What’s included in a ferry ticket?

Most ferry tickets include round-trip transfers and island admission. Some packages also bundle extras like bike hire or guided tours, which are worth booking in advance.

How much time do I get on the island?

Typically, you’ll have between 4 to 8 hours on the island depending on your ferry schedule. Early departures and later returns give you the most flexibility.

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.

Where do ferries arrive on the island?

All ferries arrive at Thomson Bay, which is the main hub with bike rentals, cafés, and visitor facilities.

Are ferries wheelchair accessible?

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

Are ferries affected by weather?

Ferries operate in most conditions, but rough weather can occasionally cause delays or schedule changes. Operators usually provide alternatives or reschedule if needed.

What is the best departure point?

It depends on your priorities. Fremantle is the fastest and best for maximising time, Perth is more scenic, and Hillarys offers a balance between travel time and convenience.

Is Rottnest Island suitable for a day trip?

Yes, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Perth. With short ferry durations and flexible schedules, you can comfortably explore key highlights in a single day.

Can I stay overnight on Rottnest Island?

Yes, overnight stays are possible with accommodation options available on the island. You can choose a return ferry on a different day when booking.

Is it better to take the ferry from Perth or Fremantle?

Choose **Perth** if you're staying in the CBD or want a longer scenic journey that can include a Swan River cruise. Choose **Fremantle** if you want a shorter crossing and more time on Rottnest.

How long is the ferry from Hillarys to Rottnest?

The journey takes around **45–50 minutes**, depending on the service.

Rottnest Island Ferry Tickets: Perth, Fremantle & Hillarys

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Day Trips

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

Explore Rottnest your way from Fremantle—quokkas, The Basin, beaches & lighthouse.

Starting point: Check in at B Shed Terminal, Fremantle, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island
Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle and entry to Rottnest Island, where you can embark on a self-guided tour of the island, exploring at your own pace.
Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the natural pool at The Basin, climb the Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views, and explore Oliver Hill Battery and its historic tunnels.
Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle combines self-guided freedom with optional guided experiences. Spot friendly quokkas, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse, and explore hidden beaches—all in one seamless, hassle-free day.
Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to explore at your own pace, a snorkel hire to discover underwater reefs, or a guided bus tour for a 1-hour 45-minute narrated exploration of the island’s highlights.

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

8 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

All-in-one Rottnest trip: ferry, guided bus ride, and time to roam the island.

Starting point: Check in at B Shed Terminal, Fremantle, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island.
Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle and entry to Rottnest Island. Your day includes a 1-hour 45-minute guided air-conditioned bus tour with live commentary covering the island’s key sights. You’ll also have time for a self-guided tour to explore beaches, bays, and wildlife at your own pace.
Sights covered: Spot quokkas around Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh, relax at The Basin’s natural swimming pool, and take in views from Wadjemup Lighthouse. Pass the island’s scenic northern coastline and salt lakes.
Why choose this: This Rottnest experience combines ease and variety—sail from Fremantle, enjoy a guided bus tour with live commentary, and explore the island freely at your own pace.
Upgrades: Choose the Grand Tour option to add the Captain Hussey Train ride, a guided tour of Oliver Hill’s fortifications and tunnels, and a light lunch (sandwich wrap, cookie, and bottled water).

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

7 hrs 30 mins - 8 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Meals included

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Bikes & Segway

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Bike & Return Ferry Tour

Round-trip Fremantle ferry, island entry & bike hire—your flexible, eco-friendly Rottnest adventure.

Starting point: Check in at Fremantle B-Shed or Northport ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. Cruise across in just 30 minutes and collect your bike, helmet, and lock on arrival for a full day of exploring.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island admission, self-paced bike hire with helmet & security lock, and free time to explore at your own pace.
Sights covered: Ride along coastal trails and past 60+ beaches and 20 bays, stop at Thomson Bay to meet the island’s quokkas, swim at The Basin or Pinky Beach, and cycle to Wadjemup and Bathurst Lighthouses for panoramic views.
Why choose this: A full-day pedal adventure combining ferry, freedom & wildlife; excellent if you want flexibility, scenic views and to explore Rottnest by bike rather than crowd tours.

