Combine the charm of a heritage steam train with the scenic beauty of a ferry cruise on Steamrail Victoria’s Rail and Sail tour. Explore Melbourne and Geelong’s waterfronts on this unique full-day trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as travel and exploration involve light walking and seated travel
Wildlife
History
Steamrail Victoria preserves and operates heritage locomotives, keeping Australia's rail history alive through authentic rail experiences dating back over a century.
Conservation
Passengers are encouraged to minimize waste during the trip, and Steamrail Victoria supports efforts to maintain Port Phillip Bay’s marine environment through sustainable operational practices.
Port Phillip Ferries
Port Phillip Ferries is based in Portarlington, Victoria and operates scheduled ferry services and curated cruise experiences across Port Phillip Bay and between Docklands and Geelong. The operator offers a diverse program of short and mid-length journeys including family entertainment cruises, educational children’s programs, scenic bay cruises, and paired ferry-plus-entry art packages.
Trips range from the 90-minute Singalong Cruises — a family musical movie cruise along the Yarra River — to 2.5-hour Port Phillip Bay Cruises and brunch cruises aboard a sleek 35-metre catamaran to Portarlington and back. Seasonal and special-event offerings include Retro Entertainment collaborations for festive performances and gallery packages that combine a scenic ferry ride with entry to Geelong Gallery exhibitions.
Family- and education-focused trips include the Fish Club 'Play and Stay' program for children aged 6–13: a two-hour interactive session from Docklands to Geelong that teaches marine life awareness and responsible fishing, includes a fishing experience on the waterfront, and provides take-home activities and a fishing rod. Culinary offerings include the Port to Plate Mussel Experience to Portarlington with lunch at the historic Grand Hotel, highlighting the town’s mussel heritage.
Partnerships expand travel options through combined rail-and-ferry itineraries with Steamrail Victoria, special-event performances at Amphora, and timed gallery access for exhibitions such as Cutting Through Time at Geelong Gallery (18 May–28 July 2024). Focused on safe, scenic travel and curated experiences, Port Phillip Ferries serves families, art lovers, food tourists and day trippers seeking reliable ferry connections and memorable outings on Port Phillip Bay.
Departure Port
Portarlington, VIC
Home base and mussel destination
Tours Offered
11 tours
Family, scenic and special events
Typical Durations
90–150 mins
Short cruises and 2.5‑hour trips
Family Friendly
Yes
Kids programs and singalongs available
Reserve seats for family cruises, Port Phillip Bay tours, gallery packages and culinary day trips from Portarlington. Limited spots on special events — secure tickets now.
Book Early for Best Seats
Heritage steam trains and ferries have limited capacity, so reserve your spot well in advance to secure your preferred travel option.
Bring Layered Clothing
Weather on Port Phillip Bay can shift quickly; dressing in layers ensures comfort during both train and ferry segments.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arrive at Southern Cross Station or Docklands Terminal at least 20 minutes before departure to allow for smooth boarding and seating.
Carry a Camera for Waterfront Views
This journey presents unique photographic opportunities of Melbourne’s skyline and bay, especially from the ferry.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For walking around Geelong’s waterfront and station platforms.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
spring
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure during ferry rides and outdoor exploring.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
To capture scenic views and memorable moments on the water and rail sections.