WaterMaarq in Sorrento, Victoria, Australia | Travel and transport

WaterMaarq

Locality: Sorrento, Victoria, Australia

Phone: +61 412 082 171

Address: Sorrento Pier, Esplanade 3943 Sorrento, VIC, Australia

Website: https://watermaarq.com.au

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25.01.2022 Swim with dolphins! **NEW FOR SEASON 2020/21** Avoid the crowds and escape the everyday in Nature on WaterMaarq's personal and educational ethical marine wildlife tours.... Our popular and award-winning 2-hour Great Southern Reef tours that connect you with the untold beauty of Port Phillip Bay, the entertaining fur seals, the colourful weedy seadragons, and majestic smooth stingrays, now offer you the incredible opportunity to swim with dolphins during the tour. As restrictions in Victoria ease, the sun shines brighter, and the water warms up, please join us on our small group tours of only 12 guests to appreciate and marvel at the wonders of our local Mornington Peninsula environment. We look forward to welcoming you! Bookings available 24/7 online at watermaarq.com.au. Thank you for your decency and support during what has been an incredibly challenging year of 2020 for all our citizens and communities. Let's enjoy a return to the adventures of life with family and friends as we enjoy liberties safely once again. Thank you, Marlon Quinn Tour Host, RIB Pilot & PADI Master Freediving Instructor . . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #dolphinswim #bottlenose #dolphins #dolphinswimming #ethical #ecotour #boattour #tourism #wandervictoria #australia #holidayherethisyear #underwater #portphillipbay #tourism #melbourne #morningtonpeninsula #uwphoto

25.01.2022 Casual Snorkel Guide - Marine Tourism We are an award-winning charter boat tours operator based out of Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula and have an opportunity for a casual guide to join our small team. We're seeking a candidate with an outdoor focused interest ready to begin. You may already be a qualified Outdoor Guide, Marine Science Alumni or experienced in Hospitality with a keen interest in the marine environment. A marine science background is beneficial, but not e...ssential. You have an affinity for people, for customer service, and relate to people in a way that puts them at ease. You can help and teach people how to improve in a supportive and progressive way. You're safety focused and can manage groups of people swiftly and easily to deliver a memorable positive experience in a range of sea conditions. With First Aid qualifications, you're ready to step in if there's an emergency. A knowledge of local bays and marine life is desirable, or a keen interest in developing further through your enthusiasm and interest in our local environment. Tasks and Activities: - Responsible for guiding guests during tour operations - Provide safety briefings and maintain safety and regulatory compliance standards - In water, monitor conditions/environment/guests for optimal experience - Handle snorkelling equipment and assist with crew duties on board the vessel - Provide customer service, resolve issues and problems, ensure high quality adventure experiences - Complete relevant documentation / logs - Keep to schedule times and durations - Work in conjunction with Skipper and Guests to deliver professional-level experiences Special Conditions: - Working With Children Check clearance - Current First Aid certificate - Pool lifeguard / bronze medallion certified or willing to study for certification as nationally recognised snorkel guide qualification - Excellent swimming/snorkelling ability If this sounds like you or has perked your interest, please contact us ([email protected]) with a copy of your resume, a brief introduction about yourself, details of your training / certifications, your experience and what makes you most interested about joining us to help deliver remarkable tour services to marine enthusiasts in Victoria. Applicants must be available weekdays and weekends and comfortable working on a casual roster basis. Please contact us via email with your keen interest with subject heading "Casual Snorkel Guide Application" for best results.

25.01.2022 Oh what a joy to swim freely in the sea, the salt on your skin, the sun on your back, the glow in your eyes. The water temperature is on the slow rise and we can all look forward to summery adventures becoming closer and closer! A playful Australian Fur Seal getting curious with your marine science guide Cathy on tour @instacavallo ... . . . . #seal #swimming #underwater #uwphoto #wildlife #nature #sorrento_village #ecotour #boattour #greatsouthernreef #visitmelbourne #Australia #travelphotography #travelpics #tourism #holidayherethisyear #adventure #holidays #play #sea #portphillipbay #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula

25.01.2022 A couple of old wives fish moving slowly about the crackling noisy reef get buzzed by a female herring cale as it zooms by, intent on finding quick cover. Port Phillip Bay, home to vibrant colour, surprisingly noisy fishy reef communities and endless movement. It's an ever-evolving adventure! ... Let us show you around. . . . . . #visitvictoria #visitmp #morningtonpeninsula #underwater #underwatervideo #greatsouthernreef #portphillipbay #sorrento_village #holidays #snorkeling #fish #reef #mynikonlife #summer #melbournetodo

