Rottnest Island Roundtrip Fast Ferry from Hillarys Boat Harbour

Taking a trip to Rottnest Island from Perth is a popular choice for locals and travelers alike, and for good reason. The Rottnest Island Roundtrip Fast Ferry offers an efficient, comfortable way to enjoy a day in this picture-perfect, car-free paradise. While we haven’t personally boarded this ferry, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect — and it sounds delightful.

What we love about this experience is the speedy 40-minute cruise across the Indian Ocean that offers stunning views, the flexibility of exploring independently, and the convenience of multiple departure times. It’s especially appealing for families, friends, or solo travelers eager to escape city life for a day. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the ferry ride can be choppy, so those sensitive to motion sickness should come prepared.

This trip is ideal for anyone looking for a relaxing yet adventurous day trip—whether you want to cycle around the island, lounge on beaches, or climb the Wadjemup Lighthouse. With all fees included and options for pickups, it offers a straightforward, value-packed way to experience the island’s natural beauty.

• Fast and scenic ferry transfer makes travel hassle-free and quick.
• Flexible exploration options include beaches, biking, and sightseeing.
• All-inclusive pricing covers taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees.
• Multiple departure times help fit the trip into your schedule.
• Ideal for families and groups wanting independence with comfort.
• Weather-dependent cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

Starting from Hillarys Boat Harbour, the ferry journey takes just about 40 minutes, making it one of the fastest ways to reach Rottnest. The high-speed vessel, praised by reviewers for its smooth ride and punctual service, whisks you across the Indian Ocean. This quick transit leaves plenty of time on the island to soak up the sun, explore, and enjoy the scenery.

You’ll appreciate the convenience of several departure times throughout the day, which makes planning your trip much easier. Whether you’re a morning person or prefer a relaxed afternoon, there’s a schedule that suits. The ferry includes all taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees, meaning no hidden costs at the dock.

Once you arrive, the island reveals its charm—no cars are allowed, so the best way to explore is on foot, bike, or shuttle bus. You’ll land at the main jetty, which is close to many must-see spots and eateries. The island boasts 63 bays and beaches, each offering unique views and swimming opportunities.

Many reviewers emphasize the excellent value for money on this trip. For just over $62 per person, you get the ferry ride, which is seen as a good deal considering the scenery and freedom to roam. You’ll love the option to hire bikes or e-bikes, as suggested by an enthusiastic review, which makes tackling the hilly terrain easier and more enjoyable.

Scenic cruise: The 40-minute ferry ride is praised for being smooth and on time. Viewers mention that the ride can get a little bumpy, especially in choppy weather, so seasickness pills or a warm cabin might be worth considering.

Island exploration: Once ashore, the options are endless. From visiting Wadjemup Lighthouse—which offers panoramic views—to relaxing on beaches or cycling around, you can customize your day. Some reviews mention that hiring an e-bike is highly recommended, especially since parts of the island are quite hilly.

Wildlife and beaches: The quokkas are famously friendly and are often spotted wandering freely. A reviewer noted that they are “so friendly,” which makes for fantastic photo opportunities. The beaches are described as beautiful spots for swimming and sunbathing, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Food and amenities: The main settlement offers cafes and restaurants, but many travelers prefer to bring a picnic to enjoy on the island. It’s a laid-back atmosphere, with reviews mentioning the reasonably priced shops and eateries.

Several travelers highlight the friendly, efficient staff and the smooth booking process, which sets a positive tone from the start. One reviewer praised how “perfectly on time” the departure and return were, removing stress from the trip.

However, some mention weather impacts—particularly rough seas and rain—which affected their experience. One reviewer noted they had motion sickness and wished they’d been informed about the potential for a choppy ride, emphasizing the importance of preparation.

Another review touched on the importance of arriving early to catch the ferry, especially since the walk from the ticketing area to the vessel is short but important to consider. The ferry’s cleanliness and spaciousness are also appreciated, making for a comfortable ride.

• Arrive early: To ensure smooth boarding, especially in peak times.
• Bring seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness—some reviews indicate the ride can be bumpy.
• Book e-bikes in advance: Popular among travelers, and they help navigate hilly areas easily.
• Pack a picnic: While cafes are available, bringing your own lunch maximizes flexibility.
• Check the weather forecast: The trip is weather dependent, with cancellations possible in poor conditions.
• Be mindful of the departure time: Make sure to be back at the jetty by 4:10 pm for the 4:30 pm return ferry.

At $62.38 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The ferry itself is praised for its smooth and punctual service, and the freedom to explore Rottnest independently adds significant value. The fact that all taxes and surcharges are included means no surprises, making it straightforward to budget your day.

While the trip does not include food, drinks, or guided activities, these are easily self-arranged, allowing you to tailor the day to your preferences. Whether you’re after relaxing on beaches, snapping photos of quokkas, or riding around on a hired e-bike, your options are plentiful.

This experience suits families, groups of friends, and solo travelers who enjoy the idea of independent exploration combined with a quick, comfortable transfer. It’s perfect if you value a time-efficient journey and want to make the most of a day in Perth’s seaside escape.

Those with a moderate budget will appreciate the clear price and inclusive features, and adventure seekers will love the chance to hire bikes and explore on their own. However, travelers prone to seasickness or looking for guided tours might want to weigh the benefits against their personal preferences.

The Rottnest Island Roundtrip Fast Ferry from Hillarys offers a practical, enjoyable way to visit one of Perth’s most loved destinations. It combines a swift, scenic boat ride with ample freedom to explore the island at your own pace. The reviews reveal a consistently high level of satisfaction—thanks to friendly staff, reliable service, and the island’s natural beauty.

While it’s not a guided tour, the flexibility and value make it a top choice for independent-minded travelers. Whether you’re chasing quokkas, soaking up the sun, or indulging in a picnic, this trip truly suits those wanting a laid-back yet memorable day out.

Is the ferry trip suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The ferry and island activities are family-friendly.

Are there multiple departure times available?
Yes, several departures are offered throughout the day, giving you flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule.

What should I do if I get seasick?
It’s advisable to take seasickness pills beforehand, especially since some reviews mention the ride can be rough in choppy weather.

Does the price include everything?
All taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees are included in the $62.38 price. Food, drinks, and optional activities are extra.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If the trip is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, bringing a picnic is encouraged, although there are cafes and restaurants on the island if you prefer to buy food on-site.

This ferry trip to Rottnest Island combines efficiency, comfort, and freedom, making it an excellent choice for a memorable day in Western Australia.