Planning your trip
Travelling to the Island
Access to the island is by the Western Port Ferries passenger ferry running daily from Stony Point pier to Tankerton Jetty.
This service also runs from the Cowes pier on Phillip Island to Tankerton Jetty.
The ferry crossing takes about 15 minutes from Stony Point and about 20 minutes from Phillip Island.
The ferry does not carry vehicles, however, free parking is available at the Stony Point Foreshore.
Metro Trains run a service to Frankston with an additional diesel service to Stony Point railway station for the cost of a standard metro ticket. Some trains arriving at Stony Point connect with the ferry service to French Island throughout the day.
The Spirit of French Island barge operates a vehicular ferry from Corinella on the eastern side of Western Port to the barge landing on French Island. It accommodates two standard size cars or a larger truck.
Travelling around the Island
French Island has more than 40 kilometres of unsealed gravel roads and tracks on the island, which are suitable for mountain bikes which can be brought over on the ferry.
The island’s highest point is Mount Wellington (96m).
There is an abundance of walking tracks suitable for bushwalking and bird watching (appropriate footwear is recommended).
General store
The French Island General Store is located approximately one kilometre from Mandalaye Park Estate. It includes the only Post Office on the island.
The General Store offers café style food with dine-in or takeaway options.
Bikes are available for hire and a great way to get around the island.
Naturaliste tours
Naturaliste Tours operates small, 4WD guided tours accessing the French Island National Park and hidden spots. Learn about French Island’s fascinating history, stop at historic sites and lookout points, see wildlife such as koalas and echidnas in their natural habitat. Visit www.naturalistetours.com.au for more information.
The cricket club
The French Island Cricket Club was established over 120 years ago and has been part of the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association since its inception in 1960. The season usually begins on the first Saturday in October and finishes on the last weekend of March.
The club is located on Tankerton Road, approximately 2kms from the Tankerton Pier.
The Vineyard
The French Island Vineyard offers award winning boutique wines made on the island and divine food made from local produce.
The cellar door is open every Sunday from November to March, or by appointment.
