Things to See & Do
Searoad Ferries crossing the bay between Queenscliff and Sorrento hourly between 7am and 6pm, seven days of the week 375 days of the year.
Forget the long drive, come with Searoad Ferries for a restful crossing between Queenscliff and Sorrento. On your journey you may see a playful Dolphin playing in the waves of the ferry or even a whale from a distance. Connecting the Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine to the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island, the 40 minute crossing is a stress free alternative to driving through the city, saving you time and kilometres.
Whether you travel as a foot passenger to explore the villages of Queenscliff and Sorrento, or with your car, there is much to see on the crossing - spectacular coastline, mighty ships and maybe a dolphin or two. Or perhaps you'd rather be sipping a coffee, enjoying a focaccia or slurping on an ice cream from the onboard kiosk.
The twin hull vessels are built to operate in all weather conditions and can carry up to 700 passengers and 80 vehicles each.
Operating Times
The all weather ferries leave every hour on the hour, 7am to 6pm, 365 days of the year. A 7pm departure operates from December 26th until the end of the state of Victoria Daylight Saving.
Passengers with vehicles are advised to arrive at the terminals at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
The ferries depart from Queenscliff Harbour, Queenscliff and the Sorrento Pier, Sorrento. Melway references map 157 C7 (Sorrento) and map 499 J10(Queenscliff).
Special Features
On the 40-minute journey, unparalleled views of historic lighthouses, the Point Nepean fortifications, navigational features, seals and dolphins are available from the comfortable lounge areas, cafe style seating or numerous observation decks.
From its beginnings in the Otway Ranges, the Barwon River winds its way through suburban Geelong before flowing into the ocean at Barwon Heads.
The Barwon River is the site for a huge number of leisure pursuits for Geelong residents. There are several rowing clubs located in Belmont, and a little further south there is an area for waterskiing.
At various points along the river as it runs through Geelong there are tracks for running, cycling and walking. There are also several parks, playgrounds, picnic spots and BBQ areas.
The mouth of the river has sandy banks that are well used walkers and families who build sandcastles and paddle in the shallows.
Fishing is popular on the jetties near the mouth of the river and kayakers and paddlers are often seen in this area.
Barwon Heads also has a sailing club where laser yachts are often seen at high tide. There are also BBQs and picnic areas alongside the riverbank.
Building their city on a North-facing bay was a stroke of genius for the forefathers of Geelong. Generations later, residents and visitors alike are enjoying the benefits of the area collectively known as 'The Waterfront'.
Stretching from Eastern Beach around to Rippleside, the area incorporates many restaurants and cafes on the water's edge. There are places for kids to play, from open grassy areas to some of the biggest and best playgrounds in the region.
There are kids attractions including the carousel, a miniature train ride and a skate park. Seasonally there are also bungee trampolines and a giant ferris wheel.
Childrens attractions, open public space, a lively calendar of events and fabulous places to eat and drink make the Waterfront a Geelong must-do.
Queenscliff Harbour is a modern marina precinct established in a true Victorian working harbour, so there is always something to see and do.
Whether you're watching the Pilot boats returning from their trips into the rip, or you're signing on for a dive trip to one of Victoria's famous historic dive sites.
Perhaps you're just taking it all in from the second story fine dining room located in the restaurant or braving the heights and soaking up the wonderful 360 degree views from the harbour's very own observation tower.
The Royal Geelong Yacht Club is recognised as one of Australia's premier Yacht Clubs and boasts a proud history that stretches 150 years. The Royal Geelong Yacht Club plays host to many major yachting events that cover every facet of sailing from International Cadet racing, Etchell class racing, high octane skiff regattas, club based keel boat sailing, all the way through to Australia's oldest sporting event, Audi Victoria Week held annually on the Australia Day long weekend.
The excellent facilities give members the opportunity to enjoy true absolute waterfrontage and enjoy the best view that any yacht club can offer. Take in the views from the Members' Lounge, the Marina Cafe deck or the upstairs balcony. No other facility in Geelong can match the location! Members enjoy subsidised bar prices, access to member exclusive dining and private BBQ facilities that are completely cost free. These are just the beginning of member benefits as there is also a busy social calendar of events to select from.
A first class cadet facility provides young sailors with the opportunity to learn from some very accomplished club sailors who include State, National and even World Champions. Novice sailors will be warmly welcomed and encouraged to develop new skills and new friendships.
The modern club house allows members and the public to access fresh new conference and meeting rooms, with a larger room that is perfect for corporate events, wedding receptions or other significant events. The many catering options that they provide will suit any occasion.
Please call if you have any inquiry, or search the website for concise information on every aspect of The Royal Geelong Yacht Club, drop in to view the facilities or contact by phone or e-mail.