Australia · The quokka island run, minutes off the Perth coast
Western Australia ferry routes & schedules
For all of Western Australia's vast coastline, its signature ferry ride is a short one: the hop out to Rottnest Island, the low, car-free isle of white beaches and quokkas that Perth treats as its offshore backyard. Boats leave from Fremantle, Hillarys and central Perth on Barrack Street.
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- Operators
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- Quays
About
Ferry travel in Western Australia
Three ways out to Rottnest
The crossing to Rottnest Island is offered from three points. Fremantle is the shortest and quickest passage; Perth (Barrack Street) is the scenic option, cruising down the Swan River before hitting open water; and Hillarys to the north serves the suburbs beyond the city. Each runs the return leg the same way.
Rottnest allows no private cars, so the ferry is the arrival experience — bikes and walking take over once you land. See it in the context of Australia's ferry network.
The two operators
Rottnest Express and Rottnest Fast Ferries compete on the route, between them covering all three departure points with regular daily sailings, more in summer and school holidays.
The exposed stretch of open water beyond the harbour can get bouncy in an afternoon sea breeze, so many travellers prefer a morning crossing. Book ahead on peak days and confirm departure times with the operator.
Quays
Ferry quays in Western Australia
4 quays with published connections. Open a quay for every route that calls there.
At a glance
Which Western Australia crossings run most often?
The busiest published crossings, ranked by number of listed sailings.
| Route | Crossing | Sailings | Operators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fremantle → Rottnest Island | 30m | — | 1 |
| Rottnest Island → Fremantle | 30m | — | 1 |
| Hillarys → Rottnest Island | 45m | — | 1 |
| Rottnest Island → Hillarys | 45m | — | 1 |
| Perth (Barrack Street) → Rottnest Island | 1h 30m | — | 1 |
| Rottnest Island → Perth (Barrack Street) | 1h 30m | — | 1 |
Timetables
Ferry routes in Western Australia
6 routes departing Western Australia.
Rottnest Island3 routes
Fremantle1 route
Hillarys1 route
Perth (Barrack Street)1 route
Operators
Who runs the ferries in Western Australia?
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest ferry to Rottnest Island?
The Fremantle crossing is the shortest and quickest; departures from Perth's Barrack Street take longer because they cruise down the Swan River first.
Can I take a car to Rottnest?
No. Rottnest Island is car-free — bring or hire a bicycle, or walk. The ferries carry passengers, not private cars.
Who runs the Rottnest ferries?
Rottnest Express and Rottnest Fast Ferries operate the routes from Fremantle, Hillarys and central Perth.
How many ferry routes are there in Western Australia?
Western Australia has 6 ferry and express-boat connections across 4 quays. Each route page lists the timetable, crossing time and operator.
Who operates ferries in Western Australia?
Boat and ferry services in Western Australia are run by 2 operators, including Rottnest Express and Rottnest Fast Ferries. Most are part of Australia's county public-transport network.
Explore
Other ferry regions in Australia
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub.