Rottnest Island Tours






































































Perth to Rottnest: the route at a glance

The classic Perth island day: a ferry from the city centre to car-free Rottnest: quokkas, turquoise bays and coral reefs, on an island roughly the size of Manhattan. From Perth this is an easy, no-logistics day out; the only trade is that the scenic route costs you island hours.

  • Distance: 35.2 km from Perth; the route runs down the Swan River via Fremantle, then across open water
  • Journey time: ~90 minutes each way from Barrack Street Jetty (river leg + ~25-minute crossing)
  • The day: Morning departures ~7:30–8:30am; last ferries leave the island ~4:30–5pm — up to ~7 hours on Rottnest
  • How it's sold: Return ferry with island entry included, plus bike, guided bus, Segway and skydive versions
  • From: AU$121.50 (ferry + bike); ferry-only from AU$127
  • Departure point: Barrack Street Jetty, Perth CBD: check in 30 minutes before sailing

Ways to make the trip

OptionWhat you getPick it ifStarting from
🚲 Ferry & Bike Day Trip

Return ferry + island entry + bike, helmet & lock; snorkel gear as an upgrade

You want the classic Rotto formula — hidden beaches and the 22 km loop at your own pace

AU$121.50

⛴️ Return Ferry

The crossing + island entry, up to ~7 hours ashore; bike or bus tour addable later

You'd rather land first and decide on the island

AU$127

🚌 Guided Bus Tour + Ferry

A 1 hr 45 min air-conditioned island loop with an English-speaking guide, plus the crossing and entry

Comfort and commentary — kids, seniors, or anyone skipping the pedalling

AU$145

🛴 Segway Tour + Ferry

The crossing, entry, and an expert-led Segway ride with training — Bathurst Lighthouse, salt lakes, coastal trails

Covering more ground than walking without the effort of cycling

AU$184.50

🪂 Skydive & Ferry

The crossing plus a tandem jump from 10,000 or 15,000 ft onto the beach

The once-in-a-lifetime version of the day

AU$472

🏝️ Same island. Completely different experiences.

All roads lead to Rottnest, but not all Rottnest days look the same. Pick the experience before you pick the departure.

Segway tour group exploring Rottnest Island coast with ocean view.

How the day runs

Barrack Street Jetty Terminal with docked tour boats in Perth, Australia.
Rottnest Island lighthouse overlooking bay with numerous boats.
Tourists on Segways at Rottnest Island beach with ocean view.
Quokka in natural habitat on Rottnest Island, Australia.
Two people snorkeling with yellow fins in clear water at Rottnest Island.
Ferry traveling across turquoise waters to Rottnest Island from Perth or Fremantle.
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Morning departure from Barrack Street Jetty

Begin your adventure with a scenic ferry ride across the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean. You'll see Perth’s skyline as you cruise along the Swan River, and if it’s whale season, you might spot them along the coast. You’ll reach Rottnest Island in under 90 minutes and have the entire day to explore at your own pace before your evening return.

Rottnest Island entry ticket included

Rottnest Island is car-free zone and requires admission ticket to enter. The tour includes island admission, so you can step straight into this protected paradise without any hassle. Staff at the jetty provide maps and guidance to help you plan your day.

Explore at your own pace or on a tour

Choose how you want to see the island — cycle the 22 km loop, join a guided bus tour for comfort and commentary, or take a segway tour for something fun and effortless.

Meet the famous quokkas

Stop by Thomson Bay and The Settlement to meet Rottnest’s adorable residents. These friendly marsupials are known for their camera-ready smiles, so keep your phone handy for photos.

Discover beaches and scenic lookouts

Swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of The Basin, visit Wadjemup Lighthouse for sweeping island views, or unwind at Pinky Beach with lunch and ocean breezes.

Optional add-ons and evening return

You can upgrade your tour to include snorkeling gear, guided AC bus tour of the island, skydiving experience or even a scenic plane ride. As the day winds down, relax on the return ferry to Perth, reaching back by early evening.

What the route delivers

The journey first, because from Perth, the crossing is half the trip:

Then what's waiting at the other end:

  • Quokkas ✅ — The world's only native population, concentrated around Thomson Bay and the settlement. Photos welcome; feeding or touching them is prohibited — your food makes them sick.
  • The Basin ✅ — Rotto's signature swim: a clear, sheltered pool over white sand, an easy ride from the jetty.
  • A car-free island 🎟️ (bike, bus & Segway options) — 22 km of traffic-free loop past Pinky Beach, Wadjemup Lighthouse and the West End; wheels are the difference between three beaches and ten.

From Perth, or from somewhere else?

Departure pointCrossing timeBest for

🏙️ Perth (Barrack St)

~90 min

Staying in the CBD and wanting the easiest, all-in-one option. Includes the Swan River cruise but gives you the least time on the island.

⚓ Fremantle (B Shed)

25–30 min

Maximising island time. The shortest crossing and usually the best choice if you don't mind taking the train to Fremantle first.

🌊 Hillarys Boat Harbour

~45 min

Staying in Perth's northern suburbs or driving. Free harbour parking and typically smaller crowds.

💡 Quick pick: Staying in central Perth without a car → Perth (Barrack St) for the easiest day. Want the most time on Rottnest → Fremantle is the clear winner.

Plan your trip

Visitor tips

  • Don’t feed the quokkas: No matter how cute they look, avoid giving them food or touching them. These native islanders are curious enough to come close on their own, and keeping them wild helps protect their health.
  • Start your day at the bakery: The Rottnest Bakery is a local favourite for fresh pastries and quick bites. Grab a coffee and a jam doughnut before you head out exploring, it’s almost a tradition here.
  • Seek out hidden beaches: Don’t just stop at The Basin or Pinky Beach. Wander a little further to find quieter gems like Little Parakeet Bay or Henrietta Rocks.
  • Join the local jetty jump: Locals swear by the thrill of leaping off the Fuel Jetty or Army Jetty at Thomson Bay. It’s a rite of passage, just make sure to check the tide and water depth first for safety.
  • Try a Seabob adventure: Rent an underwater scooter at Parakeet Bay for an adrenaline rush. It’s a high-energy twist on regular snorkelling.
  • Plan for island prices: Food and drinks tend to cost more than on the mainland. Pack a picnic if you’re watching your budget, or splurge on a seafood dinner at Pinky’s Beach Club or Hotel Rottnest.
  • Pack for the breeze: Rottnest is windier and cooler than Perth, even in summer. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker so you can comfortably cycle or explore the island all day.

Keep building your Rottnest trip

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island trips from Perth

Early weekday mornings are the quietest. Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) offer a relaxed vibe and easier bookings.