Covering 1,950 square kilometres, Port Phillip is the entrance to Australia's busiest port and is one of Victoria's most popular recreational destinations. Every year millions of people enjoy its vast coastline, world-class swimming beaches and coastal parks. An entirely different perspective however is available to those who explore the Bay by boat. Island, shipwrecks and marine reserves dot the Bay, while scuba diving and fishing reveal the colourful diversity of the Bay's marine life.
Over 3.2 million people live around its shore, making Port Phillip Bay Australia's most densely populated catchment. The bay is a large expanse of water that is surprisingly shallow in many places. Nearly half the bay is less than 8 metres deep. Its greatest depth is 24 metres.
Studies show that Port Phillip is a dynamic and self sustaining ecosystem which is healthier and cleaner than comparable bays near large cities. The shallowness of the water aids aeration and the many marine plants and organisms keep the bay in good condition.
Things to Do
Bay charter tours leave regularly from Portsea, Sorrento, Rye, St Kilda, Gem Pier, Portarlington and Queenscliff. Some of the boat launch ramps available for public use are located in Barwon Heads, Frankston, Mornington, Portarlington, Queenscliff, Rye and Sorrento.
In addition, Altona Pier, Brookes Jetty, Gem Pier, St Kilda Pier, Werribee Jetty, Portarlington Jetty and Queenscliff Pier are all equipped with barbeque, picnic and playground facilities.
Piers, jetties and bay destinations can be hired for weddings, filming, photography and other private use.
