FerryConnect

Australia

Melbourne (Docklands) → Portarlington

Port Phillip Ferries’ catamaran crosses Port Phillip Bay between central Melbourne’s Docklands and the Bellarine Peninsula town of Portarlington, used by commuters and by day-trippers heading for Bellarine wineries and mussel farms.

⏱ About 1h 10m🚢 1 operator📅 2 sailings each way daily (3 on Tuesdays from Portarlington)
Book with Port Phillip Ferries→

Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington ferry at a glance

The ferry from Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington takes About 1h 10m across the Port Phillip Bay, operated by Port Phillip Ferries. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: 2 sailings each way daily (3 on Tuesdays from Portarlington).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: portphillipferries.com.au · portphillipferries.com.au · How we verify

Return crossing: Portarlington to Melbourne (Docklands)

Port Phillip Ferries also sails Portarlington to Melbourne (Docklands), taking About 1h 10m. Weekday departures from Portarlington are at 7:15am and 4:00pm (plus 11:00am on Tuesdays), aimed at Melbourne commuters.

Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington ferry timetable & sailing pattern

2 departures daily in each direction

Published departure times

  • 9:30am (Mon–Fri)
  • 10:40am (Mon–Fri)
  • 10:40am (Sat–Sun)
  • 11:50am (Sat–Sun)

Return: Weekday departures from Portarlington are at 7:15am and 4:00pm (plus 11:00am on Tuesdays), aimed at Melbourne commuters.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Port Phillip Ferries timetable →Check prices & book on Port Phillip Ferries →

Source: Port Phillip Ferries Portarlington–Docklands page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Melbourne (Docklands) and Portarlington

📐 23 Nautical Miles
Melbourne (Docklands)⇄Portarlington
⏱ About 1h 10m · 📐 23 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington?

Book your crossing with Port Phillip Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with Port Phillip Ferries→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Port Phillip Ferries1h 10m35-metre catamaran

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

23 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Docklands terminal (131 Harbour Esplanade) is near free CBD tram zone stop D3 and Southern Cross Station.
  • Free all-day parking near Portarlington pier; Henderson’s Reserve is recommended for commuters.
  • Up to 20 bikes per sailing, carried free but must be pre-booked.

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from Melbourne (Docklands)Melbourne (Docklands) → Geelong1h 35m – 2h 10m · Port Phillip FerriesNearby alternative crossingQueenscliff → SorrentoAbout 40m · Searoad FerriesMore ferries in AustraliaGeelong → Devonport (Tasmania)10h – 11h (day or overnight) · Spirit of TasmaniaMore ferries in AustraliaSydney (Circular Quay) → Manly18m – 30m · Sydney Ferries, Manly Fast FerryMore ferries in AustraliaCape Jervis → Kangaroo Island (Penneshaw)45m · SeaLinkMore ferries in AustraliaFremantle → Rottnest Island25m – 30m · Rottnest Express, SeaLink Rottnest Island
⚓ Docklands Ferry Terminal (Melbourne) guide⛴ All ferries from Melbourne🗺 All ferries in Australia🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog on Port Phillip Ferries?
No. Only accredited guide dogs and assistance animals are allowed on board.
How long is the ferry from Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington?
The crossing typically takes About 1h 10m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington ferry sail?
2 departures daily in each direction. This is the pattern published in the Port Phillip Ferries Portarlington–Docklands page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington?
Port Phillip Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Melbourne (Docklands) to Portarlington ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
How far is Melbourne (Docklands) from Portarlington by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 23 nautical miles (roughly 43 km).