More about Mornington Peninsula
Why go to Mornington Peninsula?
Whether you enjoy sunning on the beach, exploring quaint villages or vineyard hopping, you'll find it here
The peninsula is large, so if you want to venture beyond the town of Mornington you may have to book a shore excursion
There's a lot to see and do in the area, but you'll need to use your time wisely
Mornington Peninsula Cruise Port Facilities?
The pier and timber fishing wharf are set on the edge of a large, public park. Wander up the hill, and you'll find play equipment for the kids, shady trees, barbecues and restrooms.
If you stand on the wharf and gaze toward land, you'll see a family-friendly beach, complete with a handful of the peninsula's iconic bathing boxes -- private huts where owners store beach equipment.
For other facilities, you need to make the 15-minute walk up the hill and along Main Street, the town's shopping precinct.
If you want tourist information, you'll find the Mornington Courthouse Visitor Centre on the corner of Main Street and the Esplanade. It's easy to recognise the quaint white building set on an expanse of lawn, the Australian flag fluttering on a pole next to it.
Built in 1860, the courthouse was the first public building on the peninsula and as a result, it is an important part of Victoria's heritage. The building was the scene of many courtroom dramas until it was decommissioned in 1988.
Today, it's operated by volunteers who are keen to make visitors welcome. They can answer questions about attractions, direct you to particular shops or give you an insight into the area.
Good to Know?
Mornington is generally a safe and peaceful community, so you can wander the streets freely. However, always be aware of your personal belongings. Don't leave valuables unattended on the beach while you are swimming. Also, be aware of your wallet, purse or mobile phone when you are dining in cafes or walking through crowds, such as at street markets.
Getting Around?
On Foot: If your cruise line doesn't offer a shuttle service up the hill to Main Street, you can walk. If you take your time and enjoy the exercise, it's a pleasant experience and you will be there with 30 minutes, including short breaks to enjoy the view. If you are fit, you can easily reach the road within 15 minutes.
By Bus: Buses run between towns. For guidance, drop into the Mornington Courthouse Visitor Centre (2 Main Street).
By Taxi: You could call a taxi to the pier or find taxis along Main Street in Mornington. Taxis are metered, and most drivers use satellite navigation, which means they will be able to find your destination. They can also give you an estimate of the cost of the fare.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
If you need to top up on cash, you'll find major banks with ATMs on Mornington's Main Street. The same banks also have ATMs in Morning Central shopping mall (78 Barkly Street). Keep the water behind you, walk up Main Street and take the first street on your left. Currency is the Aussie dollar. Visit www.xe.com or www.oanda.com for exchange rates. Major credit cards are accepted at most retail and food and beverage outlets.
Language?
Australian English is the most common language.
Where You're Docked?
Your ship will most likely anchor off the Mornington pier, at the end of Schnapper Point, and tenders will bring you ashore.
The immediate area consists of the main wharf and a picturesque timber fishing jetty. A charming older style wharf facility also houses two eateries. At ground level, you'll find Schnappers, a casual, family cafe that serves takeaway as well as eat-in meals. Think fish and chips, burgers, toasted sandwiches and soup.
Venture around the side of the building that faces the water and you'll see stairs that take you to The Rocks Mornington, a more sophisticated option for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Specialising in modern seafood, it offer superb views of the pier and coastline and keeps you out of the wind on blustery days. (1 Schnapper Point Road; +61 3 5973 5599)