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Rottnest Island tours
Rottnest Fast Ferries Round-Trip Tickets: Rottnest Island to/from Perth or Fremantle with Optional Bike Hire
- A 30-min ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Enjoy a day off the coast of Western Australia with return ferry transfers.
- No need to be a morning person! The ferry departs on a flexible schedule, plus ditch the baggage claim – store your luggage on the ferry and chill.
- The Rottnest ferry isn't just a ride, it's a wildlife adventure! Keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand's fur seals, seabirds, humpback whales, and dolphins!
- Feel the wind on your face and discover more corners of the island than you can on foot. Upgrade your ticket for a bike and cycle your way around the island.
- Channel your inner Indiana Jones and explore hidden coves. Explore shipwreck sites and say hi to furry quokkas that have been selfie-snapped with the likes of Margot Robbie.
Inclusions
- Round-trip ferry transfers to Perth/Fremantle
- Entry to Rottnest Express boat
- Luggage storage
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Bike hire (optional)
- Tip: You may spot long-nosed fur seals basking and playing in the water from the viewing platforms at Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh.
- Facilities: Luggage storage, pram/stroller accessible
- Guide dogs are allowed onboard. However, as Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve you should contact the rangers there for further advice on service dog allowance.
- Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
- Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
- 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
- No ‘piggy-backing’ of luggage is permitted (eg: attaching a sleeping bag to a suitcase).
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Craving a tour packed with sunshine, scenery, and the cutest marsupials on earth? Go for the Rottnest Island guided trip, complete with ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle.
- Hop on a comfy, AC bus for a 90-min tour while your guide regales you with the tales of Rottnest's indigenous history, military past, and unique flora and fauna.
- As you circle the island, admire views of the Wadjemup Lighthouse. Breathe in the fresh ocean air and soak up the vastness of the Indian Ocean.
- Stop by West End and take a quick stroll down the boardwalk to meet adorable quokkas with their permanent grins, offering a chance for a once-in-a-lifetime photo.
Inclusions
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- 90-minute guided island tour
- AC bus
- Round-trip ferry transfer to Perth/Fermentle
- English-speaking guide
Exclusions
- Snorkel equipment
- Bike rental
- Tip: Make sure to bring your swimsuit and dive into the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
- Lockers are available for hire at the back of the Visitor Centre should you need to store luggage or bags during your visit.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs are allowed onboard. However, as Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve you should contact the rangers there for further advice on service dog allowance.
- Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
- Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
- 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
- No ‘piggy-backing’ of luggage is permitted (eg: attaching a sleeping bag to a suitcase).
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- A short ferry ride along the Swan River from Perth and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Gear up for a full-day cycling tour exploring this idyllic escape!
- Pack a nice lunch, then choose from the incredible bays and beaches. Your other task for the day is to spot a quokka— a small marsupial only found on the island.
- Pedal towards the rugged West End and explore the beauty of Rottnest with a scenic walk along the boardwalk. Get ready for some insane coastal panoramas!
- Upgrade your ticket for a snorkel experience and explore one of Western Australia's best coral reefs with all the equipment you need.
- Spot turtles, encounter pods of dolphins, and with a bit of luck, witness humpback whales during their annual migration.
Inclusions
- Day tour of Rottnest Island
- Self-guided tour
- Return ferry transfers to Rottnest Island from Perth
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Bike hire with helmet and security lock
- Snorkel equipment (optional)
- Tip: If you like a touch of mystery with your underwater explorations, grab your mask, snorkel, and head straight to Henrietta Rocks.
- Guests under the age of 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Bikes with baby seats can be requested and are subject to availability.
- Children's bikes are suitable for children between the ages of 4 to 7. Children aged 7 or older can usually use adult-sized bikes.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Glide through 7000-year-old Rottnest Island on a Segway tour with a knowledgeable local guide and convenient return ferry transfers.
- Discover the island's military history at Bickley Battery and Jubilee Lookout, unveiling Rottnest's strategic role in World War II.
- Soak in the beauty of this nature reserve with its pristine beaches and bays, boasting vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes.
- Make your tour unforgettable by capturing an endearing quokka selfie, and explore other photo spots to snap up lifelong memories.
- Choose your ferry departure from Fremantle or Perth for a smooth and convenient island getaway.
Inclusions
- Rottnest Island Segway Tour
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Local guide
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth (optional)
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle (optional)
- Protective helmets
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
From Fremantle
- 9:00am: Ferry departs B Shed, Fremantle
- 9:30am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
- 12:30pm: 1.5-hour Fortress Adventure Segway commences from The Settlement.
