SeaLink offers multiple daily ferry services direct from Fremantle to Rottnest Island. And the best bit? Kids aged 12 and under travel free with every full paying adult fare (Excluding Government Admission Fee of $7 per child). No special code is required, simply add a child fare at the time of booking and provided that you meet the terms and conditions, your free child fare will be applied at checkout. You can book easily online, over the phone or in-person at the SeaLink desk. It is advisable to book in advance during the school holidays as it can get busy.
The ferry departs from B Shed Victoria Quay in Fremantle. Although there were renovations in the car park when we travelled, that will be finished by early December and the majority of parking is all day for only $10.00. Allow plenty of time for parking and remember to park in the main car park to the East of the E–Shed Markets. If you are travelling on public transport Fremantle Train Station is a short 5-minute walk away.
The 19 km journey across to Rottnest from Fremantle takes just 35 minutes. Boarding for all passengers closes 10 minutes prior to departure. If you are travelling with no checked luggage and have a QR code ticket you can head straight to the vessel to board. Your QR code will be scanned on boarding and this can be done from a smartphone or printed ticket. If you are checking in luggage, you will be required to check-in at the ticketing office first to collect your luggage tags.
Both the SeaLink Vessels, appropriately named Quokka 1 and Quokka 2, are the most modern and high-tech passenger ferries servicing Rottnest Island. They are also some of the most environmentally friendly vessels in Australia.
The vessels are fully accessible with a wheelchair or pram and there are seating areas in the downstairs cabin with pram parking. Passengers travelling in a wheelchair or bringing a pram whether stowed or taken on board will be given priority boarding.
Free Wi-Fi is available onboard. You’ll also find a fully-licensed bar serving alcoholic beverages, light snacks, tea and coffee.
We enjoyed our journey and found the boat to be clean and comfortable with plenty of room. On our voyage across to Rottnest Island, we chose to sit in the upper deck cabin. The large windows offer great views out across the ocean and we even managed to spot some Dolphins.
If you enjoy the wind in your hair you can elect to sit on the outside deck. I noticed there was a staff member present outside at all times making sure all passengers stayed safe.
The afternoon journey back from Rottnest is notorious for being a bit choppy and ours was no exception. If you wish for a smoother experience it is advised to seat at the rear of the vessel as opposed to the front cabin. We were at the front and there were lots of squeals of delight from the kids onboard every time the crossing got a bit bumpy. My daughter declared it to be better than Adventure World! The SeaLink vessels utilise a high tech system that automatically adjusts the vessels trim to give it the smoothest ride possible so travelling with SeaLink you may find your return journey to be smoother than you have previously had the joy of experiencing.
A really lovely touch was that a friendly crew member came around the boat during the return crossing offering free Icy Poles to all the children onboard.
Special Offer
If you are planning on travelling to Rottnest this Summer, and let’s face it – why wouldn’t you want to?? SeaLink is offering a special deal where Adults can travel to the island for only $49 (including Government Admission Fee) all day, every day AND Kids also travel for FREE. Simply make your booking here and provided that you meet the terms and conditions, your $49 SAME DAY RETURN and/or FREE CHILD FARE will be automatically applied at checkout!
What can I do on a day trip to Rottnest Island with kids?
If you are heading over to Rottnest for the day, or even just an afternoon as we did, there is plenty to see and do on Rottnest without having to hire a bike or board the Island Hopper Bus. You can:
Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Settlement
There are several family-friendly restaurants located in the Settlement including Dome, Thompsons and the new kid on the block – Lontara at Samphire Resort which we loved for its Bali vibes.
Take a Quokka Selfie
You’ll find Quokkas EVERYWHERE! There is no danger of not spotting one. There are even special gates on all the entrances of the shops in The Settlement to stop them getting in. They are very friendly and normally more than happy to pose for a selfie.
Swim at the Basin
The Basin is an easy 1km walk from the Settlement. This stunning swimming spot is perfect for kids. During the summer months, you can hire beach umbrellas, chairs and small beach toys from Rotto Shade Hire which is located at The Basin.
Have fun at Aquaplay
Located next to the main jetty, Aquaplay is a new water adventure playground, offering sea-bike tours, pedal-board and stand-up paddleboard hire, plus water bikes and a giant inflatable roller for kids.
Play Mini Golf or Watch a Movie
Head to Rottnest Movies and Mini Golf for a day jammed packed with fun and excitement. Whether you’re in the mood to get some energy out in their ground trampolines or want to sit back and relax and watch the latest movie, at Rottnest Movies and Mini Golf, they truly have it all!
For more information about travelling to Rottnest Island with SeaLink visit www.sealinkrottnest.com.au
Click here for more things to do on Rottnest Island
Buggybuddys were guests of SeaLink
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 14 & 12 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
