Cruise the wild southern tip of mainland Australia, where granite headlands plunge into teal Southern Ocean and colonies of fur seals, dolphins, and rare seabirds put on a show. Wilsons Promontory is one of Victoria's most protected and spectacular national parks — seen best from the water.
What to expect
A small, expert-guided vessel departs Tidal River and rounds the dramatic granite sea stacks of the Prom's southern reaches. Expect close encounters with Australian fur seal colonies hauled out on rocky outcrops, and pods of bottlenose dolphins surfing the wake. The guide narrates the ecology of this remarkable biosphere reserve throughout. Shearwaters, gannets, and white-bellied sea eagles are regularly spotted on the crossing.
Good to know
Wilsons Promontory is approximately 3 hours by road from Sale or Bairnsdale — best as a full-day excursion from a nearby tender port. Book well ahead as this is a bucket-list regional experience with limited capacity. Sturdy footwear and a windproof layer are essential; swells can be lively on the Southern Ocean.