- 2:00pm: Tour concludes back at The Settlement - Free time
- 4:00pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
- 4:30pm: Ferry arrives at B Shed, Fremantle
From Perth
- 8:30am: Ferry departs Pier 3, Barrack Street Jetty
- 10:00am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
- 12:30pm: 1.5-hour Fortress Adventure Segway commences from The Settlement.
- 2:00pm: Tour concludes back at The Settlement - Free time
- 4:15pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
- Tip: Maintain a respectful distance with quokkas, let them approach you, and resist the urge to feed them.
- Children under 12 and guests weighing below 45kg are not permitted to participate in this tour.
- This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
- The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments.
- Pets are not allowed on this tour.
- Guests can bring one carry-on item on board per person.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- A quick ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle whisks you off to Rottnest Island, a paradise waiting to be explored. With the return ferry included, enjoy a day on the Western Australian coast.
- On your scenic cruise down the Swan River from Perth, listen to onboard commentary about the local history, hidden gems, and fascinating attractions.
- Your ticket includes a 90-minute Eco Express boat tour to the island’s wild side where you can see the rugged coastline and see New Zealand Fur Seal Colony out at Cathedral Rocks.
- Unwind as the turquoise waters of Basin and Parakeet Bay lull you into serenity and take a broadwalk to meet the island's absolutely cuddly residents–quokkas.
- Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, playful pods of dolphins, and, if you're lucky, majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.
Inclusions
- Day tour of Rottnest Island
- Return ferry transfers to Fremantle/Perth
- Rottnest Island admission fee
- 90-min Eco Express boat tour
Exclusions
- Guided tour
- Hotel drop-off
- Tip: Pack a delicious picnic and find a scenic spot overlooking the ocean or nestled among the island's picturesque landscapes.
- Guests under 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Guests under 4 cannot participate in this experience.
- Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
- Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
- 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Why visit Rottnest Island?
- Sun and sand: Made up of sandy beaches and rocky bays that open out to turquoise and deep blue waters, Rottenest Island is perfect for a day of swimming and sunning.
- Adventure island: Rottnest Island tours offer you fun ways to explore the island. There are segway, boat and bicycle tours. You can also spend time here snorkelling, fishing, diving and hiking.
- Quokka encounters: Roaming freely all around the island, the quokkas are small, marsupials that make for an adorable sight.
- History on segways: Discover the 7000-year history, Aboriginal ties and World War II structures of the island as you zip around on segways.
- Catch a shipwreck: Over 13 ships have met an unfortunate demise around Rottenest Island and some like the Shark, near Henrietta Rocks, and Uribes, near Philip Point, are easily accessible.
- Salt lakes: Discover 12 salt lakes that are even saltier than the sea and feature rich bird and plant life.
What Rottnest Island tour should I pick?
If you’re with kids
Go For: Fast ferry tickets
Duration: Flexible
Transfers: Yes
Guide: No
- Offering flexible timings, the fast ferry will give you quick access to Rottnest Island so you can make the most of your trip.
- Get a comfortable experience with pick-ups from hotels in Perth and Fremantle.
Recommended tours:
If you are an adventurer
Go For: Adventure boat tour
Duration: Full-day tour
Transfers: Yes
Guide: No
- Cycle the length and breadth of the historical island discovering sandy beaches, salt lakes, and shipwrecks.
- If you prefer to roam the waters instead, sign up for the Adventure Boat Tour - a 90-minute ride that takes you through the gorgeous waters around the island.
Recommended tours:
If you are a history buff
Go For: Guided tours
Duration: Full-day tour
Transfers: Yes
Guide: Yes
- Walk through the streets of the island learning about the history of the place, admiring its abundant natural beauty and meeting up with quokkas.
- If you want an extra dose of thrill, you can also sign up for tours on segways.
Recommended tours:
Cancellation policy
- Most Rottnest Island tours allow you to cancel the tickets 24 hours before the start of the tour. Check your tickets while booking for accurate cancellation information.
Rottnest Island highlights
Segway tours
Strap on your helmet, hop on your segway and glide past sand dunes and historic streets to explore Rottnest. On these unique, eco-friendly adventures, stop by Thompson Bay thronged by beach bums, grab a pint at one of the island’s OG bars and swing by military landmarks like Bickley Battery and Jubliee Lookout that were part of the World War II efforts.
Hiking trails
Leave the sunny beaches behind and take any of the five marked-out hiking trails on the 45 kilometres of roads on the island. Choose from a variety of trails like Gabbi Karniny Bidi that introduces you to the intrinsic lake system or the short Karlinyah Bidi that takes you to the northern coasts. Ngank Wen Bidi that loops through Narrow Neck and Ngank Yira Bidi talks about the history of the island, including its naval gun bases.
