A new $30 million ferry terminal suspended above the waters of Port Phillip Bay has opened in Sorrento, marking the end of a decade long project by Searoad Ferries and delivering one of the most striking new pieces of coastal architecture in Victoria.
The glass walled structure, built entirely on pylons stretching into the bay, officially opened today and is designed to serve as both a transport hub and a destination in its own right. The building effectively floats above the water, offering panoramic views across the bay while welcoming passengers travelling between Sorrento and Queenscliff.
“This has been ten years in the making,” said Searoad Ferries CEO Matt McDonald. “As a privately owned Australian company, we’ve backed this project because we believe in the long-term strength of regional Victoria.”
The Sorrento–Queenscliff route already carries close to one million passengers each year and the new terminal is expected to further boost interest in the service as travellers look for alternatives to busy roads around the bay.
McDonald said the project was designed to improve both the experience and the practicality of travelling between the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas.
“We’ve spent a decade and $30 million delivering infrastructure that offers a genuine alternative to congestion, toll roads and hours behind the wheel,” he said. “If the experience is better, the choice becomes simple.”
A key feature of the terminal is ONDA, a 150 seat Mediterranean restaurant positioned directly above the water. The venue is led by Executive Chef Mike Jaques and Head Chef Toby Marks and will open to diners in mid March.
“Dining directly on the water changes everything,” said Jaques. “You can hear the bay and you can see the movement beneath you. ONDA is about quality local and seasonal produce, in a truly unmatched space.”
Designed by F2 Architecture and built by Maben Group, the terminal also features a spiral staircase, glass floor viewing areas and outdoor decks extending over the bay.
