8 of the Best Tours to Rottnest Island 2024
Have you been wondering the Best Tours to Rottnest Island? I’ve got you covered!
I’m an Australian who loves travelling, and I’ve been to Perth and Rottnest Island multiple times. This gives me a unique insight when talking to travellers about the best tours to Rottnest Island, as I can provide first-hand experience and knowledge.
No matter your budget, there are plenty of options available so that you can make the most out of your Rottnest Island trip.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious day cruise or private tour, or prefer something affordable yet still unforgettable like a bike or walking tour – there’s something for everyone on Rottnest Island.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience with plenty of time to explore beautiful beaches and encounter wildlife like quokkas, a ferry tour is the perfect way to go.
On the other hand, if you’d rather have more guidance throughout your journey and access to exclusive experiences, then opting for one of several private tour options would be ideal.
No matter which option you choose, booking in advance online is always recommended as many tours get sold out quickly due to their popularity!
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My Top 3 Picks: Best Tours to Rottnest Island
8 of the Best Tours to Rottnest Island
1. Rottnest Island Grand Tour Including Lunch And Historical Train Ride
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
One of the best Rottnest Island tours is the aptly named Grand Tour! If you want to visit Rottnest Island but you only have half a day to spare, this jam-packed tour is the perfect fit.
Visit top attractions like the Kingstown Barracks, the Oliver Hill Battery, and the shipwreck at Henrietta Rocks. See the stunning turquoise bays and the island’s white-sand beaches, plus adorable quokkas and other amazing animals out in the wild.
You will also get the chance to learn about the history of the Aboriginal Noongar people who are native to this land.
“The train ride and the Oliver Hill gun tour were great – we didn’t expect the bus tour of the island too, so that was a bonus. Our guide told us many interesting facts and seeing the osprey landing on its nest was a treat. Lunch was tasty too!” – Fiona_C (read more reviews)
Your tour will begin on a historical train ride, before hopping on an air-conditioned bus to make your way to the first main attraction – the Oliver Hill Battery. This heritage site played a significant role in Australia’s defence during World War II.
You will also pass by the Kingstown Barracks, which housed ANZAC troops during the war, as well as the stunning Cape Vlamingh, a popular spot for whale watching.
Next up is the Cathedral Rocks, home to a fur seal colony. These adorable seals can be seen from a special viewing platform. Afterwards, you’ll get to see the Rottnest Island Salt Lakes, which take up 10 per cent of the island!
Some of the amazing pink lakes you can check out include Garden Lake, Serpentine Lake, Lake Baghdad and Herschel Lake.
Lastly, stop at the Henrietta Rocks and spend a few moments taking in the picturesque views. Only a few metres from the shore is a famous shipwreck, known as the Wreck of the Shark. Dyer Island and Parker Point are also visible from here.
Important details
- Start time and location: 10:45 am from the Main Bus Terminal at Settlement or 11:30 am from the Rottnest Island Main Railway Station
- Duration: 4 hours
- Includes: An air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary from your tour guide, a light lunch, a train ride, and a WWII guns and tunnel tour
2. Rottnest Island Segway Tour: Fortress Adventure Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Interested in exploring Rottnest in a quick, fun and unique way? Look no further than this Rottnest Island segway tour.
Venture along the coastlines and go off-road on this small-group excursion, which will have a maximum of 10 people. Stop at interesting attractions and gorgeous views, like the Kingstown Barracks and Bickley Battery, Jubilee Hill Observation Post, Paterson Beach, Thompsons Bay, and the Henrietta Rocks.
“Justin was our awesome guide. Had a great tour of the bits of Rottnest you don’t normally see. Highly recommended, don’t be scared of Segwaying, really easy to get the hang of.” – Lisa_D (read more reviews)
Begin your segway adventure by going off-road to some of the island’s most beautiful spots and pristine beaches, including Patterson Beach and the Henrietta Rocks. You’ll also get to see the rockpool at Thompson’s Bay, and have enough time to meet some of the famous quokkas this area of Western Australia is known for.
Yet, it’s not all about the scenery! Explore the Kingstown Barracks and Bickley Battery gun emplacements, as well as the Jubilee Observation Post.
Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into Rottnest and the various attractions, including the military history and its role in the defence of Fremantle Harbour during the war.
Important details
- Start time: Your choice of morning or afternoon departure from Segway Tours WA on Bedford Ave
- Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Includes: Use of a segway, an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide, rider training and assessment, personal communication via radio, and all safety equipment necessary
3. Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Easily the most adventurous Rottnest Island tour from Perth is this tandem skydive experience! Make your trip to Western Australia unforgettable with this rush of adrenaline.
This activity can have up to 10 participants, so you won’t have to go through it alone! However, it’s also dependent on the weather, so you may need to ring up and do a weather check at least an hour in advance if it’s looking very cloudy or stormy.
“Great people, well run, beautiful venue, wonderful experience.” – Adam_C (read more reviews)
Before beginning your skydiving adventure, you’ll first have to complete some necessary paperwork and go over the safety briefing with your instructor.
