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Geelong Day Trips from Portarlington

Return ticket package giving you approximately 3 hours in Geelong

Quick Details

Off Peak
Peak
Off peak pricing Monday-Friday > Peak pricing Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays Prices below are a return package
Adults Return ticket per person
A$20
A$26
Concession & Seniors Return ticket per person
A$18
A$24
Children 13-16 Return ticket per person
A$12
A$18
Children 4-12 Free with adult booking
Free
Free
Infants Under 4 years
Free
Free

Summer Geelong Day Trips

Kids Under 13 Go Free*

Available across the Summer School Holidays from Portarlington
Monday 18 December to Sunday 28 January (excluding Jan 13 2024)

If you and the crew are based in Portarlington for the holidays and are looking for something different to entertain the family, how about a day trip to Geelong? There’s so much happening in Geelong to entertain the whole family. From the Giant Sky Wheel and Historic Carousel to a swim or a picnic at the pristine Eastern Beach swimming area. It’s all a short walk from where the ferry docks and there are endless activities to keep the crew entertained all Summer.

A quick 40-minute ride each way on a state-of-the-art 35m catamaran allows you to explore the stunning Bellarine coastline from a whole new perspective. These day trips are available throughout the school holidays, offering a convenient way to visit Geelong and still have time for a few treats from our licensed cafe onboard.

Our modern ferries feature multiple indoor and outdoor seating areas, accessible onboard facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations. They are also easily accessible for all via our boarding ramps and they comfortably accommodate wheelchairs, motorised mobility scooters, and prams.

Timetable

Portarlington to Geelong Depart Arrive
Monday to Friday 11:00 am 11:40 am
Saturday & Sunday
12:10 pm 12:50 pm

 

Geelong to Portarlington Depart Arrive
Monday to Friday 3:00 pm 3:40 pm
Saturday & Sunday
4:00 pm 4:40 pm

Please Note: Between Monday 25 December – Friday 5 January all services will use the weekend timetable

Included in cruises

  • 40-minute cruise each way on a 35m start-of-art catamaran
  • Some Audio/Video onboard commentary
  • Chill-out music to get you in the mood
  • Licensed cafe open on board with a selection of food and drinks
  • Kids under 13 travel free* when pre-booked (limit 9 kids per booking)

* This offer is only available between Monday 18 December to Sunday 28 January out of Portarlington. Kids under 13 years of age must be accompanied by a supervising adult with at least one paid adult ticket and there is a limit of 9 free kids per booking. This offer is not available on standard ferry tickets outside this Geelong Day Trip package, or in conjunction with any other special events or cruises. To qualify for a free children’s ticket the child must be aged under 13 years at the time of purchase. This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other promotions and is subject to availability.

Family activities in Geelong

a couple of palm trees on the side of a road

The Waterfront is where you’ll depart your vessel and begin your day, and there’s no shortage of fun-filled activities to choose from. The first stop along the boardwalk is where you can ride the immaculately restored historic carousel dating back circa 1892 or do a loop aboard the popular Eastern Beach miniature Train, stopping at various locations on the way. But for the best view of the picturesque Corio Bay, take a thrilling ride on the Giant Sky Wheel.

The Bollards on the Boardwalk is another iconic feature of the Waterfront that can’t be missed! These statues of colourful characters represent historic events and people who shaped the city of Geelong. Everyone will also love the interactive element that they offer as they come to life and share their stories. Download the Activate Geelong Bollards Augmented Reality App and get ready for some fun!

Poppy Kettle Playground sits along the Waterfront near Cunningham Pier and is especially well-loved for its interactive Poppy Kettle water feature complete with cheeky impish elves. The playground has swings, a giant slide, and a seesaw for the younger ones. Older kids will especially love the pyramid climbing net and nearby Youth Precinct with a skate park and basketball ring.

MoPA – Museum of Play and Art is an ideal space, both indoor and outdoor, for children aged up to 7 years (or those young at heart.) MoPA was born from the ethos that more play and creativity can lead to a brighter future. Acclaimed as ‘One of the world’s best Children’s Museums’ by The Sydney Morning Herald, you’ll find it located just a few blocks walk from the Waterfront. Choose from 3 sessions held each day across 7 days of the week. The Museum also features a café on site.  Note: All tickets must be booked online >> MoPA

Geelong Botanical Gardens are easily reached at the end of the Eastern Beach on the Waterfront. Get rugged up and let the kids run and play – fresh air! Established in 1851 these renowned gardens are a must-see for adults and kids alike. Pack a picnic or visit the lovely café in the centre of the gardens. Entry is free.  If you’re after some additional playtime, head next door to the Geelong Play Space.

Eastern Beach Reserve area > Pack the swimmers – For the ideal free fun family day out, head to the iconic Eastern Beach Reserve area adjacent to the Geelong Botanic Gardens. It’s easily reached along the stunning Geelong waterfront and dotted with curious Baywalk Bollards and giant palm trees. The options for all ages are endless here. In the Summer, safe swimming areas are monitored by lifeguards allowing the kids to play safely on the sandy white beach that leads into a protected swimming area. Nearby older kids will also love the huge Sea Bathing area featuring a diving platform. Perfect for younger kids is the generous enclosed wading pool with a fountain, partial shade sails and a great playground. Pack a picnic or everything for a BBQ feast and grab your patch on the grassy green slopes overlooking the water. Alternatively, there is a popular Kiosk, café and restaurant conveniently located here known for its charming Art Deco architecture. Don’t miss Geelong’s iconic Spanish Staircase. The views are truly Insta-worthy! Entry is FREE.

Eastern Beach Reserve – 95 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong.