The Port of Apollo Bay is a key feature of the town and an important part of the wider Great Ocean Road community. Integral to Apollo Bay’s identity, the harbour generates significant economic benefits, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
About the Port
In 1952, workers redeveloped a pier extending into the bay. Subsequent improvements, including a $1.6 million upgrade of the old timber marina with a floating pontoon system, have enhanced safety and accessibility.
Today, the harbour supports a thriving local fishing industry and a commercial fleet of trawlers, crayfish boats, and charter vessels.
The port is protected by two large breakwaters. The harbour contains a main wharf with leased marina berths and a causeway providing boat access. A sandstone reef lies within the breakwaters, creating shallow areas visible at low tide. The public can access the wharf and breakwaters to spot marine life such as fish, stingrays, and jellyfish, as well as enjoy walking, fishing, and other recreational activities.
Safety Information for Mariners
For up to date information on navigation or berthing, please call: 0418 320 441.
Notice to Mariners
Notices to Mariners for all Victorian waters, including the Port of Apollo Bay, are available via the Victorian Regional Channels Authority website: Notices to Mariners
Port Management Directions
These Port Manager Directions were made by the Authority, exercising the powers of a Harbour Master. The directions are made pursuant to Part 6.4, Functions and Powers of Harbour Masters, of the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic).
The Authority is the appointed Waterway Manager of the Port pursuant to s6 of the Marine Safety Act. Under s44G of the Port Management Act, a port manager of a local port may act as a Harbour Master if no Harbour Master is engaged. There is currently no Harbour Master appointed for the Port, and the Authority performs the Harbour Master functions.
As manager of the Port, the Authority may delegate certain powers to its employees in writing under s44C of the Port Management Act. These directions ensure safe, effective, and compliant management of all harbour activities.
Set Aside Determinations
Under Regulations 10, 12, and 13 of the Port Management (Local Ports) Regulations 2025, a port manager may make determinations to set aside areas where certain activities or conduct are permitted, restricted, or prohibited.
Regulation 14 allows the port manager to specify conditions for the use of these areas under each determination. These set aside areas help manage safety, recreation, and commercial operations within the Port of Apollo Bay.
Port Handbook
This handbook aims to provide visitors, commercial operators, recreational boaters, fishers, and service providers with essential information to assist them in safely and responsibly using the Port of Apollo Bay and its facilities.
Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment
We are delivering the highly anticipated Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment project to enhance safety, access, and services for all harbour users.
For more information on this project, visit: Apollo Bay Harbour Redevelopment
Primary Industry Fishing
The Port of Apollo Bay supports one of the region’s major primary production employers. The local fishing industry generates approximately $6.5 million annually.
The floating marina provides permanent berthing for 29 vessels, including 12 commercial fishing boats. An additional 17 vessels, mostly recreational, occupy swing moorings, while visiting fishing boats can berth alongside the wharf seasonally.
Recreation Opportunities
Visitors to Apollo Bay enjoy a wide range of activities within the port precinct:
- Fishing Designated areas along the wharf and breakwaters are available for recreational fishers holding a Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence: Victorian Fishing Licence
- Walking and sightseeing Watch trawlers return with their catch, charter boats in action, and enjoy walking along the wharf and breakwaters. The views of Apollo Bay, its surrounding hills, and the sunrise over the bay are spectacular.
- Swimming A small, sheltered beach within the breakwaters is ideal for families and young children. Please see set aside determinations for a map.
- Recreational boating A public boat ramp and landing jetty provide access for recreational boating. Boat licences are required, and Victorian boating rules apply. The Apollo Bay Sailing Club, based at the port, offers clubhouse facilities, storage for trailered yachts, and runs an active summer race program for all ages.
- Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co Operative Founded in 1948, the Co Op markets fresh catch from Bass Strait, including abalone, scallops, snapper, gummy shark, and the region’s famous Southern Rock Lobster. Visitors can purchase fresh seafood directly from the boats or enjoy fish and chips overlooking the harbour.
Port Management Services and Operations
Since 1 July 2024, the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has been responsible for managing, operating, and maintaining the Port of Apollo Bay, previously managed by Colac Otway Shire. Funding for operations is provided by the Department of Transport and Planning Victoria, supplemented by port fees.
The Authority provides the following services:
- Dredging The harbour entrance and inner harbour are prone to sand silting. The dredge vessel Apollo maintains safe navigation channels.
- Navigational Aids Maintenance of lead lights and other NAVAIDs ensures safe entry and exit, including at night.
- Marina Berths and Swing Moorings Offered via permits for in water vessel storage.
- Temporary Berth Permits Short term permits for visiting vessels.
- Boat Ramp and Wharf Maintenance Structural repairs and general upkeep to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
- Slipway Operations Available for vessel maintenance, repairs, and marine surveys.
- Pest Control Active management of invasive species such as kelp to maintain a safe and healthy harbour environment.