A Day Aboard the Plover: Fishing, BBQ and Dolphin-Swept Views on Port Phillip Bay

MORNINGTON FISHING FIELD GUIDE

A Day Aboard the Plover: Fishing, BBQ and Dolphin-Swept Views on Port Phillip Bay

Private charters on Port Phillip Bay for groups up to 22, running 4–5 hours aboard the roomy Plover—this guide explains what to expect, what’s provided, and how to plan your trip.

A Day Aboard the Plover: Fishing, BBQ and Dolphin-Swept Views on Port Phillip Bay.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Mornington
Operator
Bay Fish N Trips
Category
Fishing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

On Port Phillip Bay, Bay Fish N Trips’ largest vessel, the Plover, becomes a floating clubhouse for families, friends and workgroups—an outing built around a sustained fishing session, mid-trip barbecue and the occasional glimpse of local dolphins amid wide, briny horizons.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE VESSEL

Comfort and Capacity: The Plover

Plover is presented as the largest, safest and most comfortable transport vessel in the Mornington area for fishing and cruising, capable of carrying your whole group and equipped with modern facilities and an attentive crew.

THE FOOD

A Substantial BBQ at Midpoint

Every charter includes a substantial half‑trip BBQ with choices such as a ground beef hamburger, two beef sausages or a gourmet vegetarian patty, plus a lamington cake and light drinks—planned to refuel anglers and socialise the group.

THE EXPERIENCE

Fishing, Photos and Possible Dolphin Sightings

Charters combine a sustained fishing session on Port Phillip Bay with quality Shimano/Abu Garcia gear, expert crew assistance and the possibility of seeing local dolphins—along with plenty of photo opportunities and team‑building options.

What the day feels like

What the Charter Feels Like

For 4–5 hours your group settles aboard the Plover for a focused fishing session on Port Phillip Bay: lines are baited with a wide selection supplied on board, crew provide hands‑on guidance, the middle of the trip pauses for a hearty BBQ and refreshments, and the day closes with a return under sweeping bay light—memories guaranteed even if catch numbers vary.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this charter works for—and who should think twice.

1
Large GroupsIdeal: the charter accommodates up to 22 people, making it well suited to large families, friend groups or small corporate outings who want exclusive use of the boat.
2
Families with ChildrenGenerally a good match: children from age 5 upward are accepted, and the social, supervised environment supports group activities—parents should plan for supervision and follow crew safety guidance.
3
Corporate & Team‑BuildingWell matched: the operator can arrange team building and bonding activities aboard, and the private‑charter format supports corporate functions or celebratory events.
4
Anglers Requiring LicencesImportant to note: adults must hold a Victorian recreational fishing licence (selected concession cards exempt); licences should be purchased in advance (the operator recommends buying the night before due to weather considerations).

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

You may bring your own fishing gear if preferred; otherwise quality Shimano and Abu Garcia rods, reels, tackle and a large range of bait are provided on all charters. Adults should ensure they have a Victorian recreational fishing licence where applicable.

Onboard Provisions

Included on every charter: a substantial BBQ (choose hamburger, two sausages or a vegetarian patty), a lamington cake snack, tea and coffee options, cordial and water, plus friendly professional crew to assist.

Meal Ordering

BBQ protein choices must be ordered at time of booking so the operator can prepare the correct quantities.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the charter?

Charters run for approximately 4–5 hours.

How many people can join?

The Plover can carry up to 22 people for private fishing charters.

Are fishing rods and bait provided?

Yes—quality Shimano and Abu Garcia rods and reels, tackle and a wide range of bait are provided on all fishing charters; you are welcome to use your own gear if you prefer.

Is food and drink included?

Yes—a substantial BBQ (choice of hamburger, two sausages or a vegetarian patty), a lamington cake and light drinks such as tea, coffee, cordial and water are included on all charters.

Do I need a fishing licence?

Adults over 18 are required to hold a Victorian recreational fishing licence (selected concession card holders are exempt); the operator suggests purchasing it the night before the trip because licences are non‑refundable.

Will I definitely catch fish?

No guarantee can be made about species or number of fish; the operator commits to doing their best given the conditions on the day.