchase.
- Refer to the highlighted image below:
-
Guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome on board our vessels, provided you and your assistance animal carry the appropriate/valid accreditation to travel.
For details on what is deemed a valid accreditation visit Public Transport Victoria or click here
Other pets or animals are not permitted on board. Our vessel does not have the space or facilities to cater to animals, and the decision is made for the comfort of the pets and other passengers. We appreciate your understanding.
-
We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable travel experience for everyone on our ferry. To ensure the safety of passengers and the proper functioning of our bike racks, we have established the following bicycle policy:
Standard Size Bicycles Only:
- We welcome standard-size bicycles on board our ferry.
- Standard bicycles are those with typical dimensions that allow them to be securely placed in standard sized bike racks.
Oversized Bikes and Trikes:
- Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate oversized bicycles or tricycles on our ferry.
- Oversized bikes may not fit securely in our racks, leading to potential damage during the journey.
- If you try and board with an oversized bicycle or tricycle you may be refused travel by our Master.
Securing Bicycles Properly:
- The safety of our passengers and their belongings is our top priority.
- When boarding with your bicycles, hang your bike in the onboard bike rack at the rear of the vessel. The crew will secure all bikes before departure to prevent any movement or potential damage during the ferry ride.
- When travelling with your bike you are doing this at your own risk. PPF will not be responsible for any damages and or loss during transit.
Why the Restrictions?
- Oversized bikes or trikes may not fit into the designated racks, compromising the safety of both the bicycle and surrounding passengers.
- Proper securing of bicycles is essential to prevent accidents or damage during transit.
Plan Ahead:
- We encourage passengers to plan ahead and ensure their bicycles meet the standard size criteria for ferry travel.
- If you have any concerns about your bicycle’s eligibility, please contact our customer service in advance. The Master has the final say as to whether your bicycle fits within our specifications for travel.
Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to our bicycle policy. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable ferry experience for all.
-
Our vessels are equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating, please note that seating is not pre-allocated therefore, to obtain your desired location, we recommend to be at boarding at least 20 minutes prior to departure times.
You MUST pre-book a ticket ONLINE or via one of our retail outlets. No tickets will be sold at the vessel. This allows us to manage the seating capacity.
-
Port Phillip Ferries supports a smoke-free environment to assist in providing a safe and healthy experience for everyone. Smoking / Vaping is banned onboard vessels, near entrances and exits to the vessel as well as areas deemed to be hazardous.
-
Yes, socially distanced and responsible service of alcohol is available onboard at our licensed cafe. You can also purchase snacks, caffeine, juice or fizzy drink fix onboard at our café. Please note that onboard cafe does not accept cash payments. If you need further assistance with our current menu please email info@portphillipferries.com.au to obtain a copy.
-
Yes. Yes. Yes! 🎉
We have cafés onboard on both vessels, so you can get your coffee fix during the journey. Not to mention, we have other cold drinks and sweet and savoury snacks from the likes of Bellarine Smokehouse and Manzanillo olive grove.Please note that onboard cafe does not accept cash payments.
-
We have four toilets on board each vessel, all on the lower deck. We also have bathrooms that meet accessibility needs.
-
Yes. Passengers are more than welcome to bring prams on board. We have accessible areas on the bottom level on the ferry that will allow you to park or sit next to your pram during the journey.
-
If you believe you have lost property on the ferry, please email us at info@portphillipferries.com.au with the following details to log your item: full name, lost item, date of item lost, phone number.
The operations team will then be in touch only if that item was located. These emails will be monitored within business hours of Mon – Fri, 9 – 5 pm. If the item is located, it will be held at our office in Docklands for collection. Any unclaimed items will be donated to charity or disposed of responsibly after 60 days.
-
Port Phillip Ferries is proud to be partnering with Travellers Aid to support people who face barriers to access. If you have a mobility impairment, or disability or would like a companion to attend a day out, Travellers Aid can help. Our ferry terminal in Docklands is only a short distance from Southern Cross Station. A trained volunteer from Travellers Aid can be with you on your journey to assist you with buggy assistance to navigate Southern Cross Station, assistance with getting across to the ferry terminal and you also have the option of booking a companion for the day.
After you have secured a Travellers Aid companion, please make your Port Phillip Ferries booking directly by either booking on our website or by calling our Customer Care line on (03) 9514 8959.
To add Travellers Aid free companion to your booking please advise at the time of booking (online in the comments field or with our customer team member on (03) 9514 8959).
For existing Port Phillip Ferries bookings please email info@portphillipferries.com.au or call (03) 9514 8959 and advise;
- The Port Phillip Ferries booking reference
- If you would like to add a Travellers Aid companion to your booking.
Please note: Port Phillip Ferries crew will verify Travellers Aid details at the time of boarding. Travellers Aid must be pre-booked (where possible at least 72 hours prior to sailing).
-
Yes! We facilitate wheelchairs and motorised mobility scooters on board our ferries. This provides access to our café, bathrooms, and fabulous views on our lower deck. We use ramps to board our vessels and our crew are there to assist. Maximum weight restriction of 450kg and wheelchairs width is 800mm.
-
Guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome on board our vessels, provided you and your assistance animal carry the appropriate/valid accreditation to travel.
For details on what is deemed a valid accreditation visit Public Transport Victoria or click here
Other pets or animals are not permitted on board. Our vessel does not have the space or facilities to cater to animals, and the decision is made for the comfort of the pets and other passengers. We appreciate your understanding.
-
Yes! Our priority seats are red and are marked with signage for easy identification.
-
Portarlington:
There is ample all-day parking within close proximity to where we depart at Portarlington Pier. This parking is all free (huzzah!). For commuters wanting to park all day, we recommend parking in Henderson’s Reserve in front of the bowls club.Geelong:
The closest option to the ferry berth is Cunningham Pier Parking click here for details. Alternatively, you can head here for some information on parking options in Central GeelongDocklands:
Parking is available across the road at Marvel Stadium. Early Bird offer starts from $19* and can be Pre-booked. Alternatively, District Docklands East Car Park is a short 10-15 minute walk and they have an Early Bird offer starting from $10* click here (*All deals subject to availability and change). Another great website to checkout is Parkopedia, which provides a range of local parking locations click here. -
There is a great variety of winery tours, scenic tours, or tailored transport options for getting around the Bellarine Peninsula. Head to our ‘Destination – Portarlington’ page for a full rundown on what to do and how to get around. Have a super time!
-
We dock extremely close to the Free CBD tram network (Stop D3) and are only a short walk away from Southern Cross Station. Find more information on our location and access to transport click here.
-
We do have luggage racks where you can leave your luggage for the duration of the journey.
You cannot leave your luggage on the vessel if you are exiting the ferry. We do not have any luggage storage or holding space at either of our docks.
-
No, sorry. Port Phillip Ferries does not accept the transit of unaccompanied items on the ferry, including bags, luggage, or other freight.
