Which Ferry Is Best for Rottnest Island? A Guide to Get to Your Skydive!
Your skydive is booked, your adventure is locked in, and now you just need to work out how to get to Rottnest Island Airport. Easy! We’ve got you covered.
Planning a trip to Rottnest Island is easier than you might think, and here at Skydive Geronimo, we’re pretty familiar with the journey!
Located just 19 km off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island is only a short ferry ride away. With three mainland departure points to choose from, there’s an option to suit whether you’re travelling from Perth’s southern suburbs, northern suburbs or the CBD.
First things first: understanding your skydive and ferry times
Your skydive check-in time and your ferry departure time are two different things.
When you book your skydive, your date and check-in time at Rottnest Island Airport are confirmed first. If you’ve booked a Skydive & Ferry Package, our team will then arrange your ferry tickets separately, selecting a departure that allows you enough time to get across to the island and make your way to the airport.
Your ferry tickets will be emailed to you separately from your skydive booking confirmation.
Here’s how it works:
- Book your skydive and ferry package online: Your skydive date and check-in time are confirmed. Book Skydive and Ferry Package Here
- Receive your ferry tickets: Our team arranges your ferry travel and emails your tickets separately. This will have your ferry departure times to and from the island.
- Catch your ferry: Head to your selected departure terminal and board at the departure time printed on your ferry ticket.
- Make your way to the airport: Once you arrive on Rottnest Island, it’s approximately a 10–15 minute walk to the airport from the main settlement.
- Check in and get ready to jump!
So, don’t worry if the time on your ferry ticket is different from your skydive check-in time. That’s exactly how it’s supposed to work!
Which Ferry Is Best for Your Journey to Rottnest Island?
There are three main ferry departure points from Perth, each with its own perks.
- Fremantle B-Shed: Located south of Perth southern suburbs south of Perth, it’s the quickest and cheapest. Only 30 minutes to Rottnest Island.
- Hillary’s Boat Harbour: For those located in Perth’s northern, it’s quick and convenient with free parking available. Only 45 minutes to Rottnest Island.
- Perth City, Barrack Street Jetty: Ideal for those who want a scenic journey along the Swan River. Most expensive and longest journey taking 1 hour and 45 minutes to Rottnest Island.
Let’s break them down.
Fremantle: The Quickest Way to Rottnest Island
Departure point: B-Shed, Victoria Quay, Fremantle
Ferry travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Best for: Travellers from Perth’s southern suburbs and anyone wanting a quick crossing.
If getting to Rottnest Island quickly is your priority, Fremantle is a great option.
Ferries operate regularly throughout the morning, with early departures from around 7:00 am. With a crossing of approximately 30 minutes, you can be stepping onto Rottnest Island and enjoying your morning coffee in Thomson Bay before you know it!
It’s also a great option if you’re planning to spend the day exploring the island before or after your skydive.
Where do you catch the ferry?
Head to B-Shed at Victoria Quay in Fremantle.
View Fremantle Ferry Terminal on Google Maps
There is paid parking available near the terminal, generally around $10–$15 per day depending on the parking location. Prefer to leave the car at home? Fremantle Train Station is conveniently located right next to the ferry terminal.
Why depart from Fremantle?
- One of the quickest ferry journeys to Rottnest Island.
- Convenient for travellers coming from Perth’s southern suburbs.
- Regular morning departures, including early services.
- Easy access by train or paid parking available.
- Plenty of great cafes and spots to explore in Fremantle before or after your trip.
Skydive and Ferry Package ex Fremantle book here.
- Book your tandem skydive direct and add your ferry transfer below to enjoy exclusive package savings of $33!
- *Package discount is already included in the displayed price. No promo code required.
Hillarys Boat Harbour: Best for Perth’s Northern Suburbs
Departure point: Hillarys Boat Harbour
Ferry travel time: Approximately 45 minutes
Best for: Travellers from Perth’s northern suburbs and anyone looking for convenient, free parking.
Located north of Perth, Hillarys Boat Harbour is home to Rottnest Fast Ferries and is a fantastic alternative to departing from Fremantle or Perth City.
The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes, with morning departures generally around 7:30 am and 10:00 am.
There’s plenty of free parking at Hillarys Boat Harbour, making it a convenient option if you’re travelling by car.
Where do you catch the ferry?
Head to Hillarys Boat Harbour and board with Rottnest Fast Ferries.
View Rottnest Fast Ferries Terminal on Google Maps
Free hotel pick-up service
Here’s a handy little bonus! Rottnest Fast Ferries offers a complimentary hotel pick-up service for eligible passengers travelling on selected services.
Pick-ups are available from selected locations including Perth City, Northbridge, Scarborough and along the Sunset Coast, before the 7:30 am ferry departure.
Bookings are essential, with at least 24 hours’ notice required. Contact Rottnest Fast Ferries to confirm availability and arrange your pick-up.
Why depart from Hillarys?
- Convenient for travellers from Perth’s northern suburbs.
- Free parking at Hillarys Boat Harbour.
- A relaxed marina setting with cafes and restaurants nearby.
- A relatively short ferry crossing.
- Complimentary hotel pick-up service from selected Perth locations.
Skydive and Ferry Package ex Hillary’s book here.
Book your tandem skydive direct and add your ferry transfer below to unlock exclusive package savings of up to $33!
*Package discount is already included in the displayed price. No promo code required.
Perth City: A Scenic Journey Along the Swan River
Departure point: Barrack Street Jetty, Perth CBD
Ferry travel time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
Best for: Visitors staying in Perth City or travelling from the CBD.
Staying in the heart of Perth? You can catch a ferry directly from Barrack Street Jetty.
Unlike the shorter crossings from Fremantle and Hillarys, this journey takes you down the beautiful Swan River before continuing across the ocean to Rottnest Island.
