Top things to do in Perth

Enjoy convenient return transfers with Rottnest Island ferry tickets

Escape the city’s bustle and dive into crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and flourishing greenery at Rottnest Island. A rejuvenating getaway for locals and tourists alike, Rottnest Island is just a 30-minute ferry ride away from Perth. Read on to find out more about curated experiences that offer Rottnest Island ferry tickets from various locations in and around Perth.

Explore your options: Rottnest Island ferry boarding points

As the island is located off-shore, a ferry is the only means to reach Rottnest Island from the mainland. Here are 4 boarding point options to make your journey convenient.

*Note: You can get complimentary hotel pickups to your boarding point in the mornings. Contact your ferry service provider a day before your visit and a pickup service can be arranged at a designated time. *

Departure times: 8:30am, 8:45am ; Duration: 90 minutes
Fares: From AU$ 124
Suitable for: Scenic ferry ride, stay in and around Perth CBD

Address: Barrack Street Jetty, Perth WA 6000, Australia. ​Find on Maps

By bus: Nearest bus stops are at St Georges Terrace near Barrack Street which is a 7-min walk from the jetty. Buses 39, 111, 160, 270, 282, 283 and 940 stop here.

By train: Nearest train station is Elizabeth Quay which is an 8-min walk from the jetty. Take the lines Yanchep or Mandura to reach this station.

Parking:

Departure times: 9am, 9:30am ; Duration: 25 minutes
Fares: From AU$ 84
Suitable for: Accessible boarding, ample parking space

Address: Rottnest Express Northport Ferry Terminal, 1 Emma Place, Rous Head Rd, North Fremantle WA 6159, Australia. ​Find on Maps

By train: The nearest train station is North Fremantle, which is a 10-minute drive from the boarding point. Catch the Fremantle Line to get here.

Parking:

*Note: Ferries operate less frequently from this boarding point compared to B-Shed. Check the ferry schedule to get accurate ferry departure timings.*

Departure times: 9am and 9:30am ; Duration: 25 minutes
Fares: From AU$ 84
Suitable for: Public transport, budget parking

Address: Rottnest Express B Shed Ferry Terminal, Victoria Quay, 1 Peter Hughes Dr, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia. ​Find on Maps

By bus: The nearest bus stop is at Fremantle which is a 9-minute walk. Take route 107, 111, 160, 500, 531, 532, 548, 998 or 999 to reach here.

By train: The nearest train station is Fremantle which is an 8-min walk. Catch the Fremantle line to get here.

Parking:

*Note: B-Shed is currently under renovations. Ticket redemption has been moved to E-Shed. Allow extra time to find parking or use Fremantle Northport. *

Departure times: 7:30am ; Duration: 45 minutes
Fares: From AU$ 90
Suitable for: Families, large groups, amenities, relaxed experience

Address: Hillarys Boat Harbour, 86 Southside Dr, Hillarys WA 6025, Australia. ​Find on Maps

By bus: Nearest bus stop is at West Coast Drive. Take route 423 to reach here.

By train: The nearest train station is the Greenwood Station which is an 11-minute drive away from the ferry terminal. Take the Yanchep line to reach here.

Parking:

How to pick the right Rottnest Island ferry ticket for you? 

Once you’ve decided the boarding point for your ferry, here’s what you need to consider to pick the right Rottnest Island ferry options for you.

  • All Rottnest Island ferry tickets offer transfers both to and from the mainland. You can board your ferry in the morning, sightsee on the island and take another ferry in the evening with the same tickets. However, the tickets are only valid for the day of the purchase. The entry fee to the island is also included in your ferry ticket fare. 
  • You can choose between two transfer options: ferry transfers only and ferry transfers with day tours. If you have your own itinerary for exploring Rottnest Island, then Rottnest Island return ferry tickets are your best option. This ticket is relatively affordable and allows you to explore the island at your own pace. If you’d prefer a curated experience with activities on the island along with ferry transfers, then check out Rottnest Island ferry + day tour options. You can choose between various experiences like bus tours, segway tours, bike trip or even tandem skydive with curated Rottnest Island day tours
  • The price of your ferry tickets depends on your boarding point. The prices for ferry tickets from Fremantle are AU$84, from Hillarys are AU$90 and from Perth CBD are AU$124. This price can go higher if your tickets also include other activities to explore on the island. 
  • Your ferry tickets allow you to carry one luggage item and one carry-on item for every passenger. Any additional luggage storage will carry a nominal fee.