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

8 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

From Perth: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

Perth-to-Rottnest: scenic city-to-island ferry, guided bus tour, and free island exploration.

Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty, Perth, 30 minutes before departure. Enjoy a scenic Swan River cruise as you sail to Rottnest Island.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth with live commentary along the Swan River, entry to Rottnest Island, and a 90-minute air-conditioned guided bus tour covering the island’s key sights. The tour features expert commentary on Rottnest’s ecology, history, and culture, with additional free time to explore beaches, bays, and wildlife at your own pace.
Sights covered: Spot quokkas around Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh, the island’s West End, and enjoy spectacular ocean views. Pass the northern coastline with salt lakes, visit historic lighthouses.
Why choose this: This Rottnest experience combines ease and variety—sail from central Perth on a relaxing ferry with scenic city-to-island views along the Swan River, take a guided bus tour of Rottnest’s highlights, and explore beaches and lighthouses at your own pace.
Upgrades: Choose the Grand Tour option to include the Captain Hussey Train ride, a guided tour of Oliver Hill’s fortifications and tunnels, and a light lunch (sandwich wrap, cookie, and bottled water).

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

7 hrs 30 mins - 9 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Meals included

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Day Trips

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

Start in Perth, enjoy a Swan River journey, & arrive ready to explore Rottnest’s quokkas & beaches.

Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty, Perth, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth with a scenic Swan River cruise, entry to Rottnest Island, and the freedom to go on a self-guided adventure.
Sights covered: Meet the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the crystal-clear waters at The Basin, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views, and visit Oliver Hill Battery with its historic tunnels.
Why choose this: This Perth to Rottnest day trip combines the convenience of a scenic ferry with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. From wildlife spotting to heritage sites and pristine beaches, enjoy a hassle-free island escape packed with iconic highlights.
Upgrades: Add a bike hire to cycle around the island or join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour for narrated insights into Rottnest’s best sights.

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

9 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

From Hillarys: Rottnest Island Return Ferry

Journey from Hillarys to Rottnest—quokkas, beaches & lighthouse via a faster, less crowded ferry.

Starting point: Check in at Hillarys Boat Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island. Enjoy a scenic cruise across the Indian Ocean before arriving at the island.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Hillarys, entry to Rottnest Island, and ample time to explore at your own pace.
Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, visit The Basin to swim or relax in its iconic natural pool with calm turquoise waters, and climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for views of the island and surrounding ocean.
Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Hillarys combines a scenic ferry ride with plenty of self-guided exploration. Departing from Hillarys means a shorter ferry than Perth, fewer crowds than Fremantle, and easy parking—perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, adventure, and close encounters with the island’s wildlife and natural beauty.
Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to pedal along scenic paths and explore Rottnest Island at your own pace. Alternatively, join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour to enjoy a narrated exploration of the island’s key highlights.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

From Perth: Rottnest Island Bike & Guided Return Ferry Tour

Bike routes you can take

The Rotto Mini Loop

Distance: 4 km
Time taken: 30 minutes
Sights seen: The Basin, Longreach Bay, Geordie Bay, salt lakes, and Vlamingh Lookout.
See route map here.

Beaches, Lighthouses, and Lakes

Distance: 10 km
Time taken: 1.5-3 hours
Sights seen: Henrietta Rocks, Porpoise Bay, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay, Wadjemup Lighthouse, and salt lakes.
See route map here.

The Island Ride

Distance: 22 km
Time taken: 3-5 hours
Sights seen: West End, Cathedral Rocks, Cape Vlamingh, Geordie Bay, Longreach Bay, Stark Bay, Parakeet Bay, and salt lakes.
See route map here.

