Western Australia ferry routes & schedules

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.

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.