25.01.2022 In the last couple of weeks it's been a pleasure to see the far reaching change and positive impact one man's interaction with an octopus has brought to so many people. The @netflixanz documentary "My Octopus Teacher" has brought something beautiful, a new understanding of how we are connected to the ocean and it's life, rather than merely a visitor when we immerse in it. Craig Foster of the @seachangeproject freedives without a wetsuit in the cold temperate waters of the So...uth African kelp forest, waters similar to our own Victorian coastal and bay waters of Port Phillip that vary in the range 8c-21c covering the Great Southern Reef. Following his story in the film, directed by Pippa Ehrlich @the_rewilding and James Reed, it's a fantastic recognition of how the water, the sea, teaches us about ourselves, the importance of connectedness and how we can become better people merely for the undertaking of something so simple as slowing down enough to swim and look around for even 15 or 20 minutes in Nature's glorious basin. Behind the 90 minutes of time you'll enjoy watching the film is Craig's 10 years of diving the forest, and 4 years of editing to bring this wonderful insight to many. Even that in and of itself is testament to the passion and dedication a world of natural wonder can bring each of us, if we dare. It's amazing the discoveries that await under the surface of the sea, every day and every hour offers something new in Port Phillip Bay! @marlon_quinn Getting up close and personal with a Maori Octopus in Port Phillip Bay on an Autumn day swim. . . . . #myoctopusteacher #rememberyouarewild #seachangeproject #morniterranean #octopus #portphillipbay #temperate #maorioctopus #greatsouthernreef #morningtonpeninsula #coldwater #padifreediver #underwater #uwphoto #mynikonlife #inspiringstories #adventure #wandervictoria #australia #rememberthewild

24.01.2022 Learn more about this year's Great Victorian Fish Count hero, the Victorian Scalyfin, on a webinar tonight at 6pm hosted by the Victorian National Parks Association . It'll be a fun and insightful interlude!

23.01.2022 Lovers of two wheels and marine life will enjoy these new cycling kit designs by local Mornington Peninsula designer @miss_cadence with her local brand @lifestyle_passion_official . We're excited to be collaborating on this production in conjunction with Tour Host @marlon_quinn as the jersey will feature his local Port Phillip Bay bottlenose dolphins image too. The kits are produced in Melbourne as well, so what a marvellous way to support local people and share the love! ... Pre-orders close this weekend, better act fast. Jump online at: lifestylepassion.com.au . . . . . #morningtonpeninsula #curiouslyoutdoors #cyclinglife #cyclinglifestyle #cyclingkit #supportlocal #buylocal #cyclingpassion #roadcycling #lovecycling #stravaccyling #newkitday #roadbiking #cyclingismylife #dolphins

21.01.2022 Which way to go? What to do first?! With restrictions easing and all of us re-emerging from lockdown, it's hard to know which way to go and what to do first. After all that time cooped up, suddenly we want to do everything, and all at once!... It's a wonderful time in life, never could our deepest wishes and dreams be clearer. Make it count! Freediving in a school of trevally in Bass Strait by your Host, @marlon_quinn . . . . . #underwater #trevally #freediving #paditv #morningtonpeninsula #visitvictoria #visitmp #holidayherethisyear #bassstrait #uwphoto #freedivingphotography #adventure #blue #freedive #greatsouthernreef #fish #mynikonlife #sorrento_village

21.01.2022 Wishing all the Dad's, Granddads, and Father's-to-be a wonderful day shared with family on this sunny day in Spring. It's a moment to recognise the protection, support and guidance all Fathers do their best to provide, in the best way they can with all the skills, understanding and lessons they've learned or been handed down through generations. Sometimes it's right, sometimes it's not, but there's no other figure like your Dad in your life.... This day is a nice reminder to let them know they matter. Happy Father's Day to all, wishing you many entertaining adventures with family! . . . . #fathersday #dads #fathers #springtime

21.01.2022 Take me to where the wild things are. Take me where I feel set free. Take me to the sea. And let me be.... ----- WaterMaarq Eco Boat Tours Sorrento VIC . . . . #visitmp #holidayherethisyear #stayclosegofurther #visitvictoria #dolphins #morningtonpeninsula #ecofriendly #boattour #ecotourism #summervibes #instamelbourne #wildlife #nature #portphillipbay #melbournetodo #bottlenose

21.01.2022 The annual spider crab migration in Port Phillip Bay is one of the unique features of our local Mornington Peninsula waters, occurring each winter as the spider crabs aggregate in the shallows in their thousands to shed their shells and reveal the new ones underneath. Join WaterMaarq as we introduce you to this year's 2020 Victorian spider crab molt.