At this point, you will automatically become a member of the APF (Australian Parachuting Federation). Now is also the time that you can pay for a photo and video package of the jump. Once that’s done, it’s time to take off in the plane.
After you and your instructor jump from the plane, you’ll have approximately 66 seconds of freefall before parachuting for around five minutes. Take this time to admire the incredible views of Rottnest Island and the Indian Ocean from above before landing on the beach.
Important details
- Start time: A prearranged time from Rottnest Island Airport
- Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Includes: A tandem skydive over Rottnest Island with a professional instructor, automatic APF (Australian Parachute Federation) membership, and a landing on a beach
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
4. Rottnest Island Guided Snorkel Boat Experience
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
One of the most laid-back yet informative Rottnest Island tours from Perth is this unique snorkelling experience.
Guided by marine biologists, you’ll gain an understanding of the local marine life by both swimming alongside them and hearing some fun facts.
In addition to the breathtaking sea creatures, you’ll also go snorkelling above colourful coral reefs and around fascinating shipwrecks. All ages and skill levels are welcome too. Ocean lovers won’t want to skip this one!
“I can’t rate this experience highly enough. Our guide Zoe (marine biologist) was so knowledgeable and helped us find some amazing things we would never have found snorkeling on our own. Thanks so much for an unforgettable day.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews)
Hop on board the 12-metre-long boat and meet your experienced marine biologist guide. There will be a maximum of 24 other travellers on board for you to have a chat with too. Throughout the three hours, you’ll get plenty of information about the marine life here.
The skipper will then take you out to some of the best snorkelling spots Rottnest Island has to offer. Swim through the crystal-clear bays that are home to more than 400 species of fish and 20 types of coral.
You may even get to see octopuses and stingrays. There are also multiple shipwrecks to explore and learn about.
You don’t need any of your own equipment on this tour, as Rottnest Snorkel provides snorkels, masks, fins and wetsuits of different sizes for anyone who needs them.
Important details
- Start time: 10 am at the end of the Fuel Jetty at Thomson Bay
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: Use of snorkelling equipment, plus a bottle of water, snacks, coffee and tea
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
5. Luxe Island Seafood Cruise – Rottnest Island
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you consider yourself a bit of a foodie or are simply looking for the most luxurious Rottnest Island tours, consider going on this Half-Day Luxe Island Seafood Cruise.
The best thing about this tour is you can spend it how you wish. Jump in the water and go snorkelling, or stay on the top deck sunbathing.
Catch your own lobster with the help of the experienced crew, or sit back with some bubbly and let the delicacies come to you once they’ve been cooked. It’s great for couples or families who have different interests yet still want to have an amazing trip together.
“Great food and great company. The staff were exceptional and really made the experience a pleasure. They were so friendly and nothing was any trouble. Only negative was the windy weather did not permit collecting the crayfish pots.” – Lynn_B (read more reviews)
Board your three-deck charter vessel ready for an all-inclusive four-hour trip. A welcome cocktail and a fruit platter is offered on arrival, and there are complimentary sodas, Howard Park wines, and both local and international beers as well.
Lunch is made up of a seven-course tasting menu, created by executive chef Tony Howell and cooked by your private chef. While the menu is based on seafood and other local ingredients, there are vegetarian menus and non-seafood options too so everyone can join in.
As you wait for your food to be cooked, take a refreshing dip in the calm, pristine waters of Longreach or Parakeet Bay. You also have the option to do a bit of lobster fishing yourself if you wish.
Important details
- Start time: 11:30 am at the Thomson Bay Fuel Jetty
- Duration: 4 hours
- Includes: Lunch provided by an onboard chef and full service crew, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, the opportunity to catch your own lobster, specially-designed float mats and access to the upper sun deck
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
6. One Way Seaplane Flight Perth To Rottnest Island
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 15 min flight | ✅ Book it!
While most travellers take a trip to Rottnest Island by ferry, there’s an even more daring way to arrive there. Get to the island from Perth in just 15 minutes on an incredible seaplane flight as you marvel at the views of the ocean and the cityscape from above.
Note that this is only a one-way flight, so you’ll need to make additional arrangements to make your way back to the mainland!
“Fantastic service and great experience. Taking off from the Swan River was smooth and the views of the city were great. The views before landing in Rottnest were truly amazing. Highly recommend the experience.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews)
Departing from the Swan River, you’ll fly by iconic city attractions like Crown Perth and Optus Stadium. You’ll also get unique aerial views of Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Cottesloe Beach and Fremantle.
As you begin your descent into Rottnest, take in the mix of colours, from the green trees to the pink lakes and turquoise blue bays.
Important details
- Start time: Differing start times, departing from the South Perth Fishing Jetty or pickup from selected Perth hotels
- Duration: 15 minutes
- Includes: A scenic, one-way seaplane flight departing from Perth’s Swan River to Rottnest Island
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
7. Discover Rottnest With Ferry & Bus Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
This popular full day trip to Rottnest Island is one of the best getaways for those who have more time to spare.
