See the island in a new light this summer

We know Phillip Island for its penguins, its surf beaches and the roar of the Grand Prix circuit. But some of its finest moments arrive quietly, out on the water, as the day winds down.

With the warmer months here, there's no better time to discover them aboard Wildlife Coast Cruises' Island Sunset Cruise.

The 105-minute cruise leaves San Remo Jetty about an hour before sunset and glides through the sheltered eastern waters of Western Port Bay on a modern catamaran. Along the way, passengers take in Churchill Island, Reef Island, Elizabeth Island and the southern shores of French Island, views few people ever see from land.

Keep your eyes peeled. Australian fur seals frequent these waters, and the bay's rich birdlife puts on a show of its own.

Light commentary fills in the stories behind the landscape, while live music, a drink from the licensed bar and a complimentary grazing box make it easy to settle in.

Then comes the main event.

As the sun sinks, the bay turns gold, then pink, then deep violet.

The cruise finishes by passing beneath the Phillip Island bridge just as the lights of San Remo flicker on, a fitting full stop to any day of exploring.

And that's the beauty of it. Spend the morning walking the cliffs at Cape Woolamai, the afternoon at Churchill Island's heritage farm or the Nobbies boardwalk, then let the evening unfold on the water.

It's a reminder of why visitors fall for this place, and why locals should never take it for granted.

Cruises run Wednesdays and Saturdays from October to March, with extra sailings in peak periods.

Bookings are essential, so grab a friend, bring a jacket and catch the island at its golden best.

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