Naturaliste Tours +61 3 5257 4570
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions


 

What should I bring on the tour?
Be prepared for the great outdoors! Comfortable walking shoes or boots, clothing to suit variable weather conditions, sun hat, rain jacket, sunglasses, a small bag is permitted (we do not have room for luggage/suitcases or large backpacks), camera and binoculars for checking out the wildlife!
How can I book?
Tour tickets can be booked online.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Mastercard and Visa. All tour prices are inclusive of GST and Naturaliste Tours reserves the right to alter times and/or fares without prior notice.
Is the tour suitable for children?
All children travellers must be accompanied by an adult. Child booster seats are required for children aged 4-7 years. Child booster seats are available upon request prior to tour departure or the customer may supply their own. Due to the nature of our tours, they are not suitable for children under 4 years of age.
Are there any refreshments provided?
Tours include a meal (either lunch or afternoon tea). We recommend bringing a refillable water bottle.
What sort of vehicle will I be travelling in on the tour?
Taking up to 19 passengers, we tour the island in an air conditioned, purpose built off road tour vehicle. The vehicle is 4WD and does require entering and exiting via fold down steps which require passengers with a good level of fitness. It would not be suitable for those with limited mobility, pregnant or knee/back/neck issues.

Note: The island is only accessible by Ferry. Ferry tickets is included in the price of the ferry.
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
There is a small amount of walking. Entering and exiting the 4WD tour vehicle via fold down steps requires passengers to have a good level of fitness. It would not be suitable for those with limited mobility, pregnant or back/neck issues.
What bathroom facilities are there?
There is bathroom on the ferry and once on the island there are bathroom facilities at the Tankerton, French Island Jetty and at the lunch and morning tea stops.  
Can we do a bespoke private tour?
Yes, we offer private touring on French Island. We can create an itinerary to suit your groups interests. Please call Naturaliste Tours on 5257 4570.
What if I want to stay on the island and take a later ferry?
Yes, if you would like to catch a later ferry back please let our reservations team know at least 48 hours prior to the tour departure. We will be able to send you an updated confirmation with the new ferry time. Please note, however,  Naturaliste Tours will not be responsible should you miss the last ferry or if the ferry cancels due to weather conditions.
What time do I need to arrive at the jetty for boarding the ferry transfer?
Please arrive at the jetty at least 10 minutes prior to departure. The ferry operates on a scheduled timetable and is unable to wait for passengers running late.
Where can I park for the ferry transfer at Stony Point or Cowes?
Street Car parking is available at both Stony Point and Cowes, however, it is not secure and the company does not take responsibility for the cars of passengers left at the piers.
Does the ferry transfer operate in rough weather?
Weather and sea conditions, as well as tidal variations can make operations challenging in this area. In the interest of passenger safety, Western Port Ferries cannot guarantee operations daily in accordance with our timetable. When making a reservation, please ensure that you provide an Australian mobile phone number, so we can reach out to you in the event of a ferry cancellation.
What if the ferry is cancelled and I cannot make the tour?
n the event the ferry is canceled due to weather warnings we are able to reschedule your tour to another day or fully refund 100% of your tour ticket.