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Check availability

Book now, pay later

9 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

#From Perth/ Fremantle: Rottnest Island Snorkel Tour with Return Ferry

All-in-one trip: round-trip ferry transfers, snorkeling & exploring Rottnest your way.

Starting point: Check in 30 minutes before departure at your selected terminal, Barrack Street Jetty in Perth or B Shed Terminal in Fremantle. Board your ferry to Rottnest Island, with a scenic Swan River cruise and onboard commentary included on Perth departures.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle, entry to Rottnest Island, and snorkel hire (mask with adjustable strap, snorkel, and flippers.
Sights covered: See Rottnest’s clear-water bays and coral reefs at your own pace. Snorkel in popular spots like The Basin or Parakeet Bay, then explore inland trails, coastal paths, salt lakes, and quokka hotspots on a self-guided island tour.
Why choose this: This experience lets you explore Rottnest both above and below the water without being tied to a schedule. Snorkel where you like and explore the island’s beaches and wildlife on your own terms.
Upgrades: Choose to depart from Perth for a scenic Swan River cruise with onboard commentary, or Fremantle for a quicker crossing and more time on the island. You can also upgrade to include bike hire, making it easy to explore more of Rottnest at your own pace.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Guided Tours

#From Perth/Fremantle: Rottnest Island Segway Tour with Return Ferry

The only Rottnest trip with ferry, entry & expert-led Segway rides along the coastline—no effort needed.

Starting point: Check in 30 minutes before departure at your chosen terminal—Barrack Street Jetty in Perth or B Shed Terminal in Fremantle. Board your ferry to Rottnest Island and get ready for a unique guided Segway experience.
Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle, entry to Rottnest Island, and a segway tour led by an expert guide.
Sights covered: Glide past the island’s historic landmarks, including Bathurst Lighthouse and Thomson Bay. Cruise effortlessly along coastal trails, spotting quokkas, salt lakes, and scenic beaches as your guide shares stories about Rottnest’s history, wildlife, and culture.
Why choose this: This Rottnest experience is perfect for those who want to cover more ground without the effort of cycling. Enjoy live commentary, see hidden viewpoints, and capture memorable photos as you glide across the island.
Upgrades: Choose your departure port—sail from Perth for a relaxing Swan River cruise before hitting the open ocean, or opt for Fremantle for a shorter crossing and more time on the island.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

7 hrs 58 mins - 9 hrs 25 mins

Transfers available

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Guided Tours

#From Fremantle/Hillarys: Rottnest Island Grand Tour with Ferry & Lunch

Best for: History buffs and nature lovers looking for an in-depth, guided exploration of Rottnest Island, with an exclusive train ride and Oliver Hill tour.
Book this if you want: A seamless day trip that covers the island with transportation and lunch, plus explore the remnants of WWII at Oliver Hill.
What's unique: Discover Rottnest Island's wartime secrets. Tour Oliver Hill, its underground tunnels, and the coastlines. Then, relax on a heritage train ride.
Things to include in your visit: The Wadjemup Lighthouse, the 9.2-inch naval gun at Oliver Hill and its Ghost Engine, and the views at Cathedral Rocks.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

7 hrs 15 mins - 7 hrs 30 mins

Transfers available

Meals included

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Top things to do in Perth

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The ferry is the most popular way to reach Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), with services departing from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour. Choose your departure point based on where you're staying, how long you want to spend travelling, and how much time you want on the island.

Fremantle offers the shortest crossing at around 25–30 minutes, while Hillarys takes around 45–50 minutes. The Perth route takes up to around 90 minutes and can include a scenic Swan River cruise. Ferry schedules vary by operator, season and weather, so check your selected sailing when booking.