Your Rottnest Island ferry ticket options

Group of tourists enjoying a sunny day on the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour, with a scenic view of the ocean and the return ferry waiting at the dock in Perth or Fremantle

Ferry transfers

Why pick this ticket? Budget option, flexible timings, explore at your own pace, any traveler

  • Get easy return transfers to Rottnest Island from Perth, Hillarys or Fremantle within the same day.
  • Island entry fair is included in your tickets. Enjoy up to 7.5 hours of free time to explore the island at your own pace. 

Recommended experiences: 

Rottnest Island Return Ferry from Perth/Fremantle/Hillarys
Group of tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with a return ferry from Perth or Fremantle, with a scenic view of the island's coastline in the background

Ferry transfers + day tour

Why pick this ticket? All-inclusive packages, guided tours, multiple activities, premium upgrades

  • Make the most of your visit to the island through a variety of ferry + Rottnest Island day tour options that include activities like bike tours, adventure boat, snorkeling, segway tours, skydive and more.
  • Avoid the hassle of building your own itineraries with all-inclusive tour packages. 

Recommended experiences: 

Rottnest Island Ferry and Bike Day Trip from Perth, Fremantle, or HillarysRottnest Island Skydive and Ferry Tour from Perth/Fremantle/Hillarys

Know before booking Rottnest Island ferry

Group of tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with a return ferry from Perth or Fremantle, with a scenic view of the island's coastline in the background

Rottnest Island ferries are available every day from all 3 locations.

Operating hours

Perth: Departures at 8:30am and 8:45am ; Duration: 90 mins

Fremantle (Northport/B Shed): Departures at 9am and 9:30am ; Duration: 25 mins

Hillarys: Departures at 7:30am ; Duration: 45 mins

Departures from Rottnest Island: Available all day between 8:15am and 6:30pm

Boarding time: We suggest that you arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for parking or walking from nearby stops.

Attaching a luggage tag to suitcase at Incheon airport
  • Island entry fee included: The entry fee the island levied by the Rottnest Island Authority is included in the price of your ferry tickets. 
  • Luggage storage: Every passenger can bring 1 luggage and 1 carry-on bag with them. Any extra luggage will levy an additional fee per bag.
  • Hotel transfers: Your ferry provider also offers free hotel pickup service before the ferry’s departure. Contact your ferry provider to add your hotel to their route. 
  • Drinking water
  • Onboard wifi
  • Wheelchair & stroller accessible
  • Service dogs allowed
Wheelchair in a port
  • Wheelchair access: All ferries are wheelchair accessible with ramps. For any special requirements, mention your requests while booking your tickets. 
  • Service dogs: Assistance dogs are allowed to board all Rottnest Island ferries. However, you will need to register your animal beforehand with the Rottnest Island Authority to get them entry onto the island.
  • Bicycle access: You’re allowed to take your bicycle aboard the ferry. 
  • Equipment access: You can carry heavy equipment on the ferry as well. However, you will need to register them beforehand as there may not be sufficient storage area on the main deck.
No smoking sign on a boat during a Thames River tour in London
  • Smoking is prohibited: All ferries to Rottnest Island are smoke-free. 
  • Don’t throw things overboard: Avoid discarding anything into the water. Keep your trash with you and dispose of them in designated dustbins. 
  • Avoid getting up while in motion: Rottnest Island ferries are usually high-speed catamarans that cover a large distance in a short period. Remain seated and avoid roaming around while the boat is in motion. 
  • Follow crew instructions: The ferry crew may share a few instructions before your journey begins. Heed to these instructions for your own safety. 
  • Watch your footing: The main deck will usually have several items. Watch your foot and hold onto the railings when moving around on the boat.
Group of tourists enjoying a guided bus tour on Rottnest Island with a return ferry visible in the background, a unique day trip from Perth or Fremantle
  • Sunscreen is important: The sun’s rays are harsh on the sea. Keep yourself protected with sunscreen, shades or hats. 
  • Make a day of it: The easiest way to explore Rottnest Island is to take a morning ferry, spend time on the island and take a return ferry in the evening. 
  • Don’t miss your return: The ferry tickets are valid for return transfers within the same day. If you miss your evening ferry, then you’ll have to purchase new tickets for the next day. 
  • Get seasickness medication: If you’re prone to getting seasick, get the necessary medication to keep yourself comfortable.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island ferry tickets

