Sustainability at heart

Every day, Port Phillip Ferries connects communities across Port Phillip Bay, providing a more relaxed, scenic and sustainable way to travel between Melbourne, Portarlington and Geelong.

As a tourism and transport operator, we recognise that sustainability is about more than protecting the environment. It’s about supporting local communities, strengthening regional economies and continually improving the way we operate.

Our approach focuses on three key pillars: protecting our environment, supporting our communities and creating positive economic outcomes for the regions we serve.

Taking Cars Off the Road

Every ferry crossing helps reduce congestion on Melbourne’s road network by providing an alternative transport option between the Bellarine Peninsula and Melbourne CBD.

By choosing to travel by ferry, passengers are helping reduce vehicle kilometres travelled while enjoying a more scenic, stress-free and enjoyable journey across the bay.

We also support active transport through:

• Free onboard bicycle racks
• Bike-friendly travel options for commuters and day-trippers
• Encouraging car-free regional tourism experiences
• Digital ticketing and communications that reduce paper consumption

Hullbot Underwater Cleaning Technology

In November 2024, Port Phillip Ferries introduced Hullbot, an Australian-designed underwater robotic cleaning system that removes marine growth from vessel hulls while vessels remain in the water.

Marine growth, known as biofouling, creates drag on vessels, increasing fuel consumption and emissions. Traditionally, vessels require dry-docking or chemical-based cleaning methods to address the problem.

Hullbot provides a more sustainable solution by cleaning vessel hulls without chemicals, divers or vessel downtime.

Results Since Implementation

• 175 hours of robotic cleaning completed across both vessels
• 9.1% reduction in fuel consumption
• Reduced carbon emissions through improved fuel efficiency
• No chemical cleaning agents used
• Reduced reliance on dry-docking maintenance
• Improved vessel performance and operational efficiency

Hullbot forms part of our ongoing commitment to reducing our environmental footprint while improving operational performance.

Port Phillip Ferries is proud to partner with Envirobank to improve recycling outcomes across our operations.

Envirobank recycling stations have been introduced at the Melbourne Ferry Terminal and onboard both of our 400-passenger vessels, making it easier for customers and staff to recycle while travelling.

Initiatives include:

• Recycling infrastructure at Melbourne Ferry Terminal
• Recycling facilities onboard both vessels
• Passenger awareness and recycling education
• Improved waste separation processes
• Reduced waste sent to landfill

Port Phillip Ferries is committed to supporting the communities we operate within.

Our contribution extends beyond transport, helping local organisations, clubs and community groups connect, grow and thrive.

Community Support

• Sponsorship of local sporting clubs, including the Portarlington Football Club
• Ferry ticket donations for community fundraisers and raffles
• Support for local events and festivals
• Community partnership programs throughout the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong region

Accessible Travel

We believe travel should be available to everyone.

Our vessels provide accessible boarding facilities, onboard amenities and a comfortable travel experience for families, seniors and passengers with mobility requirements. Click here to read more about our accessibility. 

Port Philip Ferries are pleased to be a part of Businesses Caring For Our Bays (BCFOB). A program focused on empowering local businesses to take an active role to reduce waste, care for their local environment and engage customers. BCFOB has been developed and delivered through a partnership with:

• Caring for Our Bays (Geelong and Bellarine region)
• Connected to Port Phillip (wider Port Phillip Bay catchment).
• Barwon South West Waste and Resource Recovery Group (BSWWRRG)

Every ferry journey helps support local businesses and regional communities.

We work closely with wineries, restaurants, galleries, attractions, accommodation providers and tourism operators to encourage visitation throughout the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong region.

Supporting Local Business

• Local food and beverage offerings onboard, including Bellarine Peninsula products
• Partnerships with regional wineries, restaurants and attractions
• Promotion of locally owned tourism businesses
• Development of experience-based tourism packages

Driving Regional Visitation

Port Phillip Ferries brings thousands of visitors to regional Victoria each year.

Through ferry travel, tourism packages and strategic partnerships, we help generate visitor spending that supports jobs, businesses and local economies.

Particular focus is placed on encouraging midweek and off-peak visitation, helping regional businesses attract visitors throughout the year.

Sustainability is a journey of continuous improvement.

We will continue to invest in technologies, partnerships and initiatives that reduce environmental impacts, strengthen local communities and support the long-term sustainability of the regions we serve.

Together, we can help protect our bay, support our communities and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.