Rottnest Island day trip from Perth: Guided bus tour
See Rottnest's lighthouse, rocky outcrops and coves without renting a car
A same-day trip from Perth to Rottnest Island with return SeaLink ferry and a 1.5-hour guided bus tour covering the island's key landmarks. You cruise the Swan River to the island, meet your driver-guide for the bus tour of beaches, woodlands and salt lakes, then have free time before the 4:30pm ferry back to Perth, arriving around 6pm.
Step-by-step itinerary
Rottnest Island Day Trip from Perth
- Check in at ticketing office
- Cruise from Perth to Rottnest Island
- Free time on Rottnest Island
- Meet guide for bus tour
- Tour Rottnest Island by bus
- Visit visitor information centre
- Free time before return ferry
- Return ferry to Perth
- Swan River passing by
- Rottnest Island 5m
What’s included
- Same-day return SeaLink ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island.
- 1 hour 30 minute guided bus tour with stops at Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks and Mabel Cove.
- admission fees to Rottnest Island.
Times
- Every day 08:30
Before you book
Operated by SeaLink Western Australia
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
The 1 hour 30 minute cruise from Perth to Rottnest Island runs via Fremantle along the Swan River, and your Captain provides commentary during the crossing. Once you land on Rottnest, you have time to walk around before your bus tour begins. The driver doubles as your guide, pointing out the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, and Mabel Cove as you pass through the island's major habitats (pristine beaches, tranquil woodlands and salt lakes), and hear about the colonial, maritime and military history of the place.
After the tour wraps, you're free until the 4:30pm ferry departure. That gives you a window to visit the visitor information centre, grab a meal (food and drink are not included), or simply sit on a beach. The ferry returns you to Perth around 6pm. Hotel pickup is available if you book it in advance and it's available for your date. Otherwise, you can drive or take public transport to the departure point, though parking near the ticketing office is limited and paid.
Is this one for you?Book hotel pickup if you want to travel light and avoid parking hassle. Otherwise, allow extra time to find a paid spot near the ticketing office or use public transport to reach the departure point.
Compare the 7 alternatives
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
How long does the ferry crossing from Perth to Rottnest Island take?
The cruise from Perth to Rottnest Island via Fremantle takes 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, with Captain's commentary during the crossing.
What are the main stops on the bus tour of Rottnest Island?
The guided bus tour covers Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, and Mabel Cove, and passes through the island's beaches, woodlands and salt lakes while your driver-guide explains the colonial, maritime and military history.
What time does the return ferry leave Rottnest Island?
The return ferry departs Rottnest Island at 4:30pm and arrives back in Perth around 6pm.
Is there free time to explore Rottnest Island on my own?
Yes, you have free time after landing before the bus tour starts, and again after the tour ends until the 4:30pm ferry departure, so you can visit the information centre or spend time on the beach.
Can I arrange hotel pickup for this tour?
Hotel pickup is optional and available if you book it in advance and it is available for your date. Otherwise, public transport or ride share is recommended since parking near the departure point is limited and paid.
Rottnest Island day trip from Perth: Guided bus tour
9h 15m · EN
from AU$ 193.50 per person
≈ US$ 138 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.