18.01.2022 WaterMaarq's PADI FREEDIVER courses are back! New schedule for the foundation PADI Basic Freediver course just released for December, held in Cheltenham VIC. Current swimming pool restrictions limit the regular course size of eight to only 5x students and a very limited schedule.... Please follow our bio link to view course dates and to book online. https://watermaarq.com.au/freediving-cours/freediver-basic/ It's time to awaken your inner dolphin and seal!! Courses led by PADI Master Freediving Instructor @marlon_quinn . Further announcements will be made for additional courses and training dives as new information is received to hand. . . . . . #freediving #freedivingcourse #padifreediver #apnea #onebreath #Melbourne #visitvictoria #stayclosegofurther #learntofreedive #paditv #padifreediver #padifreediving

18.01.2022 The Victorian Scalyfin is this year's Victorian National Parks Association ReefWatch Great Victorian Fish Count icon and we can't wait to encounter them on tour again up close in beautiful Port Phillip Bay. This year WaterMaarq is supporting citizen science and offering two super GVFC tours on Sat 21st Nov and Sat 5th Dec. To encourage budding marine scientists and aquatic Attenborough's and Cousteau's we offer these 2-hour guided snorkelling boat tours at sponsored rates, o...nly $49 for child tickets and $69 for adults. Led by your enthusiastic WaterMaarq guide, you'll use specially designed dive slates to identify and count the amount of species seen on our tour to the Port Phillip Heads Marine Park. This important data will be provided to the VNPA and be added to a huge database of information to help understand more about the health of our marine environment. Then you'll finish off by enjoying the most entertaining in-water experience ever, swimming with the local fur seals, an absolute delight! Find out more and book now at: https://watermaarq.com.au/great-victorian-fish-count/ . Only 10 x places per tour! Departing from Sorrento Pier. . . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #gvfc #scalyfin #citizenscience #portphillipbay #ecotour #marinescience #conservation #Australia #greatsouthernreef #snorkelling #snorkelingtrip #boattour #morningtonpeninsula #fish #adventure #reefwatch

17.01.2022 BUSINESS VICTORIA TRAVEL VOUCHER SCHEME The Victorian Government is helping communities recover through the provision of vouchers to visitors that travel across regional Victoria, including the Mornington Peninsula. Starting tomorrow, Friday 11th December at 10am, applicants can register to apply for a Regional Travel Voucher which can be used to claim $200 reimbursement if you have spent at least $400 on accommodation or tour experiences like WaterMaarq's boat tours.... The vouchers provide a wonderful extra incentive for all Victorians to explore their beautiful back yard and support regional communities like ours hard hit by bushfires, pandemic and other challenges this year. The vouchers will provide a much needed boost for the operators of accommodation and tourism businesses across the state in the peak summer holiday period. The vouchers will be available from 10:00am tomorrow, with successful applicants able to redeem their voucher after they have travelled, ensuring cash flows immediately to regional businesses. The voucher scheme is open to Victorian residents aged 18 or over when they spend a minimum $400 on accommodation, experiences or tours in regional Victoria in specified periods. Vouchers will be limited to one per household and travellers will be required to spend at least two nights in paid accommodation in regional Victoria to qualify for the scheme. Victorians will register through the Business Victoria website and if successful, be provided with a link to redeem the voucher after their travel is completed. Vouchers will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. To apply, please visit: business.vic.gov.au/travelvouchers We hope to welcome you on board soon!

16.01.2022 Now is the time to enjoy the rather unique Victorian underwater spectacle of the breeding season of Weedy Seadragons. Watch as the male seadragons hover precariously just above the bay floor, protecting the very precious eggs upon their tails. Soon from these eggs will emerge tiny new weedy seadragons, embarking on a perilous and dangerous journey for survival from fish and crustacean predators that populate the chain of the Great Southern Reef. ... Enjoy the opportunity to observe these wonderful creatures in the wild with your own eyes on our 2hr Dolphin & Seal Swim Reef Snorkel Tour departing Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula. It's just one of the valuable secrets of Port Phillip Bay that you'll soon wish to protect and preserve as if it's your own delicate gift of nature. Filmed freediving on one breath by your host and master freediving instructor @marlon_quinn on @nikonaustralia #AW130 underwater compact camera. . . . . #weedyseadragon #breeding #summer #summervibes #summertime #underwatervideo #freediving #padifreediver #freedivingphotography #greatsouthernreef #temperate #portphillipbay #visitmp #connectedtoportphillip #visitvictoria #seeaustralia #holidayherethisyear #stayclosegofurther

