Dolphin & Whale Cruise: Cape Woolamai & Phillip Island

Cape Woolamai's cliffs, migrating whales, feeding dolphins, and seal colonies in one morning on open water

A three-hour cruise from Phillip Island ventures past the sheer cliffs of Cape Woolamai and along the southern coastline to search for Humpback and Southern Right Whales during their annual migration, with dolphin pods, seals and seabirds including the Wandering Albatross regularly spotted. A live English-speaking guide leads the tour. Coffee, tea and afternoon refreshments are included. The vessel operates in open water where motion may affect those prone to seasickness, and departures depend on weather conditions.

Step-by-step itinerary

Dolphin and whale watching cruise

• Depart from Phillip Island
• Visit Cape Woolamai quarry area
• Learn history of Cape Woolamai
• Head into open water
• Search for dolphins and whales
• Observe seals and birdlife

The experience

The cruise departs to search the waters where migrating Humpback and Southern Right Whales pass through on their annual route. You'll head out past Cape Woolamai's distinctive cliffs (one of the island's most striking landmarks), while the guide shares the history of the quarry and the broader area. The three-hour journey keeps you on open water where the sightings happen, not confined to sheltered bays.

Dolphin pods regularly feed and play in these waters, and you'll watch for them alongside curious seals and a range of birdlife. The Wandering Albatross is frequently sighted in the area. What you see depends on the season and conditions. The whales are most active during their migration window, and the guide will explain what's moving through the water as you encounter it. Morning or afternoon tea is served onboard.

Weather determines whether the cruise runs, so contact the operator before you head out to confirm. Dress for open water conditions and wind. Infants and small children can travel in a pram or stroller, and service animals are welcome. The vessel's motion in open water can cause discomfort for those affected by seasickness.

What’s included

• Coffee and tea in the morning departure, or afternoon tea with the afternoon option.
• a live English-speaking guide throughout the cruise.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 3 Jun 2027

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Child (3 to 15 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 80

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Wildlife Coast Cruises

Is this one for you?The live English guide delivers the commentary, so you'll follow the history and wildlife information as it unfolds. The three-hour timeframe fits between other island activities without consuming a full day.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 15 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

When do the whales migrate past Phillip Island?

Humpback and Southern Right Whales pass through on their annual migration route during winter months. The guide will explain what species are active during your departure date and what to watch for as the boat moves through the water.

What's the difference between the morning and afternoon departures?

Both are three-hour cruises with the same route and wildlife search. Morning includes coffee and tea, while the afternoon option includes afternoon tea refreshments.

How rough is the water on this cruise?

The cruise operates in open water where vessel motion is normal. Those prone to seasickness should take precautions, and the operator recommends dressing appropriately for wind and spray.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Cruises are weather dependent. You should contact the tour operator before departure to confirm the cruise is running that day.