Meet Valerie
Crafted from rare Huon pine and lovingly restored for modern comfort, Valerie offers an intimate and character-filled way to experience Port Phillip Bay.

Built by the renowned Pompei boatbuilders in Mordialloc during the 1980s, Valerie began life as a Huon pine shark trawler named Le Tigre, working the waters of Bass Strait.
For years, Portarlington Mussel Tours founder Lance Wiffen had dreamed of finding a traditional Huon pine vessel with character, history and beautiful movement through the water. When he found Le Tigre, he knew she was the one.
An extensive refurbishment began on Tasmania’s Tamar River in 2021, led by traditional boatbuilder Rudy Dahn and a small team of highly experienced craftsmen.
Renamed Valerie in honour of Lance’s mother, she now offers guests a warm and comfortable way to experience Port Phillip Bay.

TIMELESS
Craftsmanship
Built With Character
Valerie was constructed from rare Huon pine, a Tasmanian timber prized by generations of boatbuilders for its beauty, strength and longevity. Her traditional timber construction gives her warmth, character and a graceful presence on the water.
Lovingly Restored
Her extensive refurbishment preserved the charm and authenticity of the original vessel while creating welcoming spaces for today’s guests. Beautiful timber details sit alongside modern comforts, thoughtful details and premium finishes.
Intimate By Design
With a maximum of just 12 guests, Valerie offers a relaxed and personal touring experience. Her intimate scale allows guests to move easily between spaces, connect with the crew, watch the cooking demonstrations and enjoy the mussel-farming story up close.
Comfortable in Every Season
Valerie features spacious indoor and outdoor seating, heating and cooling, a working galley and open deck areas with expansive views across Port Phillip Bay. Guests can settle comfortably indoors or enjoy the fresh air outside, and keep watch for dolphins, seabirds and other marine life along the way.
As Featured In
Meet
The Crew

Lance Wiffen
Founder. 4th Generation Farmer. Tour Skipper

Shane Wiffen
3rd generation farmer. Mussel & Oyster Farmer. Tour Skipper

Lizzie Wiffen
The woman behind the family. Chief Curator of Lovely Things.

Connie Trathen
Tour Host, Marketing & everything in between

More than a tour, it's an invitation aboard with the people who've spent over 40 years farming the waters of Port Phillip Bay.
Their stories, passion and local knowledge are what make every experience unforgettable.
The Word
On The Water

Give an Experience
They'll Never Forget
A Portarlington Mussel Tours Gift Voucher is more than a present. It's an unforgettable day on the water enjoying freshly harvested seafood, local produce and authentic Bellarine hospitality.
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, thank-yous or anyone who appreciates great food, wine and memorable experiences.





















