16.01.2022 It's often said that art imitates life, but how about fish imitating Victorians as soon as health restrictions are lifted?! A few days ago we swam with these Australian Salmon in the shallows of Port Phillip Bay, it was a treat to enjoy their presence. We're on the edge of our seats waiting for restrictions to ease and are looking forward to tours operating again very soon.... Once official announcements are made we'll be happy to update you as quickly as we can. In the meantime, tour gift vouchers remain available, or if you would like to book a tour, you may proceed with confidence as any cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions being reintroduced will of course be refundable. . . . . #snorkeling #snorkellingtrip #portphillipbay #mynikonlife #holidayherethisyear #australia #morningtonpeninsula #fish #springtime #underwatervideo #underwater #freediving #morniterranean #visitmelbourne #sorrento_village #boattour #adventure #greatsouthernreef

15.01.2022 GREAT NEWS! From Saturday 20th June, in line with new COVID-19 operating regulations in place, WaterMaarq’s Eco Adventure Boat Cruise and Special Private Tours are OPEN FOR BOOKINGS. Regular 1.5HR ECO TOURS are restricted both in guest numbers and scheduled times (Sat & Sun only at this stage). PRIVATE TOURS offer flexible guest numbers, depending on how groups are formed, eg single household versus mixed private groups. ... Please refer to the blog link for more information and thank you for your ongoing support from all the WaterMaarq crew. http://watermaarq.com.au//watermaarq-eco-boat-tours-durin/

15.01.2022 Just because it's winter, it doesn't mean the fish have vacated the clear waters of the Mornington Peninsula. These Zebra fish were enjoying the calm seas and protection of the reef within the marine park boundary. .... . . #morningtonpeninsula #greatsouthernreef #paditv #padifreediver #adventure #winter #snorkelling #freediving #mynikonlife #aw130 #underwater #underwatervideo #zebrafish #visitmelbourne #portphillipbay #ecotourism #boattour #sorrento_village #uwvideo #happiness #lovewhereyoulive #morniterranean #australia See more

14.01.2022 Nothing compares to freely swimming through the water as if you're flying and soaring through the clouds. The beauty, serenity and majesty of a local Mornington Peninsula Eagle Ray moving through the water, if we can all seek to embody even a skerrick of such poise, surely we will be that one bit closer to aquatic nirvana! .... . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #ecotour #boattour #tourism #holidayherethisyear #underwatervideo #eagleray #stingray #mynikonlife #aw130 #snorkeling #freediving #uwvideo #padifreediver #morningtonpeninsula #wandervictoria #australia #adventure #outdoors #grace See more

13.01.2022 It's been a while since the day commenced like this! They're not far away though. We'll be enjoying the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula's waters and glorious coastline again soon enough.... Life is just one big adventure isn't it?! . . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #ecotours #boating #boattour #sorrento_village #portphillipbay #wandervictoria #visitmelbourne #samsunglife #adventure

13.01.2022 It's a small start, but we decided if we can't take you to explore the sea, let's bring a touch of the sea to you through our on-line Gift Shop! Our first design is the iconic Weedy Seadragon, a mystical, calm and unassuming creature that goes with the flow, integrating with its weedy environment perfectly in colour, shape and movement. A range of gift ideas are available from art prints, homewares like coffee mugs and throw pillows as pictured, as well as daily use products ...including drink flasks, backpacks, phone cases and notebooks. See more of our first design beginnings at: watermaarq.com.au/shop . The image is one captured by your host Marlon @marlon_quinn from our local waters, and as we introduce more into the range along the way, we'll continue to share designs created in-house, from right here on the Mornington Peninsula. Which of your favourite local sea creatures would you like to see featured next? Thanks from the crew at WaterMaarq! . . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #wandervictoria #giftideas #giftshop #morningtonpeninsula #giftsforher #giftsforhim #weedyseadragon #seadragon #pillow #throwpillow #homewares #local #localdesign #holidayherethisyear #australia