How long is the ferry journey to Rottnest Island from Hillarys, Fremantle, and Perth?

The ferry ride duration varies based on the departure point. Generally, ferries from Fremantle take around 25 minutes, from Hillarys about 45 minutes, and from Perth approximately 90 minutes due to scenic routes along the river.

Why should I choose a ferry from Hillarys, Perth, or Fremantle?

Each departure point offers unique perks! Fremantle is the closest, making it the quickest option, while Perth provides a longer, scenic journey along the river. Hillarys offers a relaxed, family-friendly departure location with convenient amenities.

What tour options are available with ferry tickets to Rottnest Island?

Many tickets can include guided tours, bike rentals, and snorkel gear, or even island bus tours for a full exploration experience. Some packages also offer combo tickets for added savings on activities.

What items am I allowed to bring on the ferry to Rottnest Island?

Passengers can generally bring standard carry-on items, such as small bags, backpacks, and essentials. Larger items, like bicycles or surfboards, may require an additional fee.

Is there an additional fee for luggage on the ferry?

Yes, additional fees apply for large luggage, sports equipment, or bicycles. It’s best to check with the operator for specific fees based on your items.

What are the boarding times for ferries to Rottnest Island?

Boarding usually begins 30 minutes before departure, and it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to allow for smooth boarding.

What happens if I miss my ferry?

If you miss your ferry at the designated departure time, you will forfeit your ticket. You may have to purchase a new one.

Are there package deals that combine ferry tickets with Rottnest Island activities?

Many ferry operators offer package deals that include round-trip tickets and add-ons like snorkeling, bike rentals, or guided island tours, which are ideal for first-time visitors.

Is there a weight or size limit for luggage on the ferry?

Yes, there are usually restrictions on the weight and size of luggage.  For oversized items, a fee is often applied, and prior arrangements may be necessary.

Can I bring my pet on the ferry to Rottnest Island?

Pets are typically not allowed on the ferry to Rottnest Island, as the island is a protected nature reserve. Service animals may be permitted with prior registration with Rottnest Island Authority.

What amenities are available on board the ferry to Rottnest Island?

Ferries may offer amenities such as onboard snacks, drinks, restrooms, and comfortable seating. Some vessels even feature open-air decks for scenic viewing.

Can I cancel or change my ferry ticket to Rottnest Island?

Cancelation and change policies vary by operator. It’s recommended to check the specific terms at the time of booking as some tickets may be non-refundable.

Are there discounted tickets for children, seniors, or students?

Most ferry operators provide discounted fares for children, seniors, and students. Be sure to verify age limits and identification requirements to qualify for reduced prices.

What’s the best time of year to visit Rottnest Island?

The island is beautiful year-round, but summer (December to February) offers the warmest weather, ideal for water activities. Spring and autumn provide milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?

Yes, especially during peak travel periods or weekends. Pre-booking ensures you secure your desired time slot and may offer better rates.

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