Which departure point should I choose — Perth or Fremantle?

Both options use the same Rottnest Express ferry service and are included in the ticket price. Perth departs from Barrack Street Jetty at 8:45 AM; Fremantle departs from B Shed Terminal at 9:30 AM. Choose whichever is more convenient for where you're staying.

What is the difference between the morning and afternoon bus tour?

Both tours cover the same route with the same live commentary. The morning tour departs the island bus stop at 11:20 AM and ends at 12:50 PM, giving you more afternoon free time. The afternoon tour runs 1:50 PM to 3:20 PM, leaving less independent time before the 4:00 PM return ferry.

Do I need to print my ticket?

A mobile ticket on your phone is accepted — no need to print anything. Have your booking confirmation ready to show when boarding the ferry.

What time does the return ferry leave, and what if I miss it?

The return ferry departs Rottnest Island at 4:00 PM. Timetables can vary seasonally, so check the latest schedule at the Rottnest Express website or call +61 1300 467 688 to confirm before your visit.

Are children allowed, and is there a cost?

Children under 4 years travel free of charge, though they are not entitled to a separate seat. Check ticket options at booking for child pricing on other age groups.

Can the itinerary change on the day?

The bus tour route is subject to change due to weather conditions, particularly at exposed coastal stops like Cape Vlamingh. The operator will advise of any adjustments on the day.

Rottnest Island Bus Tour with Round Trip Rottnest Express Ferry Transfer

4.6Bestseller · one of our highest-rated experiences

Duration

7 hours

Cancellation

Free cancellation 48hrs

Ticket type

Mobile ticket

Confirmation

Instant

What's included

Round-trip Rottnest Express ferry crossing (Perth or Fremantle departure)

90-minute narrated sightseeing bus tour of Rottnest Island

Stop at Cape Vlamingh (West End) with short walking time

Live guide commentary on ecology, history, and culture

Not included

Food and drinks

Personal expenses on the island

Bicycle hire or other island transport

What to expect

Depart from Barrack Street Jetty, Perth
8:45 AM
Board the Rottnest Express ferry at Barrack Street Jetty for the crossing to the island (Perth departure option only).
Depart from B Shed Ferry Terminal, Fremantle
9:30 AM
Fremantle passengers board here; the ferry arrives at Rottnest Island shortly after, leaving time to explore independently before the bus tour.
Sightseeing bus tour departs
11:20 AM or 1:50 PM
Make your way to the main bus stop and join the guided tour — morning session departs at 11:20 AM, afternoon session at 1:50 PM.
Cape Vlamingh (West End) stop
Included in tour
The bus pauses at the island's western tip for a short walk with panoramic ocean views and a look at the rugged coastline.
Northern coastline and salt lakes
Included in tour
Continue along the northern shore, passing the vivid pink-hued salt lakes that are one of Rottnest's most photographed natural features.
End of bus tour — free time
12:50 PM or 3:20 PM
The guided tour concludes (12:50 PM or 3:20 PM) and the island is yours until the return ferry departs.
Return ferry departs Rottnest Island
4:00 PM
Board the Rottnest Express for the return crossing; arrival back in Fremantle at approximately 5:00 PM or Perth at approximately 6:00 PM.

Rottnest Island Bus Tour with Round Trip Rottnest Express Ferry Transfer

Rottnest Island Bus Tour with Round Trip Rottnest Express Ferry Transfer

What's included

What to expect

Highlights

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