Ferry tickets at a glance

Feature	Perth	Fremantle	Hillarys
Departure	Barrack Street Jetty	B Shed / Northport	Hillarys Boat Harbour
Crossing	90 min	25–30 min	45–50 min
Best for	Visitors staying in Perth CBD & scenic journey	Shortest crossing	Northern Perth & easy access
Time on island	Depends on sailing	Depends on sailing	Depends on sailing
Return ferry	✓	✓	✓
Island admission	Included in fare	Included in fare	Included in fare
Experience upgrades	Bike, snorkel, tours	Bike, snorkel, tours	Bike, bus tour

Choose your Rottnest Island departure point

The best ferry departure point depends largely on where you're staying and how much travel time you want.

From Perth

Departure: Barrack Street Jetty, Perth CBD
Ferry time: Up to around 90 minutes

The Perth route is convenient if you're staying in central Perth and want to combine your ferry journey with a scenic cruise along the Swan River. It takes longer to reach Rottnest than the Fremantle and Hillarys routes, but the journey itself becomes part of the experience.

Best for:

Visitors staying in Perth CBD
Travellers who want a scenic journey
Combining ferry travel with a day trip

From Fremantle

Departure: B Shed, Victoria Quay, or Northport at Rous Head
Ferry time: Around 25–30 minutes

Fremantle is the shortest ferry route to Rottnest, making it a good choice if you want to maximise your time exploring the island. Multiple operators run services from Fremantle.

Best for:

The shortest crossing
Visitors staying in Fremantle
Travellers prioritising maximum island time
Day trips

From Hillarys

Departure: Hillarys Boat Harbour
Ferry time: Around 45–50 minutes

Hillarys is convenient for visitors staying in Perth's northern suburbs. The crossing is longer than Fremantle but considerably shorter than the Perth route.

Best for:

Northern Perth suburbs
Travellers who want to avoid travelling into Perth CBD
Visitors looking for a convenient alternative to Fremantle

Ferry or ferry + experience: which should you choose?

Choose a...	If you want to...	Recommended for
Ferry ticket	Explore independently	Flexible travellers
Ferry + bike	See more of the island	Active travellers
Ferry + snorkel	Swim and explore underwater	Beach lovers
Ferry + bus tour	See the major sights without cycling	First-time visitors
Ferry + guided activity	Combine transport with an organised experience	Travellers with limited time

Rottnest Island ferry timings

Ferry schedules change depending on the operator, season, day and weather, so visitors should check the timetable for their selected date rather than relying on a fixed daily schedule.

As a general guide:

Fremantle → Rottnest: around 25–30 minutes
Hillarys → Rottnest: around 45–50 minutes
Perth → Rottnest: up to around 90 minutes
Check-in: arrive at least 30 minutes before departure
Final boarding: can close around 5 minutes before departure

If you're travelling with luggage or equipment, allow additional time at the terminal for check-in and loading.

What's included with Rottnest Island ferry tickets?

A standard ferry ticket generally includes:

Return ferry transfers
Rottnest Island admission
Access to the island for your selected visit date
Self-guided exploration of the island

Additional inclusions depend on the ticket you choose. Bike hire, snorkel equipment, guided bus tours and commentary are available with selected products.

Rottnest Island admission fee

The island admission fee is incorporated into the ferry fare when booking these tickets. The fee supports conservation, visitor facilities and management of the island.

What to know before boarding

Rottnest Express ferry approaching jetty in turquoise waters, Rottnest Island.

All passengers should arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. This allows time for parking, luggage labelling, equipment loading and boarding. If you have an e-ticket or QR code and no luggage or freight, you may be able to proceed directly to the boarding gate.

Don't cut it too close: final boarding may close approximately 5 minutes before departure.

Attaching luggage tag to red suitcase at Incheon Airport.

Luggage rules vary between operators, so check your selected ticket before travelling.

For products on this page, the stated allowance can include:

Checked luggage: up to 22kg per piece
Maximum dimensions: 800 × 500 × 400mm
Carry-on: up to 600 × 400 × 300mm
One piece of luggage per person on applicable services
Additional luggage may attract an excess charge

Large items and equipment such as bicycles, surfboards, kayaks and diving equipment may have separate requirements and charges.

