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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Darren Bradley
NZ

Darren

New Zealand
Oct 2025
5/5
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Our guide leeha was awesome, did everything and so much more great tour guide in every aspect treated everyone as family which was awesome
Harrison Stanford Dicker
AU

Harrison

Australia
Oct 2025
5/5
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This marked the first day of my parents first trip to Western Australia since I moved here late last year. They enjoyed themselves almost as much on the ferry down the Swan River as they did on Rottnest Island. Without this context, it would've been fair to assume that they were on a honeymoon.
Lisa Kustermann
DE

Lisa

Germany
Aug 2025
5/5
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The crew were very helpful. Even without collecting the wristband for the bikes they organised it for us. So we could still discover the beautiful island on bicycles. Of course one of the highlights and reasons coming here are the Quoakkas, and we didn't leave without a selfish. Definitely worth the trip.
James Bennington
AU

James

Australia
Nov 2025
5/5
Every team member we met today was absolutely fantastic, we had an amazing day! The volunteer guide team was great, super knowledgeable and really friendly. Along with the staff who drove the bus and train for the grand island tour! They made the trip fun, and a joy to experience! Rottnest Island is a must see when visiting Perth and it is truly a beautiful place to visit, my wife and I highly recommend the grand island tour.
Dianne T Allen
AU

Dianne

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5
Both the ferry service and the Grand tour were amazing. Island is bigger than I imagined. Saw lots of Quokkas! Both guides were great. Not crowded, easy to get around (with pram). Good facilities. Yummy boxed lunch. I am from Vic, was visiting family in WA. Would go again. Good value. Highly recommended.

Why book Rottnest Island ferry tickets?

Because it’s the only practical way to reach the island

Rottnest is a car-free paradise sitting 33 km off the coast of Perth, and daily return ferries get you there in 30–90 minutes depending on where you board. While you can arrive by private helicopter, seaplane, or air taxi, those options come at a premium cost.

Three departure points

You can depart from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys. Ferry operators vary, but services run frequently from all three terminals. Perth offers the longest and most scenic journey at around 90 minutes, while Fremantle gets you to Rottnest the fastest in just 25–30 minutes.

A comfortable and scenic ride across the Indian Ocean

Expect a smooth trip with big views like Perth’s skyline fading behind you, Fremantle’s historic port, and stretches of sandy coastline and marinas. Ferries offer comfortable seating, refreshments, and wide windows for sightseeing. Departures from Perth include the iconic Swan River cruise route before hitting the open ocean, and if you are lucky, you might even spot dolphins or whales along the way.

Ferry routes to Rottnest Island

From Perth

  • Boarding Point: Barrack Street Jetty
  • Distance: 33km
  • Operated by: Rottnest Express
  • Journey duration: 90 minutes
  • Time slots: 8.45am and 9am

​Book Rottnest Island ferry from Perth

From Fremantle

  • Boarding point: Rottnest Express B Shed Ferry Terminal
  • Distance: 15km
  • Operated by: SeaLink and Rottnest Express
  • Journey duration: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Operating hours: Multiple daily departures starting around 7am, with frequent sailings throughout the day until about 6pm

​Book Rottnest Island ferry from Fremantle

From Hillarys

  • Boarding point: Rottnest Fast Ferries terminal
  • Distance: 26km
  • Operated by: Rottnest Fast Ferries
  • Journey duration: 45 to 50 minutes
  • Time slots: Multiple daily departures starting around 7:30am, with sailings continuing through early afternoon until approximately 5:30pm

​Book Rottnest Island ferry from Hillarys

Highlights of taking a ferry to Rottnest Island

Stunning coastal and ocean views

Sail past Perth’s skyline, glide along the Swan River (on Perth departures), and cross the turquoise Indian Ocean with clear views of Rottnest’s white beaches and reefs as you approach the island.

Island admission included

Entering Rottnest Island requires you to purchase an admission ticket. Thankfully, this fee is already included in your ferry ride, so you don’t need to buy anything extra. Simply arrive, step off the ferry, and start exploring the island’s unique landscapes, beaches, wildlife, and lookout points.