12.01.2022 Imagine you're thrust out into the world and immediately begin fending for yourself with only generations of DNA to guide you. Instinctively clinging on to the first thing you see, for security, for camouflage, to get swept along in the current with your new blade of grass sail. Peering all around looking below as the sea floor changes, observing the colours, the textures, this body of water that appears endless yet familiar in every dimension of the three.... Taking opportunities to feed as you float about, all the time working to not be fed upon. Nearing the surface, sense that strange wonder of the eyes as what seems to be a thin layer separating everything that is known in this world, but some strange blue and white world above that sometimes even goes black with shining white spots glimmering in strange shapes. What a beginning to life, all alone, seeking, searching, surviving, perhaps even thriving. A baby seahorse's journey into life begins underwater on the Mornington Peninsula. This little baby seahorse was seen floating about in the open water of Port Phillip Bay, a new feature in ways as the typical location to see such a thing in our experience is in close proximity to the haven of piers and jetties. A beautiful sight to see further afield on this occasion. . . . . #seahorse #grass #portphillipbay #temperatereef #morningtonpeninsula #underwatervideo #uwvideo #mynikonlife #greatsouthernreef #seeaustralia #wandervictoria #freedivingphotography #freediving #skindiving #wildswim #sorrento_village #autumn

12.01.2022 The beautiful thing about our often overlooked Port Phillip Bay is the surprise encounters that emerge during the every day. Even on a cold winter's day in the cool water temperatures, to be delighted by the presence of a Giant Cuttlefish during an impromptu swim, it opens your eyes up to an even bigger world of fascination. How fortunate are we here in Victoria to enjoy the rich diversity of the Great Southern Reef! ... Snapped by your host @marlon_quinn on @nikonaustralia #AW130 compact underwater camera in southern Port Phillip Bay. . . . . . #cuttlefish #morningtonpeninsula #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #mynikonlife #greatsouthernreef #visitmelbourne #wandervictoria #holidayherethisyear #australia #yourhappyspace #clickforvic #underwater #freedivingphotography #padifreediver #uwphoto #snorkeling #ecotours #boattour

12.01.2022 *Duck Dive* Have you ever sought to slip under the surface, quietly, softly, without even a splash? You won't find much better technique than the perfect form of a dolphin as it moves from the surface to dive deep under the water.... Dolphins, seals, whales, and humans, we're all buoyant on the surface, and with the air inside of us float freely. To dive underwater all of us have to overcome this buoyancy. This means using a combination of movement and body positioning to limit the buoyant forces and maximise our plunge. It's not about lots of force, kicking, splashing and fuss, as the dolphins demonstrate so gracefully. The arching of the back, as if folding in half, like the beginning of a hand stand, or touching your toes, you can see this shape in the dolphin. The more vertical the body becomes, the less surface area that pushes through the water, so there's less resistance. By going head first, the buoyant air cavity leads first, with the heavier dense part of the body then above, helping to force downwards with its weight. And this is all without even kicking yet! As the momentum of the arrow-like formation draws us downwards like an anchor, then a few kicks help in sustaining the drive and pace of the descent. Until the point of negative buoyancy, where motionless, you float freely downwards like a slow-motion skydive or free-fall. For dolphins this depth is around -20m, and for us, about -10m. Next time you're snorkelling with friends, think and be like a dolphin when you slip softly and effortlessly duckdiving under the surface. . . . #dolphin #morningtonpeninsula #duckdive #snorkeling #ecotour #wildswimming #visitvictoria #freediving #bottlenose #sorrento_village #seeaustralia #holidayherethisyear #visitmp #stayclosegofurther

11.01.2022 Whilst we're fortunate to share the waters of Port Phillip Bay with the Australian Fur Seals, even swimming with these exceptional animals on tour, unfortunately from time to time we also see the stark negative human impact on these charismatic local wild animals. Yesterday teenage tour guest Phoenix pointed out this young seal which has been snared by fishing hook and line in it's back and subsequently been wrapped sinker and all around its hind flippers. Fortunately in Vict...oria we have the Marine Response Unit (MRU), supported by @zoosvictoria , @delwp_vic , and @parksvic , which responds to injured or distressed wildlife including seals, dolphins, whales, seabirds and turtles. We logged a call with the unit right away and were able to share the location, status and images with the response team to determine an action response. The MRU is a publicly available service and it is recommended that should you encounter a marine animal needing help, contact the team on 1300 245 678 to notify the team. Be aware that injured wildlife can act differently when threatened, even dangerously, so it's best to monitor from a distance and contact the MRU for the most appropriate response for the animal in distress. . . . . #seal #injured #marinelife #marineresponseunit #environment #portphillipbay #furseal #conservation #protection #custodians