Beaches
Rottnest’s gorgeous waters lapping against jagged, limestone bays and fine-sand beaches bring in swimmers, snorkelers and divers. Explore the popular Basin, Geordie Bay and Pinky Beach. For a more serene outing, head to Parakee Beach, Fish Hook Bay and Mary Cove. The waters are home to 400 different species of fish, green turtles, and western rock lobsters that make their way through piles of seaweed and coral.
Salt lakes
Twelve, large salt lakes dot the north-eastern bit of Rottnest Island. Even though they are highly saline, the lakes boast unique plant life and a wetland ecosystem that nurtures life. Walk on cleverly constructed boardwalks that give you the feeling like you are walking on water. In summer, many of these lakes transform into pink and white salt pans that are worth stopping by especially if you have a weakness for spectacular sunsets.
Shipwrecks
As if a standing testament to its rich naval history, the coasts of Rottnest Island are populated with shipwrecks that can be easily explored by snorkelers. At Henrietta Rocks, swim along with tiny schools of fish to make your way to the seaweed-laden ‘Shark’ shipwreck that is a short swim from the shore. Another easily accessible wreck site is Uribes that stands close to the beachfront at Philip Point.
Quokkas
A protected wildlife sanctuary, Wadjemup - the Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island - is home to diverse creatures including the quokkas, bats, and migratory birds. Chief among these are the quokkas - that look like smaller versions of kangaroos - and populate the island. At Rottnest, these creatures roam freely and you can get close enough to get an adorable picture. However, touching or petting the animals can attract huge fines so steer clear!
Navigating Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is a 19 km island that is just off the coast of Perth. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. There are many ways to get to the island from Perth, including ferry, air taxis, and boats.
By ferry
By air
Other transports
Getting around
Closest ferry stop: Rottnest Island
- Perth: Barrack Street Jetty (90 minutes to Rottnest Island)
- Fremantle: Victoria Quay (25 minutes to Rottnest Island)
- North Fremantle: Rous Head (25 minutes)
- Hillarys Boat Harbour: (45 minutes)
To get the most value for your money, we recommend you sign up for a Rottnest Island tour that includes ferry rides.
For those of you looking to arrive in style, there are several flight options to Rottnest Island.
Rottnest Air-Taxi: This is a 10-minute flight available every day from Perth.
Corsaire Aviation: Take a thrilling helicopter ride that gives you the chance to look out at Rottnest Island’s spectacular landscape from above. Daily departures from Jandakot Airport, Crown Towers, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour are available.
Air Charters West: These luxurious private charters take off from Bunbury Airport. The short, 30-minute flight includes a champagne breakfast.
Swan River Seaplanes: These are seasonal sightseeing planes available from Perth. The 20-minute flights offer sweeping views of Perth and the expansive sea before landing in Rottnest Island.
By boat
Private Boats are allowed to travel to Rottnest Island and dock at several points. However, they do attract larger fees. Do check out the Rottnest Island Authority website for detailed information.
By car
Rottnest Island is primarily a car-free island. There are few asphalt roads and connectivity on the island is mostly on foot, segways, bikes and buses. There is no road that leads directly to the island either, so you will be unable to access Rottnest Island by car.
Since Rottnest Island is car-free, visitors rely on other modes of transport to make their way around the island. You can pick from:
Bikes: Once you get off the jetty, you can head to Pedal & Flipper Hire to hire out bikes. They have a range of bikes. However, we recommend you hire out an e-bike as it simplifies navigating the island’s rugged terrain.
Quokka coaches: These are hop-on and hop-off buses that stop at around 19 points in the island. You can get your tickets at the Main Bus Stop between 8:30 AM and 3 PM and can stop by the island’s key landmarks including Henrietta Rocks, the Lighthouse, and Cape Vlamingh.
Quokka hopper: If you prefer private transfers, you can hire the Quokka Hopper - electric carts - that drives through Thomsan Bay, Kingstown and Geordie Bay. They operate between 8 AM and 10 PM every day and we recommend you make a booking in advance if you want to avoid delays.
Plan your Rottnest Island tour
Timings
Facilities
Accessibility
Food & drinks
Rules
The Island is open throughout the year and on all days of the year.
If you are taking a Rottnest Express Ferry from nearby points, you should know that the first from Perth (towards Rottnest) is at 8:45 AM and the last ferry towards Perth is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the ferries start at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM.
