Port Phillip is a large, open saltwater bay located in Victoria, Australia, adjacent to the city of Melbourne. It is a significant and popular sea kayaking destination, offering routes that showcase magnificent coastlines. The bay's character is defined by its exposure to wind and weather, making conditions a primary consideration for paddlers. The wind is a key factor, and it is generally advised to avoid paddling in winds over 15 knots until basic sea kayaking skills are achieved. Understanding fetch and lee is crucial for route planning. Sandringham Harbour is a particularly good launch site because it provides a safe, sheltered location to launch and land in lee from all directions. Public kayak launch facilities are located at Anderson Reserve and Clark Reserve. A major hazard for paddlers is The Rip, the narrow entrance from the bay to Bass Strait, which should not be crossed by kayakers. The bay is home to sanctuary zones, such as Ticonderoga Bay, where paddling is permitted. Wildlife sightings can include dolphins. For experienced paddlers, ambitious multi-hour journeys are possible, such as the "Across the Bay in a Day" route, which covers distances from 35.5km to 45km and is designed for intermediate and advanced sea kayakers with skills in self and assisted rescues. This tour concludes at Portarlington. Paddlers should monitor the Port Phillip Local Waters Forecast, MetEye, and Bay Winds X for wind and weather predictions, and Willy Weather for tidal information. Tides are a factor, as indicated by the reference to tide height graphics for Sandringham. Summer is a time for warmer waters. Essential gear for serious sea kayaking includes a sea kayak over 480cm with specific safety features, a spray skirt, PFD, tow line, bilge pump, and communication devices.