Perth - Rottnest Island Ferry: Same-Day Return & Pickup

Summary

Ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island with river views and flexible return

You’ll catch the ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island with friendly staff and river views along the way. Enjoy free time exploring beaches or spotting quokkas before your same-day return trip—hotel pickup and WiFi included make it all feel easy. There’s this relaxed pace here that lingers long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

“You heading to Rotto too?” That’s what the woman in front of me asked while we waited at Barrack Street Jetty. She was carrying a beach bag that looked older than me. I just nodded — I’d barely finished my coffee, honestly. The SeaLink staff waved us on with this easygoing warmth that’s so Perth, you know? The ferry left right on time, gliding out onto the Swan River. There was a bit of chatter from a group of cyclists behind me (they brought their own bikes — smart), and I could smell sunscreen and something sweet from someone’s backpack.

The captain’s commentary wasn’t too much — just enough so you noticed things you’d usually miss, like those old boathouses along the riverbanks and the way the light hit the water near Fremantle. It’s about an hour and a half to Rottnest Island from Perth, but it didn’t drag. Free WiFi helped (I sent photos to my mum — she replied with “don’t fall off”). The seats were comfy enough for a quick nap if you needed one. At one point, I tried to say ‘quokka’ like a local and got it totally wrong; Li, who worked on board, laughed but gave me a tip for finding them later.

Arriving at Rottnest Island felt like stepping into another world — salty breeze, gulls squabbling over chips (classic), people already barefoot on the jetty. No rush or schedule unless you wanted one. I spent hours just wandering around with sand stuck between my toes and that weirdly perfect blue sky overhead. If you’re lost or need tips, there’s a visitor centre right by the dock. They don’t mind silly questions — trust me.

The return ferry leaves at 4:30pm, but honestly I could’ve stayed longer if they let me. There’s something about watching Perth’s skyline reappear as you come back up the river that sticks with you — maybe it’s just relief your sunburn isn’t worse than expected. Either way, if you want an easy day trip from Perth with no stress about tickets or getting home again, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferry trip and free time on Rottnest

• Check in for departure
• Cruise from Perth to Rottnest Island
• Arrive and enjoy free time on island
• Visit Rottnest Island Visitor Centre

Top questions

How long is the ferry ride from Perth to Rottnest Island?

The ferry takes about 1 hour 30 minutes each way between Perth and Rottnest Island.

Is hotel pickup included for the ferry to Rottnest?

Yes, optional complimentary hotel pickup is available for this service.

What time does the return ferry leave Rottnest Island?

The return ferry departs Rottnest Island at 4:30pm and arrives in Perth around 6pm.

Are there restrooms on board the SeaLink ferry?

Yes, restrooms are available on board during your journey.

Is this ferry wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible for passengers.

Can I bring a stroller or pram for my child?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on board.

Does my ticket include admission fees for Rottnest Island?

Admission fees are included in your roundtrip SeaLink ferry ticket price.

What’s included

Your day includes same-day return SeaLink ferry tickets between Perth and Rottnest Island with WiFi onboard, admission fees covered, an optional complimentary hotel pickup if you need it, plus access to restrooms throughout your journey before returning in the evening.