How to Go to Rottnest Island: 4 Best Transportation Options

Rotto, the popular name for the island, is not only rich in flora diversity but also has unique types of fauna. Located 19 km off the coast of Perth, the peaceful atmosphere of Rottnest Island will give you a sensation you have never felt before

To access this island, you can choose various alternative transportation, including sea, land and even air transportation. Both public transportation and private transportation. Below are several forms of transportation that you can use on how to go to Rottnest Island.

Ferry from Perth or Fremantle

You can access the Ferry using the Ferry SeaLink Rottnest Island. Apart from being more reliable, you also have more time to enjoy the beautiful views of the Swan River. Besides that, this service is the fastest way to go directly to Rottnest Island in just 30 minutes.

Ferry departs several times a day from B Shed, Fremantle Terminal. You can order Ferry tickets in advance to secure your place. If tickets are sold out, you can reschedule your Ferry up to 60 minutes before the trip via online or contact the reservation department.

Ferry also provides a free hotel pick-up service for departures from Perth at 08.30 from Barrack Street Pier. However, this service does not apply to passengers departing from Fremantle.

SeaLink offers discounts for children and travelers with a valid concession card. The discounted prices are as follows:

• Babies: 0 – 3 years
• Children: 4 – 12 years
• Students: 14 – 25 years
• Concession : Australian and international seniors as well as concession card holders, YHA, VIP and Nomad cards
• Family : 2 adults and 2 children traveling together is classed as a family ticket. Children must be between 4 – 12 years old. For travel 1 July 2024, the child’s age will change to 4 – 16 years.

If you have booked a Perth accommodation transfer, you should contact the reservations office on 1300 786 552, 24 hours before travel to reconfirm the time and location. Or on (08) 9325 9352 for further information.

Private Boat

Besides using public transportation, you have the option to use private transportation such as a private boat. To be able to use a private boat there are several things you must pay attention to, including;

• Read the island’s boating regulations.
• Download and read the Rottnest Island Boating Guide.
• Check your boat registration with the Department of Transportation.
• Make sure you have made the necessary arrangements to access the tether.
• Confirm the entry fees applicable to your trip, and pay online if necessary.
• Plan your trip in the marine sanctuary zone.
• Make sure the necessary facilities are available for your boat and accommodation.
• Check the latest WA boating alerts for any information on tides, currents and drowning dangers.
• Visit the Bureau of Meteorology website to see the latest weather conditions.

There are 37 beach anchor points around Rottnest Island. You can find the location using the interactive map, in the Marine and Boating Guide or view the Marine Map.

Boats can anchor anywhere within the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve, as long as the distance is no more than 50 meters from the anchorage as long as the location is clear of seagrass beds and coral reefs and outside the prohibited area for boating as specified in the signage.

Helicopter

At a cost of $1250 per person you can access this air transportation. Equipped with facilities such as air conditioning, leather seating, noise canceling headsets and of course the guarantee of experienced pilots will pamper your trip on how to go to Rottnest Island.

Depart from Jandakot Airport, enjoy views of the WA coastline and Perth CBD in the distance then land at Rottnest Island Airport.

All flights are private tours and require a minimum of 2 passengers to continue the journey. Flight time is approximately 20 minutes one way. Weight/weather restrictions apply.

There are various beautiful aviation services available that vary according to your needs and desires at Corsaire Aviation. To make a booking you can call 08 9417 1325 or email booking@corsair.com.au.

Planes

Starting from $195 per adult you can enjoy flight services using the Swan River Seaplane. This flight lasts 20 minutes. The prices range;

• Adults $195
• Concession $195
• Youth $195
• Child/infant $145

Swan River Seaplanes offers attentive and personalized service onboard their seaplanes. You can contact service 1300 786 552 for further information.

After reading the transportation recommendations above, you can choose the option that best suits your travel needs to Rottnest Island. Each mode of transport offers a unique and memorable journey to this stunning destination. For the best experience, the best time to visit Rottnest Island is between when the weather is ideal and the island is less crowded.