It’s a lovely way to travel if you’re keen to take in the scenery along the way. Just keep in mind that it’s the longest ferry journey, so you’ll want to factor this into your travel plans and allow enough time to reach the airport for your skydive check-in.
Where do you catch the ferry?
Head to Barrack Street Jetty in Perth City.
View Barrack Street Jetty on Google Maps
Paid parking is available in the surrounding CBD, although spaces can be limited. Public transport is another convenient option, with train and bus services operating throughout the city.
Why depart from Perth City?
- Convenient if you’re staying in Perth CBD.
- Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Swan River.
Skydive and Ferry Package ex Perth City, Barrack St book here.
Book your tandem skydive direct and add your ferry transfer below to unlock exclusive package savings of up to $33!
*Package discount is already included in the displayed price. No promo code required.
Our Tips for Booking Your Rottnest Island Ferry
A little planning goes a long way, especially when you’ve got a skydive to look forward to!
Book your skydive and ferry together with Geronimo
Want to make things easy? Let us organise the ferry logistics for you!
When you book one of our Skydive & Ferry Packages, our team takes care of arranging your ferry tickets from your preferred departure location and makes sure there’s enough time to reach Rottnest Island Airport for your scheduled check-in.
There are some great benefits to booking directly through us:
- Save 10% when you book a Skydive & Ferry Package.
- Less organising: We arrange your ferry tickets for you.
- Convenient delivery: Your ferry tickets are emailed directly to your inbox.
- Weather-related flexibility: If your skydive is cancelled due to unsuitable weather, our team can help coordinate your ferry arrangements.
- Refund flexibility: Subject to the applicable conditions, we can offer refunds for unused ferry tickets rather than leaving you with a ferry credit.
Our team knows the ins and outs of getting to Rottnest Island, so you can spend less time organising and more time looking forward to your jump!
Arrive at your ferry terminal early
We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure.
Traffic, parking and public transport can be unpredictable, so give yourself plenty of time to get there, check in and board without rushing.
Keep in mind that missed ferry departures are generally non-refundable, and ferry cancellation requests usually need to be made at least one hour before departure.
Pre-book your ferry tickets
Ferries can book out, particularly during summer, school holidays and major island events.
Pre-booking is essential to secure your preferred departure time. If you need to change your ferry time, you’ll generally need to arrange a new ticket, subject to the operator’s conditions.
Check luggage requirements
Planning to bring a bicycle, surfboard or extra luggage? Check directly with your ferry operator beforehand to confirm any additional fees or transport requirements.
Keep an eye on the weather update from the Geronimo team
Skydiving is a weather-dependent activity, and conditions can change.
Follow the weather-checking instructions provided in your skydive booking information. If your jump needs to be rescheduled due to unsuitable weather, our team will guide you through the next steps and help coordinate your ferry arrangements.
Allow enough time for your skydive
Your skydive experience takes approximately 1.5–2 hours from check-in to completion.
If you’re planning to explore the island, book a bike, head to the beach or enjoy lunch afterwards, make sure you leave enough time around your skydive experience.
Getting from the Ferry Terminal to Rottnest Island Airport
You’ve made it to Rottnest Island! Now it’s time to get yourself to the airport.
Skydive Geronimo operates from Rottnest Island Airport, approximately a 10–15 minute walk from the main settlement and ferry terminal.
There are a few easy ways to get there:
Walk: The easiest and most popular option. Follow the paths from the main settlement towards Rottnest Island Airport.
Ride a bike: Hiring a bike? Pedal & Flipper is conveniently located near the settlement, with the airport only around a five-minute ride away.
Catch the shuttle bus: The island’s accommodation shuttle bus also stops at the airport. Tickets can be purchased from the main bus stop in the settlement.
We recommend allowing enough time to make your way to the airport and arrive for your scheduled skydive check-in.
What About Getting Back to the Mainland?
Your ferry journey home is just as important to plan!
When booking your ferry, make sure you allow enough time after your skydive to enjoy the rest of your day and get back to the main settlement before your return departure.
Remember, your skydive experience takes approximately 1.5–2 hours, and you’ll need additional time to make your way back from the airport.
If you’ve booked a Skydive & Ferry Package, your return ferry details will be included with your emailed ferry tickets. Check these carefully before travelling.
Bringing Spectators Along?
Absolutely! Your friends and family are welcome to come along for the adventure.
If you have spectators who aren’t skydiving but need ferry tickets, we can arrange additional tickets so everyone can travel together.
Simply email skydive@skydivegeronimo.com.au with the number of additional ferry tickets you’d like, and our team can help organise the rest.
Ready to Plan Your Rottnest Island Adventure?
Whether you’re travelling from Fremantle, Hillary’s or Perth City, getting to Rottnest Island for your skydive is easier than you think.
Our recommendation? Book your skydive and ferry together, let us take care of the logistics, and get ready for an unforgettable day above one of Western Australia’s most beautiful islands.
Explore Our Skydive & Ferry Packages here.
Glenn is a successful Skydive Instructor who’s successfully turned his lifelong passion into an award-winning adventure tourism business. His love for the thrill of the jump began over three decades ago in Matamata, New Zealand. 20,000+ jumps later and with the highest Australian Chief Instructor / Instructor A ratings under his belt, he and his wife, Amy, dedicate their lives to running the Western Australian-based Skydive Geronimo, the only company licensed to provide tandem jumps over one of the pearls of the Indian Ocean, Rottnest Island.
Glenn works tirelessly in all aspects of the business – from student and instructor training through to equipment safety, PR, Australian Parachute Federation (APF) and Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) compliance and everything in between. He also delivers education sessions to local pilots about skydiving operations in Perth and the surrounding area.
