Just a quick ferry hop from Fremantle, Rottnest Island is a serene escape of windswept limestone cliffs, turquoise coves, and friendly quokkas roaming freely under the sun. Cycle its scenic trails, snorkel through coral-rimmed bays, or simply soak in the coastal calm.
Overview:
Set off from Fremantle’s B-Shed Ferry Terminal for a quick 25–30 minute cruise to Rottnest Island. The journey itself is a delight because you can watch the port’s heritage buildings, old cargo sheds and seabirds trace your route over shimmering turquoise waters.
Your tour includes island admission, giving you access to this car-free paradise. There are plenty of beaches, trails, and scenic lookouts spread across the island. Spend the entire day exploring at your own pace before returning to Fremantle in the evening.
Explore Rottnest your way. You'll have the option to cycle along the island’s scenic 22 km trail network, hop on the guided Island Explorer Bus for a narrated loop of major sights, or go on a Segway tour for a fun way to see more without breaking a sweat.
Head towards Thomson Bay and The Settlement to encounter the island’s most beloved locals. These photogenic marsupials are native only to Rottnest and are famously friendly.
Snorkel over coral gardens at Little Salmon Bay, walk up to Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views, or explore the WWII-era tunnels at Oliver Hill. Thrill-seekers can even try skydiving with views stretching across the Indian Ocean.
Wrap up your island adventure with a relaxed ferry ride back to Fremantle. As you sail into the harbour by early evening, you’ll catch the golden glow of the sunset over the water.
| Tour | Duration | Inclusions | Transfers type | Best suited for | Upgrades | Starting from |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rottnest Island Return Ferry | 7 hr. 30 min. - 8 hr. | Round-trip ferry from Fremantle, Rottnest Island entry ticket, optional bike hire, guided bus tour, English-speaking guide, Oliver Hill tunnel tour, Captain Hussey Train ride, light lunch | Round-trip ferry | Independent travellers wanting flexibility with optional guided experiences | Add-on bike hire, bus tour, tunnel tour, train ride, lunch | AU$86.50 |
| Ferry and Bike Day Trip | Flexible | Ferry transfers (Perth/Fremantle/Hillarys), island entry ticket, bike hire with helmet & lock | Round-trip ferry | Active explorers who prefer cycling and discovering hidden beaches independently | Snorkelling gear hire | AU$120 |
| Guided Bus Tour + Return Ferry | 5 hr. 45 min. - 9 hr. 45 min. | Ferry transfers (Perth/Fremantle/Hillarys), Rottnest entry ticket, 1 hr 45 min guided bus tour, English-speaking guide | Round-trip ferry | Travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and insightful commentary | None (bike and snorkel hire excluded) | AU$140 |
| Segway Tour + Return Ferry | 8 hr. - 9 hr. 25 min. | Ferry transfers (Perth/Fremantle), entry ticket, expert-led Segway tour, training & safety briefing, radio commentary | Round-trip ferry | Visitors wanting an effortless, guided exploration of the island’s coastline | Choose departure port (Perth for Swan River cruise / Fremantle for shorter crossing) | AU$184 |
| Skydive and Ferry Tour | 12 hr. | Ferry transfers, tandem skydive (10,000 ft or 15,000 ft), professional jumpmaster, safety gear, insurance | Round-trip ferry | Adrenaline seekers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime thrill with epic coastal views | Skydive height upgrades (10,000–15,000 ft), photo & video packages | AU$527 |
Rottnest got its name from a Dutch explorer who mistook quokkas for giant rats, calling it ‘Rotte nest.’ Its Noongar name, Wadjemup, means 'place across the water of spirits.' Discover more such facts on a guided tour.
Meet Rottnest’s most famous residents — the friendly quokkas. Found near Thomson Bay and The Settlement, these curious marsupials aren’t camera-shy and have earned global fame for their endearing smiles.
Book ferries early: Reserve your ferry tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays, to secure preferred departure times as Fremantle ferries can sell out quickly.