10.01.2022 It's fair to say maybe that even sea creatures have off days. This forlorn looking little seahorse doing its best to slink away into the shadows quietly. During a recent plunge the keen eye of Jules @onebreathdiver spotted this seahorse on the sea bed and Marlon snapped away on the compact @nikonaustralia #W300 underwater camera before the little creature was left to rest.... . . . . . #seahorse #freediving #freedivingphotography #greatsouthernreef #uwphoto #visitmp #portphillipbay #tusadiving #padifreediver #mynikonlife #nikonw300 #seeaustralia #visitvictoria #snorkelling #snorkeltrip #dive #autumn #instamelbourne

09.01.2022 After 7 months in lockdowns who doesn't feel like a bit of a chameleon? It's time to reveal those colours again and discover all the wonderful things beyond 5 kms, 25 kms and wherever your inspiration takes you! Please be invited to join us on tour in the very pretty region of Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. ... Online bookings and gift vouchers now available. watermaarq.com.au During a brief reprieve from restrictions in July, this giant cuttlefish encounter in Port Phillip Bay was one of those deeply satisfying marine life experiences. Tour Host @marlon_quinn explains it was because of the mutual curiosity shared between the cuttlefish and he. Both motionless hovering over the reef, at times swept forward and back by the surge, like mythical martial artists seemingly suspended in the air. Establishing a familiar rapport and trust enabled this image, barely hands distance from this beautiful creature. Snapped freediving on @nikonaustralia #AW130 compact camera and edited with @adobecreativecloud . . . . . #cuttlefish #portphillipbay #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #mynikonlife #uwphoto #morningtonpeninsula #padifreediver #freediving #freedivingphotography #australia #wandervictoria #holidayherethisyear #apnea #underwater #skindiving #greatsouthernreef #snorkelingtrip #sorrento_village

09.01.2022 Enjoy a little piece of our wonderful underwater world at home and in your daily life with these new designs by your WaterMaarq host @marlon_quinn . Coming soon to the @WaterMaarq Shop. Designs feature real images and moments experienced in the daily goings on in and around the sea. No stock images used, it's the real deal.... Choose from lovely gift ideas or useful products to enjoy and admire in your daily life: Coffee mugs, tote bags, art prints, mobile phone cases and wallets, drink bottles, backpacks, notebooks, throw pillows and more. Thanks for supporting local business and designs that we hope evoke your spirit of connection with the unique beauty of our environment. #giftideas #designs #morningtonpeninsula #ocean #sea #creative #homewares #gifts #seadragon #weedyseadragon #smallbusiness #local #supportlocal #sorrento_village

08.01.2022 You can't buy an App for this. Swimming side by side a 350kg Smooth Stingray, the largest species in Australia. Right here on tour in Port Phillip Bay beside the Mornington Peninsula.... No feeding, no taming, only real, authentic, ethical wildlife interactions. Visit us online at watermaarq.com.au for boat tour, freediving course, general information and bookings. . . . . . #ecotour #stingray #holidays #summertime #underwater #snorkeling #freediving #visitmp #visitvictoria #seeaustralia #wildlife

08.01.2022 The vibrant colours of the Leatherjacket fish species are always a talking point, such is the disbelief something so colourful could be swimming about in Port Phillip Bay. A whole other world exists out there under the surface ready to be discovered as easily and simply with a mask and snorkel. Leatherjacket are a species endemic to southern Australian waters, meaning you'll only find them in those waters. Snapped in Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park on @nikonaustrali...a #AW130 underwater compact camera by host @marlon_quinn . . . . . #leatherjacket #fish #morningtonpeninsula #wandervictoria #australia #snorkeling #freediving #snorkellingtrip #snorkelingtrip #ecotour #holidayherethisyear #mynikonlife #underwaterphotography #uwphoto #padifreediver #boattour #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #portphillipbay #greatsouthernreef

