LAKES COAST VISITOR GUIDE | PAGE 15 WILSONS PROMONTORY Get a front-row view of breathtaking scenery Affectionately known as 'The Prom', Wilson's Promontory is one of the most beautiful, natural and remote areas in the world. This 50,500-hectare national park, located approximately 160 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, is known for its beautiful rainforests, unspoiled beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's home to a wide range of native mammals, including populations of potoroos, gliders, echidnas and possums, as well as the more familiar kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and wombats. Numerous species of birds can be found here, with the most prominent being the rosellas, plus large numbers of emus, migratory wading birds, and predatory birds. The offshore islands provide roosting and breeding sites for seabirds, including an enormous number of Shorttailed Shearwaters. One of the best ways to experience Wilson's Promontory is on a coastal sightseeing cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises. The operator's full-day Wilsons Promontory cruise departs from nearby Port Welshpool, travelling along the eastern coast and southern tip of the marine national park. Natural seclusion The cruise stops over at 'The Prom's' secluded Refuge Cove, where you can enjoy a walk or swim in this hidden cove, which is surrounded by forest, and usually only accessible by overnight hikers and boaties. Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to simply relax on the cove's pristine beach, surrounded by some of the world's most stunning scenery. When the cruise continues, you'll get to see the southernmost tip of the Australian mainland, which is also home to the historic Wilsons Promontory lighthouse, perched above rocky cliffs, and commanding almost 360-degree views of Bass Strait. Playful seals If you came to see marine-life, you will have the opportunity at the Kanowna Island Seal Colony – which is home to thousands of Australian Fur seals. Here you'll be able to watch these playful mammals slide down the steep inclines and dive into the water. Skull rock You'll also visit the monolithic Skull Rock (Clef Island), a towering rock formation shaped like a hollowed skull. An impressive 60 metres tall and 130 metres wide, this island is a sight to behold, and on a calm day, you might even get the opportunity to touch the rock. Limited dates The really is an experience of a lifetime, visiting untouched islands, rugged coastlines, amazing rock formations and spectacular wildlife. These cruises are limited to specific dates during February, March and April, so it's best to book ahead. To book or find out more, visit wildlifecoastcruises.com.au (Pictured clockwise from left): The beautiful, pristine seclusion of Refuge Cove. The amazing Skull Rock is a wonder to behold, especially by boat. The historic Wilsons Promontory lighthouse, perched above rocky cliffs at the southernmost tip of the Australian mainland. PB13957
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