Cruise down the Swan River past beautiful city landmarks, travel the island via air-conditioned coach, spot some of the infamous quokkas and fur seals, and spend your afternoon exploring Rottnest at your leisure.
While most travellers will likely start this tour from Perth, you can also take this Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle.
“The tour was amazing from start to finish. The ferry over gave us beautiful views and there was great commentary on board. The island was stunning and the bus tour around was great if you wanted to get a look at the whole island. We saw quokkas all over and got the famous selfie with them. Overall a great trip that I highly recommend.” – Skye_B (read more reviews)
From Perth, your adventure will begin with a high-speed ferry ride along the Swan River before reaching Fremantle to pick up more passengers.
Once you reach Rottnest, hop aboard the air-conditioned coach for a 90-minute tour around the island and informative commentary from your local guide. You’ll learn all about the local marsupials, as well as the history and culture of the island.
While circling around Rottnest Island, stops will be made at attractions like the Wadjemup Lighthouse and the West End, where you can stretch your legs and admire the amazing views.
At Cathedral Rocks, have a look for the fur seals sunbathing. If you’re visiting between September and November, you may even be lucky enough to spot a humpback whale.
The guided tour officially ends at Thompson Bay. If you don’t want to worry about where to grab lunch, select the upgrade while booking to enjoy a delicious buffet at Karma Rottnest.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend however you like until it’s time to catch the ferry back to Perth. Rent a bicycle, go snorkelling or stand-up paddleboarding, visit the Rottnest Island Museum, or swim and relax at any of the island’s 63 beaches.
Important details
- Start time: 8:45 am from the Rottnest Express Barrack Street Jetty Terminal
- Duration: 8 hours
- Includes: A 90-minute coach tour with a local guide, same day return ferry to Perth or Fremantle and a round-trip cruise on the Swan River, an optional lunch, and Rottnest Island admission fees
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
8. Rottnest Island Round-Trip Ferry From Perth
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 7-8 hours | ✅ Book it!
This day trip to Rottnest Island from Perth allows you to completely customise your experience without an itinerary or strict schedule. Swim, snorkel, cycle around, and meet the cute quokkas at your own pace!
“Quokkas were good in their natural environment. Crossing on ferry was quite smooth. Tour was very informative.” – Marion_B (read more reviews)
From either Perth or Fremantle, catch a ferry to Rottnest Island. Once you arrive, how you spend the day is completely up to you! The Rottnest Island Visitor Centre has plenty of information, as well as maps you can follow.
It’s highly recommended to rent a bicycle and ride around. This is completely safe, since the island is car-free.
There are more than 60 beaches and 20 bays on Rottnest, so it’s easy to find a gorgeous place to go swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelling or surfing. Or, you can relax on the soft white sands and watch the yachts bobbing in the distance.
If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the island, head to the Rottnest Island Museum, Lomas Cottage, Pilot Boathouse, and the Salt Store and Exhibition Centre.
Of course, you’ll have to see the quokkas at Rottnest Island. Groups of these adorable little creatures are found right across the island, so you won’t have to look far and wide to spot them. Don’t forget to take an iconic selfie!
At the end of the day, you’ll take the return ferry back to the Barrack Street Jetty in Perth.
Important details
- Start time: 8:45 am from the Rottnest Express Barrack Street Jetty Terminal
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Includes: Rottnest Island admission fees and a same-day return ferry trip between Rottnest Island and Perth
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
FAQs About Tours to Rottnest Island
what is the best way to see rottnest island?
The best way to see Rottnest Island is to take a guided tour. There are several tours offered that will take you around the island and show you all of its natural beauty.
Many of these tours also offer activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. Taking a ferry from Fremantle or Perth also gives visitors the chance to explore the island at their own pace.
No matter which option you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience on Rottnest Island!
is rottnest island expensive?
Rottnest Island is a popular tourist destination located off the coast of Western Australia. Although its popularity means that prices can fluctuate throughout the year, in general it is not considered expensive.
You can find budget accommodation options on the island, and there are also numerous free activities and sight-seeing opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
Additionally, many of the attractions on offer are free or have a minimal charge, which makes Rottnest Island an affordable holiday destination.
is it worth going to rottnest island?
Rottnest Island is definitely worth a visit! It’s home to some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, with pristine white sand stretching for miles.
You can explore the island by bike or take a scenic boat tour around the lagoon. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy from snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters to kayaking and paddling boarding.
Visiting Rottnest Island is an unforgettable experience that everyone should have during their trip to Australia.
Final Thoughts: rottnest island day trip from perth
Whether you’re into snorkelling, kayaking, or simply want to explore and take in all the beauty that the island has to offer, a tour is a great way to make the most of your time on Rottnest Island! Book one of these incredible tours today and experience a unique and unforgettable adventure.
No matter what kind of activities you enjoy, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. From fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities to cultural and historical attractions and experiences, Rottnest Island has it all. So don’t wait – book your tour today and start planning an amazing getaway!
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