You’re looking at a day trip to Phillip Island — home of the Penguin Parade, wild surf spots and charming coastal towns — but stuck wondering: where do I catch the ferry? Whether you’re dodging city traffic, looking for a passenger ferry service, or just want a break from busy city roads, I’ll walk you through your options.
From Stony Point Jetty to Cowes Jetty, from Western Port Bay to Port Phillip Bay, here’s your journey planner, with ferry timetables, travel times and all the details.
The Main Ferry Route: Stony Point to Cowes
Stony Point Jetty (Mornington Peninsula side)
Location: Crib Point, Western Port Bay
Ferry Operator: Western Port Ferries (a division of Westernport Ferries)
Ferry Terminal Address: 1 Stony Point Rd
Parking: Free but fills up quickly during school holidays
Access: Via Stony Point Rail Replacement Bus Stop or train from Frankston
Nearby Attractions: Charming towns, brewery tours, beach boxes at nearby Chicken Beach
Ticket Types: Individual ticket, child tickets, adult ticket, return ferry trip or one-way ticket options available
This is the relaxing way to start your Phillip Island day trip.
Cowes Jetty (Phillip Island side)
Location: Seaside town centre of Cowes
What’s Nearby: Erehwon Point Playground, Cowes Pier, holiday parks, wildlife sanctuaries
Access to: Tankerton Jetty, San Remo and more
“This route gives you a world-class ferry ride without the chain ferry queues. I always book tickets in advance, especially when there’s a limited-time offer or a ferry combo available.”
If you’re joining one of the popular Phillip Island tours that start from Cowes, this ferry will drop you right in the heart of the action.
Can You Take Your Car on the Ferry?
No, you can’t drive on board this one. Unlike Searoad Ferries, which run between Sorrento and Queenscliff, the Island Ferry between Stony Point and Cowes is for foot passengers and bicycles only.
If you’re after a ferry port with car access, look into Port Phillip Ferries from Portarlington to Docklands, Portarlington, or the Port Melbourne options — though none of those get you to Phillip Island directly.
If you’re set on visiting Cape Woolamai Beach or booking a self-paced Phillip Island tour by vehicle, then driving via San Remo and across the bridge is your best bet.
Ferry Schedule and Seasonality
Here are the details on route times and service variations:
Morning Departure Times: Start around 7:00 AM
Afternoon Departure Times: Vary by season, check Current Timetable
Trip Duration: 40-minute trip across Western Port Bay
Weather 60-metre Ferries: Designed for safety and stability
Runs in School Holidays: Yes, but book early to avoid disappointment
Extra Time: Always allow for a 15-20 minute buffer before departure
“On one crossing passengers were treated to whales in winter breaching near the bow. It was a day sail worth every cent.”
Booking, Timetables & Memberships
Ticket Sales: Online or at the ferry terminal
Ferry Packages & Day Trip Ideas: Via mailing list sign-up
Ferry Membership Program: For regulars and commuters
Journey Calculator Tools: Some operators, like Port Ferries and Port Phillip Ferries, have these online
Book Tickets: Public holidays
If you’re planning your Phillip Island day tour from the city centre or a luxury city hotel in Melbourne, allow for traffic delays and consider MyBus Geelong or options via Geelong Waterfront and North Geelong.
Why Choose a Ferry Over Driving?
Here’s why a ferry trip might just be the better option:
- Avoid Busy City Roads: Skip the Southbank and South Wharf snarls
- Coastal Journeys: Laid-back coastal town vibe
- Fantastic for Families: Less stress, more fun-filled family daytime
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Reduces car reliance
- Charming Views: Port Phillip Bay to Bellarine Peninsula and back
“I’ve done the entire journey with nothing but a backpack, a thermos and a smile. No city traffic, no car parks, no dramas.”
Many book Phillip Island day tours with ferry and pre-arranged activities — perfect if you’re short on time or just want someone else to do the planning.
Packing Tips & Day Trip Prep
- Bring snacks: the Melbourne Ferry Terminal Café is nice, but options on board are limited
- Dress for the breeze: even in summer, the wind can bite
- Book Geelong connections in advance if you’re linking via Portarlington, Geelong
- If you’re heading out from Victoria Harbour, allow an hour’s drive if not based in the central city
Final Thoughts
If you want a guided experience, Autopia Tours offers great Phillip Island tours that can tie into your ferry-based itinerary — perfect if you don’t want to worry about the logistics
Whether you’re going to Cowes Jetty, San Remo or crossing from the Bellarine Mornington Peninsulas, there’s something nice about trading city life for a breezy ferry ride. The Island Ferry from Stony Point might not be a heritage-listed cable ferry, but it’s a slice of classic Aussie coastal life.
Whether you’re on a brewery tour, one of the bus tours out of Geelong Railway Station or just after some seaside R&R, catching the ferry to Phillip Island is a great option. If you’re building a longer itinerary, many Phillip Island tours will include stops at hot spots like Cape Woolamai Beach or Churchill Island.
FAQ
Can I bring my bike?
Yes, there’s a bike rack on board. Great for exploring Cowes and the surrounding Victorian areas.
Can I bring a pram or wheelchair?
Yep, and the crew can assist. Accessible terminals at both ends.
Is there a ferry from Melbourne direct to Phillip Island?
No, you’ll need to get from Port Melbourne or Central Pier to Stony Point by car or train first.
Are there day sailings year-round?
Mostly yes, but always check the ferry timetables for seasonal variations.
What if I’m short on time?
Choose an early departure time and plan for extra distance. A ferry trip is a reasonable option if you don’t want to drive all the way around via San Remo.