08.01.2022 Protected in some State waters, the species of the Common or Weedy Seadragon, native to Australia, measuring up to 45cm in length can often be illusive on the reef, even to the keenest of well trained eyes. Imagine then trying to spot a juvenile swaying about the seaweed in size of 2, 5, 10 or even 15cm long? It can happen! ... Late summer is the tail end of the breeding season with individuals bearing up to 250 eggs. It will be one year before a newly hatched seadragon matures. In our local reef it's thought that potentially up to 50 breeding pairs exist, giving rise to the idea that thousands of young seadragons are romping around the reef year after year. Sadly it's not so. Patience and persistence is the long game when it comes to marine life. To see this juvenile moving with the surge and pull of the tide took two months of searching in countless plunges, such is the crafty well-camouflaged and shy nature of these mysterious creatures. Worth every bit of the wait though! And certainly a prime feature of our snorkelling tours that run Oct-Apr each year. . . . . #seadragon #weedyseadragon #greatsouthernreef #portphillipbay #visitvictoria #visitmp #marinescience #marinelife #uwphoto #dive #underwater #temperatereef #freedivingphotography #morningtonpeninsula #autumn #seeaustralia #snorkelling #snorkeltrip #ecotour #ecofriendly #ecotourism

07.01.2022 Imagine being a big flat shark with wings that soars and roams the depths and shallows with all the grace, flair and poise of a dancer. It's a joy to spend time observing these humble yet curious largest Australian stingray species as they glide around Port Phillip Bay. Some of our favourite moments on tour are because of time shared with these curious and rather massive rays.... . . . . . #smoothray #stingray #portphillipbay #greatsouthernreef #morningtonpeninsula #uwvideo #underwater #freediving #snorkeling #freedivingphotography #australia #raysawareness

07.01.2022 Who else can't wait for the winter clouds to lift and the warm sun to shine again ?

07.01.2022 It's been a while since the day commenced like this! They're not far away though. We'll be enjoying the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula's waters and glorious coastline again soon enough.... Life is just one big adventure isn't it?! . . . . . #findyourwaymorningtonpeninsula #ecotours #boating #boattour #sorrento_village #portphillipbay #wandervictoria #visitmelbourne #samsunglife #adventure

05.01.2022 Guests often joke that they'd like to take home one of the entertaining and playful puppy-like Fur Seals that we swim with on tour in Port Phillip Bay. And now you can! Uber-entertaining WaterMaarq Snorkel Guide Jack Breedon is now offering his dynamic range of marine life images in print.... Check out all the possibilities over at Meet Me Underwater and support Jack's fine creations.

04.01.2022 WaterMaarq Tours is seeking interest from suitably qualified casual skippers / coxswains to assist with marine tourism snorkelling boat tours on a casual basis, based in Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula, VIC. CASUAL SKIPPERS AND COXSWAINS Prospective skippers must have or be ready to hold:... - Current Coxswain 1NC qualification or greater - Radio Operators licence - Commercial experience as skipper or qualified deckhand or crew; appropriate training provided for new personnel - Hospitality or Tourism experience preferred - A keen interest and desire to learn and share information on local marine life, geology, history and conservation/sustainable values - First aid certification - Working with Children Check - Marine science or outdoor education background is preferable, but not essential - Port Phillip Heads local knowledge endorsement is preferable, but not essential WaterMaarq is a Victorian tourism leader, holding multiple awards for its delivery of tourism services across dolphin and seal boat tours, snorkelling adventures and freediving education. We deliver small group tours up to 12x guests only, and guests enjoy the more personalised and face-to-face experience this provides. We have been fortunate to work with highly professional and well-presented crew who represent our region as not only stand-up representatives of WaterMaarq, but also custodians of our unique region and sensitive marine life and habitats. We invite you to seek to join us on this development journey. The tour season runs predominantly October - May each year and we seek applications from individuals that can commit to this timeline and weekend work hours. We are encouraging of applicants that have other commitments and interests as it sustains ongoing development, stimuli and energy levels. Please apply via email in the first instance, with subject heading "Enquiry: Casual Skipper / Coxswain" to info (at) watermaarq (dot) com (dot) au . Contact details are also available at the website. Thank you for your interest and attention. WaterMaarq watermaarq.com.au

04.01.2022 For captivating colour, mystique and brilliance that boggles the eyes as your mind wonders how such a creature ever came to exist, the cuttlefish surely has everything going for it! Roaming Port Phillip Bay's waters, seeing one up close and settling in for a few moments eye to eye is like diving into the pages of your favourite aquatic sci-fi book, except it's real. . .... . . . #cuttlefish #cephalopod #greatsouthernreef #portphillipbay #mynikonlife #morningtonpeninsula #visitmp #visitvictoria #seeaustralia #underwater #uwphoto #tusadiving #padifreediver #freedivingphotography See more