Arrive early for smooth boarding: Arriving early at Fremantle’s B Shed terminal helps you avoid long lines and ensures you get good seating onboard the ferry, especially in peak travel seasons.
Opt for a ferry + bike hire option: Fremantle departure ferries dock at Thomson Bay where bike rentals are easily available. Renting a bike is the best way to explore the island’s many beaches, bays, and hidden spots at your own pace.
Pack essentials for the day: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water, and comfortable shoes or sandals. Fremantle to Rottnest is a quick ferry ride, but the island can be windy and sunny, so be prepared for the weather.
Wildlife watching on the island: Take time to enjoy Rottnest’s unique wildlife. Spot the friendly quokkas around the island, especially at dawn and dusk. Between September and November, keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales offshore, and visit sites like Cathedral Rocks to see seals lounging and swimming in their natural habitat.
Yes, but extra charges may apply. Check stowing rules with your ferry operator.
Yes, Rottnest Island is an A-Class Reserve, meaning it’s protected for its natural and cultural heritage. The island is car-free, so only service vehicles are permitted. Feeding, touching, or handling wildlife (especially quokkas) is strictly prohibited, and alcohol is allowed only in licensed venues.
Ferries operate year-round but may be delayed or cancelled in case of strong winds or rough seas. In such cases, operators usually reschedule or refund tickets.
A Fremantle to Rottnest Island day trip typically lasts 8 to 9 hours, including ferry transfers (25–30 minutes each way). You’ll spend around 7 to 7.5 hours exploring the island.
No, pets are not permitted on ferries from Fremantle to Rottnest Island.
No storage at B Shed, but lockers are available on Rottnest.
Most ferries are accessible–notify your operator of special needs.
Large bags, alcohol, and glass may be restricted–check before you travel.
Yes, but it fills up quickly–arrive early or use public transport. The terminal is a short walk from the train and bus stations.
The fastest way to reach Rottnest Island is indeed from Fremantle. It’s just a 25–30 minute ferry ride compared to 90 minutes from Perth. Spend more time exploring this car-free island paradise.
Personalize your Rottnest Island tour with stress-free round-trip ferry transfers.
Inclusions
Self-paced day tour of Rottnest Island
Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle
Entry to Rottnest Island
Up to 7 hours to spend on the island
Bike hire at Rottnest Island (if option selected)
1-hour 45-minute guided AC bus tour on Rottnest Island (if option selected)
English-speaking guide (if option selected)
Guided tour of Oliver Hill gun fortification and tunnels (if option selected)
Ride on historic Captain Hussey Train to Oliver Hill (if option selected)
Visit Wadjemup Lighthouse, Jeannies Lookout, and Mabel Cove (if option selected)
Light lunch at Oliver Hill (sandwich wrap, cookie, water bottle) (if option selected)
Inclusions
Self-paced day tour of Rottnest Island
Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys (based on option selected)
Entry to Rottnest Island
Bike hire with helmet and security lock
Up to 7 hours to spend on island
The Rotto Mini Loop
Beaches, Lighthouses, and Lakes
The Island Ride
The Rotto Mini Loop
Beaches, Lighthouses, and Lakes
The Island Ride
Inclusions
1-hour 45-minute guided AC bus tour on Rottnest Island
English-speaking guide
Entry to Rottnest Island
Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, Hillarys, or Fremantle (as per option selected)
Free time to spend on island
Exclusions
The only Rottnest trip with ferry, entry & expert-led Segway rides along the coastline—no effort needed.
Inclusions
Entry to Rottnest Island
Segway tour
Experienced tour guide
Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle (as per option selected)
Segway training & safety briefing
Commentary via radio & helmet
Departing from Perth
Departing from Fremantle
Enjoy a scenic Perth to Rottnest Island flight—city, coast, & island views with zero effort.
Inclusions
50-minute grand scenic flight of Perth & Rottnest Island
Live commentary by pilot
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 4 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
