The Southern Ocean is perilous, unpredictable and uncompromising. Some local knowledge and a reliable craft that is adequate to the conditions are essential for any ocean foray. Fishing, scenic cruises and private charters are available.
Boat launching in the ocean is via a crane off Port Campbell Pier (license required) and via a steep boat ramp west of Peterborough.
Princetown
Gellibrand River
Location: Boat ramp near the Gellibrand River bridge on old Coach Road West.
Surface: Gravel and sand
Caution: Lots of swimmers frequent the area in summer take care reversing in the small car park and observe the 5 knot limit. Low clearance under the bridge means upstream access is dependant on tide and water level. No ocean access!
Port Campbell
Port Campbell pier (licence required)
Location: Only launching is via crane off the pier (crane license is required for operation)
Surface: Bitumen ramp and concrete to lift off area.
Caution: All pier users need to be aware of pedestrians and reversing vehicles
Peterborough
Curdies River
Location: Boat ramp on Dory street near the Holiday park.
Surface: Concrete
Caution: Contact the Great Ocean Road Tourist Park for current information on estuary conditions and navigability.
Great Ocean Road Tourist Park listing
Peterborough General Store Listing
Boat Bay: (ocean)
Location: Boat Bay turnoff west of Bay of islands 6km west of Peterborough
Surface: Concrete onto Sandy Beach
Caution: Narrow steep boat ramp requires users to reverse for 60m with little margin for error.
Curdievale
Curdies River (upstream)
Location: Western bank upstream of the bridge
Surface: Concrete ramp
Caution: Swimmers frequent the area in summer please take extra care particularly around the diving board. High speed craft in a narrow ski lane south of the bridge.
Camperdown
Lake Bullen Merri
Location: South Beach
Surface: Concrete ramp and mooring facility
Caution: Please adhere to speed limits and respect other vessels and lake users
Lake Purrumbete
Location: Use entrance to caravan park, the ramp has been recently renovated for better access when water levels are low.
Surface: Concrete ramp
Caution: Please adhere to spped limits and respect other vessels and lake users take particular caution when water levels are low.