Scenic Ferry & Art Day Trip with Port Phillip Ferries
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated ferry travel with light walking inside the gallery.
Overview
Combine a scenic ferry ride across Port Phillip Bay with exclusive entry to Geelong Gallery’s Cutting Through Time exhibition. Discover a smooth blend of natural beauty and celebrated Australian art on this unique day trip from Melbourne’s Docklands.
One Way Ferry + Geelong Gallery Package
Cutting Through Time Exhibition at the Geelong Gallery
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the captivating world of art with the Return Ferry + Entry to Cutting Through Time exhibition. Celebrate renowned Australian artists Cressida Campbell and Margaret Preston at Geelong Gallery, from 18 May to 28 July 2024. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and immerse yourself in their stunning works inspired by Japanese ukiyo-e prints.
Return Ferry + Entry to Cutting Through Time
Cressida Campbell, Margaret Preston, and the Japanese Print.
When
Saturday and Sunday sessions; 18 May to 28 July 2024
About
Port Phillip Ferries is excited to be the Official Travel Partner of Cutting Through Time, a Geelong Gallery exhibition celebrating the beautiful works by famed Australian artists Cressida Campbell and Margaret Preston.
Showing at Geelong Gallery from 18 May to 28 July, the Ferry + Exhibition packages include return ferry tickets and entry to Cutting Through Time.
This will be the first significant exhibition in Victoria for more than a decade focused on Margaret Preston, one of Australia’s most beloved modernist printmakers, and one that will celebrate the remarkable contemporary artist, Cressida Campbell. The exhibition presents their work in the context of their love of, and the influence on their work of, the serene aesthetics and sophistication of historical Japanese ukiyo-e woodcut prints.
To ensure the comfort of all gallery patrons, there are capacity limits in the gallery for each session which means Port Phillip Ferries only has a limited number of gallery+ferry packages available. Please see below the session availability and book early to avoid missing out.
Weekends & Public Holidays
Saturday and Sundays
- 10.40am Docklands (via Portarlington) arriving Geelong 12.50pm
- Gallery Session time options: 1.20pm 1.40pm, 2.00pm or 2.20pm (capped at 20 pax per session - larger groups can be accommodated).
- 4.00pm Geelong (via Portarlington) arriving Docklands 6.10pm.
Gallery session times with packages There are limited numbers allocated for each session time, so please book early to secure your preferred session time. Session times are outline below so please be sure to book early in order to get your preferred session:
- 1:20pm x 20 allocations per day
- 1:40pm x 20 allocations per day
- 2:00pm x 20 allocations per day
- 2:20pm x 20 allocations per day
Image captions for the above:
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Utagawa Hiroshige - Stage 26. Nissaka c.1850 hand-coloured woodblock Geelong Gallery JH McPhillimy Bequest Fund, 1955
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Margaret Preston - Fuchsia and balsam 1928 hand-coloured woodcut Geelong Gallery Purchased 1982 © Margaret Preston/Copyright Agency, 2024
Adventure Tips
Book Your Gallery Slot Early
Gallery sessions are capped at 20 visitors per time, so reserve your spot well in advance to secure your preferred viewing time.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Plan to be at the ferry terminal at least 15 minutes prior to departure for check-in and boarding procedures.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Gear
Ferry decks can be breezy; bring a windbreaker or layers depending on the season to stay comfortable during your ride.
Prepare for Solo Return Transport if Needed
The package offers a one-way ferry ticket; if you don’t book a return, arrange your own transport from Geelong back to Melbourne.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black swans gliding the bay
- Terns and seagulls nesting near the shoreline
History
Geelong’s port has been vital since the 19th century, growing from a wool export hub into a vibrant regional city blending industry and culture.
Conservation
Port Phillip Bay hosts sensitive marine habitats; both ferry operators and visitors are encouraged to minimize waste and respect local wildlife to protect this environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Protects against bay winds during the ferry ride, regardless of season.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For walking the final stretch from the Geelong ferry terminal to the gallery and around the interiors.
Sunglasses and Sunblock
Necessary for sun protection on the uncovered ferry deck and while strolling outdoors.
spring|summer|fall specific
Small Daypack
Handy for carrying water, a camera, and any layers you may remove or add.