04.01.2022 Drop on in to Port Phillip Bay, there's always something new to discover. What does a typical day in the life of tours offer? There's no hour or day that's the same! It's a dynamic and exciting environment, the only predictable part is the tour departure and return times, the in between is an incredible display of nature and all its wonderment.... The last days we've supported @birdlifeoz researchers studying vulnerable Fairy Tern species which resulted in identifying favourable advancement of the population which was a true delight! We hosted the coming together of newlyweds and the first reunion in 7 months for the in-laws all the way from Orange NSW as they commenced sharing their new life out of lockdown and watched as bottlenose dolphins cruised by in near perfect calm afternoon conditions. 87 year old Val joined us with daughter Fiona as they finally had the opportunity to explore beyond the city limits and observe the spectacle of the Australasian Gannets mating rituals as prospective suitors flew in with seaweed gifts to their potential mates. It's a life of colour, untold beauty and memories that develop by the minute on Port Phillip Bay. There's nothing typical about being in Nature, please join us on tour and learn about the secrets of Port Phillip Bay. . . . . #tourism #ecotour #ethical #sustainable #portphillipbay #research #withgalaxy #samsunglife #visitmp #dolphins #birdlife #birdwatching #morningtonpeninsula #boating #boattour #snorkelingtrip #greatsouthernreef

02.01.2022 Beauty is exhibited in all colours, shapes and forms, and nowhere is this better showcased than in Port Phillip Bay. These Aequorea Jellyfish bobbing around in the shallows are stunningly beautiful as the sunlight illuminates their Martian-like forms under the surface of our cool temperate waters. This individual was just under 15cm wide, but would you believe they grow to 1.5m wide and more! ... Found inshore and to depths of 2000m they have stories to tell that we could never yet know. The North American species, sometimes called the crystal jelly, but formally known as Aequorea Victoria (not to be confused with our local Victoria, Australia species), show off even more with their bioluminescent qualities. Our own Great Southern Reef species shown here in the video are also a bit fancy, producing a fluorescent protein used by many scientists in biomedical research. Are they harmful? No they're not dangerous to humans, in so far as long as you don't get so distracted and engrossed by them you unwittingly lose all track of time! . . . . #aequorea #jellyfish #morningtonpeninsula #portphillipbay #morniterranean #greatsouthernreef #mynikonlife #wildswim #snorkelingtrip #wildlife #underwatervideo #underwater #freediving #freedivingphotography #visitmelbourne #wandervictoria #holidayherethisyear

02.01.2022 A return to heavy restrictions due to the increased risks associated with COVID-19 in Victoria isn't anyone's preference, but we can as a community do this. We'll get there! Just before restrictions were tightened, your WaterMaarq RIB Pilot and Host, Marlon, enjoyed a splash into the very clear 11c waters of Port Phillip Bay. It was a nice reminder that despite what outwardly might seem difficult and cold challenging snorkelling conditions in the middle of winter, there is a...lways beauty to behold. Many thanks to @kerryanneborgula for the beautiful photo. Whilst restrictions remain in force WaterMaarq is currently unable to provide our regular boat tour services. We can't wait to welcome you aboard for a seal and dolphin adventure as soon as we are able. Stay healthy everyone and enjoy wonderful visions of fun adventures in the big blue! . . . . . #adventure #waterlust #wanderlust #nature #livelife #ocean #sorrento_village #coast #beach #snorkeling #seeaustralia #freediving #morningtonpeninsula #padifreediver #happiness #dive #uwphoto #tusadiving #underwater #discoverocean #oceanlife #australia #underwaterphotography #saveourseas #oceanlove #travelphotography #travelling #travel #greatsouthernreef

01.01.2022 Stingrays get such a bad wrap in some quarters these days, but really they're a symbol of gracefulness. Finding the balance between their lives and ours, when face to face you can only admire their cool, calm and intently curious presence. The balance is so much easier to find when you have well developed freediving skills, as freediver Kristen shows.... Learn more about this beautiful underwater art of diving on one breath on a WaterMaarq PADI Basic Freediver course. The next one is scheduled for Sat 5th June 9.30am-2.30pm in Cheltenham VIC. Bookings: watermaarq.com.au A cool late autumn plunge in Port Phillip Bay, freediving with fish, seals and giant Smoothrays. . . . . . #freedivingphotography #freediverlife #freediver #stingray #padifreediver #freedivingcourse #freediveschool #portphillipbay #uwphoto #morningtonpeninsula #tusadiving #mynikonlife