Rottnest Island Tours






































































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:

  • Distance from Fremantle: 19km
  • Travel time: about 25–30 minutes by ferry
  • Tour duration: Full day (6–8 hours recommended)
  • Meeting/drop-off point: B Shed Terminal, Fremantle
  • Key attractions: Little Salmon Bay, Wadjemup Lighthouse, Oliver Hill Tunnels, Pinky Beach, and quokka spotting near Thomson Bay

What to expect on a Fremantle to Rottnest Island tour?

Rottnest Express ferry leaving jetty with cars and buildings in Fremantle, Australia.
Tourists swimming at a beach on Rottnest Island with a lighthouse in the distance.
Couple with bicycles on Rottnest Island beach, Western Australia.
Person smiling with a quokka on Rottnest Island during a ferry and adventure boat tour.
Couple snorkeling near Rottnest Island beach with clear water and trees in the background.
Ferry boat on Swan River with Perth city skyline in background.
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Morning departure from Fremantle

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.

Rottnest Island entry ticket included

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.

Going around the island in bus, cycle, or segway

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.

Meet the famous quokkas

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.

Partake in activities spread across the island

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.

Return to Fremantle by 6pm

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.

Things to know before booking your Fremantle to Rottnest Island day tour

  • If you’re planning a day trip to Rottnest Island, Fremantle is hands-down the best departure point. Ferries take just 25–30 minutes from B-Shed Terminal, giving you around 7.5 hours on the island.
  • Rottnest is only 11 km long, making it perfect for a full-day experience without needing an overnight stay. You can explore at your own pace or opt for one of our structured experiences that make the most of your time.
  • You can hire a bike and cycle along the island’s 22 km loop. Stop at secluded bays like Little Salmon Bay and Henrietta Rocks.
  • The return ferry gives you access to the island and you can consider add-ons like bike hire, snorkelling, or an AC bus tour.
  • If you’re short on time but want something unforgettable, go for the Rottnest Island Skydive & Ferry Tour from Fremantle. You’ll freefall from up to 15,000 ft for views of the island’s turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and rugged coastline.

Which Fremantle to Rottnest Island tour to choose

TourDurationInclusionsTransfers typeBest suited forUpgradesStarting 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
Know fun facts on a guided tour

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.

Family biking on Rottnest Island, passing historic yellow buildings.

Highlights of Rottnest Island

Tourists smiling with a quokka on Rottnest Island, bicycles and beach in background.

Snap a selfie with quokkas:

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.

Tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Ferry and Adventure Boat Tour, departing from Perth or Fremantle, with a view of the island's coastline
Rottnest Island coastline with lighthouse and turquoise waters, view from above.
Lighthouse on Pink Beach, Rottnest Island, with clear blue water and sandy shore.
Rottnest Island coastal gun with ocean view in Fremantle, Australia.

Plan your Rottnest Island adventure from Fremantle

Visitor tips

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.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island trips from Fremantle

Yes, but extra charges may apply. Check stowing rules with your ferry operator.