Woman enjoying ocean view from Rottnest Island lookout.

For a day on Rottnest, pack:

Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Refillable water bottle
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Towel
Light layers
Camera or phone

If you're cycling, snorkelling or hiking, bring any additional personal equipment you need unless it is included in your selected experience.

No alcohol sign with bottle and glass crossed out.

Items restricted on the ferry include:

Alcohol
Weapons
Drugs
Drones
Pets
Smoking
Furniture

Carry-on luggage must not block aisles, exits or designated wheelchair spaces.

Old couple with electric bikes wearing safety helmets.

Accessibility varies by departure point and vessel, so check the specific sailing before booking.

Some North Fremantle/Rous Head services accommodate standard and motorised wheelchairs, while Perth CBD and B Shed services can have accessibility restrictions because of gangway and vessel configurations. Mobility scooters may need to be loaded separately rather than taken inside the vessel.

Prams can generally be carried onboard, although they may need to be stowed depending on capacity.

Important: Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve. If you're travelling with a service or guide dog, check the latest requirements with the island authorities and your ferry operator before travelling.

What can you do after arriving?

Children crouching near quokkas on Rottnest Island during a guided bus tour.

Go quokka spotting

Look around the settlement and shaded areas for Rottnest's famous marsupials.

Snorkelers in clear waters near rocky shore, Perth/Fremantle tour.

Couple with bicycles on Rottnest Island beach, Western Australia.

Snorkelers exploring clear waters near Rottnest Island's coastline on a sunny day.

Cyclists on Rottnest Island with ocean view, accessible via ferry from Perth or Fremantle.

How to make the most of your ferry day

If you have 6 hours

Stay relatively close to the settlement and combine:

Thomson Bay → The Basin → Pinky Beach → Wadjemup Lighthouse → settlement

If you have a full day

Hire a bike or join a guided tour and venture further towards:

Parker Point → Little Salmon Bay → Geordie Bay → West End

If you have 2 days

Use your first day for beaches, swimming and cycling, then dedicate the second to hiking, heritage, wildlife and adventure activities.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island ferry tickets

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).

Rottnest Island Ferry Tickets: Perth, Fremantle & Hillarys

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Bike & Return Ferry Tour

From Perth: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

From Hillarys: Rottnest Island Return Ferry

From Perth: Rottnest Island Bike & Guided Return Ferry Tour

Bike routes you can take

#From Perth/ Fremantle: Rottnest Island Snorkel Tour with Return Ferry

#From Perth/Fremantle: Rottnest Island Segway Tour with Return Ferry

#From Fremantle/Hillarys: Rottnest Island Grand Tour with Ferry & Lunch

Top things to do in Perth

Ferry tickets at a glance

Choose your Rottnest Island departure point

From Perth

From Fremantle

From Hillarys

Ferry or ferry + experience: which should you choose?

Rottnest Island ferry timings

What's included with Rottnest Island ferry tickets?

Rottnest Island admission fee

What to know before boarding

What can you do after arriving?

Go quokka spotting

How to make the most of your ferry day

If you have 6 hours

If you have a full day

If you have 2 days

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island ferry tickets

Which departure point should I choose?

What’s included in a ferry ticket?

How much time do I get on the island?

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

Where do ferries arrive on the island?

Are ferries wheelchair accessible?

Are ferries affected by weather?

What is the best departure point?

Is Rottnest Island suitable for a day trip?

Can I stay overnight on Rottnest Island?

Is it better to take the ferry from Perth or Fremantle?

How long is the ferry from Hillarys to Rottnest?

Read More

Bike Hire

Segway Tours

Hillarys to Rottnest Island Tours

Rottnest Island Ferry Tickets: Perth, Fremantle & Hillarys

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Bike & Return Ferry Tour

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Perth: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Hillarys: Rottnest Island Return Ferry

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Perth: Rottnest Island Bike & Guided Return Ferry Tour

Bike routes you can take

Bike routes you can take