Best time to visit
To experience the best beach life, head to Rottnest Island during the summers (November to January) or even Autumn (March to May). These are the best months to soak in the warm sun and sign up for the long line-up of beach activities. However, prices tend to be on the higher side during these times, especially during summer, and you can expect sizeable crowds even on weekdays. While the wetter and colder months (June to August) are less crowded, the rains and the cold weather might mean that you are stuck indoors.
Restrooms: Available at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.
Showers: Located at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.
Changing rooms: Henderson Avenue and Thomson Bay
Water refill stations: The Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.
Baby changing facilities: Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay
Barbecue facilities: Thomson and Geordie Bays
- Ferries: All ferry services are wheelchair accessible.
- Beaches: Most beaches and bays are fitted with ramps and wheelchair-friendly pathways.
- Toilets: Accessible toilets are available at Visitor Centre, Thomson Bay, Stay Rottnest Campground, The Basin, Geordie Bay, Parker Point, Stark Bay, West End
- Showers: Bedford Avenue and Thomson Bay are equipped with accessible showers.
- Guide dogs: Service dogs are permitted but the local rangers have to be informed in advance since this is a Class A Reserve.
- Accommodation: Discovery Resorts - an island accommodation - offers accessible tents.
- Coaches: Quokka Coaches - the shuttle service around the island - offers wheelchair accessibility.
Dome Cafe: A breezy, pretty-looking cafe by Thomson Bay serving up soups, sandwiches, all-day breakfasts and desserts along with chilled beer and wine.
Lontara: Upscale dining option, near The Settlement, serving Asian flavours and delectable cocktails.
Isola Bar e Cibo: Traditional Italian dishes made from fresh local ingredients, this seaside place is best known for its jumbo prawns, succulent lamb and fresh pasta.
Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery: Located near the busy Geordie Bay, this is a laidback cafe with outdoor seating, serving up hefty burgers, fresh salads, and loaded milkshakes.
- Alcohol consumption: Street drinking is not permitted on the island.
- Camping: Camping is only allowed in designated spots.
- BBQ: Barbecuing is not allowed except in the designated areas.
- Pets: Domestic pets are not allowed on the island.
- Wildlife interactions: Touching wildlife and swimming with long-nosed fur seals is not permitted and attracts heavy fines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rottnest Island Tours
How much does a Rottnest Island tour cost?
The prices of tours to Rottnest Island depend on the experience you are signing up for. Rottenest Island ferry tickets start off at about AU$ 78. And experiences like the bike, segway and boat tours are slotted between AU$ 137 and 208.
How do I book a Rottnest Island tour?
Rottnest Island tours can easily be booked online. There are also multiple options including bike, segway and boat tours.
Why should I book my Rottnest Island tour online?
Rottnest Island tours are best booked online for their various advantages, such as,
- Advanced planning: Rottnest Island is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway and having your bookings in place helps you plan in advance and flesh out the details of your trip.
- Avoid Disappointment: Accessible from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour, the tickets to Rottnest Island can sell out fast on weekends. This is because Rottnest Island ferries are the most popular way to access the island and other tour tickets are limited.
- Convenience: Many of the Rottnest Island ferries and tours offer you the flexibility of fully refundable cancellations up to 24 hours.
What does a Rottnest Island tour include?
The inclusions under the Rottnest Island ticket depend on what you have signed up for. Usually, Rottnest Island ferry tickets will bring you back and forth from the island. However, tour tickets often include to-and-fro ferry rides, pickups from CBD hotels, and specific tour experiences. There are also guided tour options available.
Are there discounts on Rottnest Island tours?
Rottnest Island is a very popular getaway and discounts may not be available. However, Rottnest Island tours often offer great value for money, packing in ferry trips, unique experiences, pick-ups and drops and guided tours in one ticket. You may also enjoy some online discounts while booking that you may not get in offline bookings.
Are there guided tours for Rottnest Island?
Yes, there are! Guided Tours include a tour of the island and an introduction to its history and encounters with its wildlife. There are also guided segway tours that stop by the island’s best-known landmarks.
Can I cancel my Rottnest Island tickets?
A handful of the tours offer cancellations up to 24 hours of the experience. However, the guided tours cannot be cancelled once booked.
What are the timings for Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is open throughout the year and around the clock. However, if you are accessing it from Perth, the first ferry leaves after 8 AM and the last ferry back is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the first ferry is at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM.
How do I get to Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferries from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys Boat Harbour through ferries, and boats. There are also scenic flights available for slightly higher prices. However, there is no car access to the island.
Is it worth visiting Rottnest Island?
Absolutely! Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Rottnest Island is a small but breathtaking island, just off Perth. It offers visitors the chance to dive into its turquoise and blue waters, explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, discover unique wildlife and chill out on sandy beaches.