Same-day return

Most ferry tickets let you return to the same departure port i.e., Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys, making day trips seamless. You choose your preferred return time, giving full flexibility to plan your day on the island.

Add-ons that shape your day

Ferry tickets can be bundled with island essentials like bike hire for exploring car-free roads, an air-conditioned guided bus tour, a Segway experience, or even a tandem skydive. These add-ons help tailor your Rottnest adventure exactly the way you want it.

Know before you go

  • Perth ferries from Barrack Street Jetty offer a scenic route along the Swan River before heading into the open ocean, combining city and coastal views.
  • Fremantle departures provide the shortest ferry ride to Rottnest Island in about 25-30 minutes. So if you want more time on the island, then opt for this terminal. 
  • Multiple daily departures run year-round, with increased sailings during summer, weekends, and school holidays to accommodate higher visitor numbers.
  • An exclusive late 9pm return ferry from Rottnest to Fremantle allows people to enjoy evening stays and watch sunsets on the island. You can even stay overnight on the island and take a return ferry the next morning.
  • Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as ferries can sell out quickly.
  • All ferries provide onboard amenities such as comfortable seating, refreshment options, and outdoor decks.
  • When planning your trip, considering departure time, ferry duration, and available facilities at the boarding point can help optimize your Rottnest Island experience.
  • Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, including shaded and open-air areas for scenic viewing during the journey.
  • Onboard refreshment kiosks or cafés offering snacks, drinks, and occasionally light meals.
  • Modern restroom facilities are available on all major vessels for passenger convenience.
  • Secure luggage storage zones and bike racks for travelers bringing personal items or hiring bikes on the island.
  • Accessibility features for passengers with mobility needs, such as ramps, accessible toilets, and staff assistance on request.
  • Bring reef-safe broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect from strong WA sun during the open ferry crossing and island activities.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle as there are refill stations on the island to stay hydrated without buying plastic bottles.
  • Pack comfortable closed shoes or sturdy sandals suitable for cycling and walking on sandy or rocky paths.
  • Take swimwear, a towel, and a lightweight backpack or beach bag for easy carrying of essentials and spontaneous beach stops.
  • Don’t forget your ferry tickets, ID, and any accommodation details, preferably in a waterproof pouch or ziplock to protect from water and sand.
  • Carry light snacks or a picnic lunch if you want flexibility eating outdoors as food options on the island are limited mostly to the main settlement.
  • A small first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medication, is wise as there’s no pharmacy on the island.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island tours

Which departure point should I choose?

Choose based on convenience and travel time: Perth offers a scenic Swan River cruise (90 mins), Fremantle is the quickest (25–30 mins), and Hillarys is a relaxed northern option (45 mins).

Are return times flexible, or do I need to pick them in advance?

Most tickets require selecting a return ferry during booking. Some operators allow free changes if seats are available, but peak season returns often fill up early.

Do ferry tickets include Rottnest Island admission fees?

Generally, yes most ferry operators bundle the government-mandated island admission fee into the ticket price. Always check the inclusion list before booking.

Can I bring my bike or should I rent one on the island?

Some ferries allow transporting your personal bike for an extra fee, but renting on the island is easier and avoids lugging gear through terminals.

How early should I arrive before the ferry departs?

Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure, especially during weekends or school holidays. Boarding closes earlier at Perth’s Barrack Street due to river cruise procedures.

Are ferries wheelchair accessible?

Most modern ferries offer accessible boarding ramps, designated seating, and accessible restrooms. However, accessibility varies slightly by operator and vessel.

Can I book ferry tickets last minute?

Same-day tickets are sometimes available, but morning departures, especially from Fremantle, sell out quickly in summer. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

What happens if the weather is rough? Can ferries get cancelled?

Cancellations are rare, but strong winds or severe conditions may affect schedules. Operators will move you to the next available departure if disruptions occur.