Have you ever wondered what lives at the bottom of Port Phillip Bay? Students will examine creatures from a sample taken from the bottom of Port Phillip and observe their amazing structures that help them survive in the sea. The cruise also visits an Australian Fur Seal haul out site and Australasian Gannet colony in Port Phillip Bay.
We take in excess of 8000 students a year out into Port Phillip Bay. Our two hour educational Biology Tours are specifically designed and run by the Marine Discovery Center for School groups. Ages vary from 5 years old right through to adults.
You don’t have to be a student to join in! This trip is great for kids and makes an entertaining and educational School Holiday activity.
Wildlife and Ecology Tour Information
This is a 2 Hour Scenic Tour to Chinaman’s Hat to view Wild Australian Fur Seals and Australasian Gannets at Popes Eye, plus an eco sample discussion. The Marine Biologist onboard who will cover all areas of Marine Biology syllabus from Prep to Secondary School to University.
We use an ‘eco-sampler’ to gather many forms of marine plant life and dozens of aquatic biota. Including the Wandering Anemone made famous by Nemo, Seahorses, various Sea Stars , Crabs, Colonial Acidian, Reef Fish, Weed Fish, Isopods and dozens upon dozens more specimens to be found. All specimens are kept in viewing containers with fresh seawater to be passed around amongst the students for that “hands on” feel and experience in learning.
It is a fantastic educational experience and completely involves the students with up close and personal viewing of these Marine life forms. A Marine Biologist explains how these various forms of Marine life interact and play a part in the whole ecosystem of Port Phillip Bay. Samples are placed back into the region in which they were found to avoid any impact on the ecology of our fragile bay.
Recommended Groups
We accommodate schools/groups/clubs and organisations up to 25 people.
Important Information
We have full comprehensive public liability insurance and a safety and risk assessment plan is available. A safety briefing is conducted onboard before departure. These trips need to be booked in advanced as an experienced Marine Biologist is on hand to show you what lurks below the waterline of Port Phillip Bay.
Cost
Our 2 Hour Biology Tour includes charter of the Boat with Skipper, Deckhand and Marine Biologist onboard. Further educational activities are available at Queenscliff Marine Discovery Centre at a cost.
Bookings are made direct with Queenscliff Marine Discovery Centre on (03) 5258 3344.