Rottnest Express (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Rottnest Express?
What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Children pay child fares, volunteer guides run holiday programs, playgrounds and shallow bays are near the jetty, yet motion sickness and extra gear logistics lower the otherwise excellent suitability.
Positives:
- Priority boarding with prams: Fold and stow prams to board early and settle in faster.
- Free travel for young children: Kids under 4 travel free without needing a seat on the ferry.
Challenges:
- Motion sickness risk: Rough seas can upset stomachs; pack motion bands or meds.
- Limited shaded seating: Deck areas have scarce shade; bring hats and sunscreen.
What is Rottnest Express?
- A ferry operator linking Perth’s Elizabeth Quay and Fremantle jetties with Rottnest Island
- A fleet of catamarans and passenger vessels designed for reliable transport across the Indian Ocean
- A year-round service offering multiple daily scheduled departures
What is so special about Rottnest Express for with kids?
- Scenic 25–45 min ferry ride with comfy seating and coastal views
- Safe snorkeling at The Basin with shallow waters and lifeguards
- Chase quokkas around Thomson Bay for memorable family photos
- Enjoy mini golf, arcade games, and hop-on bus tours suitable for all ages
- Family-friendly facilities onboard and free kids activities on island
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour trip lets families enjoy the ferry ride and top island activities without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Rottnest Express
Swim and snorkel at The Basin:
Explore the shallow, reef-protected lagoon near Thomson Bay.
Tip: Bring kids’ snorkel gear or hire on island; check for weekend lifeguards in summer.
Quokka selfie hunt:
Wander around Thomson Bay and The Basin to find friendly quokkas.
Tip: Use a free bingo card to track quokka sightings and teach kids to observe wildlife from a distance.
Rottnest Movies & Mini Golf:
Play an 18-hole mini golf course and arcade, then catch a family movie.
Tip: Book tee times early to avoid queues; bring socks for the indoor arcade.
Island Explorer hop-on/hop-off bus:
Take the scenic bus tour to Wadjemup Lighthouse and Oliver Hill.
Tip: Hop off at picnic spots under shade; reserve seats in advance on busy days.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rottnest Express
- Choose morning departures: Early ferries are cooler and less crowded for families.
- Pre-book equipment: Reserve snorkel gear and bus seats online to save time.
Reviews of Rottnest Express
Gary Ball
Very informative intimate coach tour around beautiful Rottnest Island. Stunning landscapes with views as good as anywhere in the world. Abbie was full of local knowledge about the island, the history of the island & the indigenous population. Very capably driven around by Larry around the winding trails full of cyclists & walkers. Watch out for the adorable Quokkas, probably the most popular attra...
Carla Street
This was a great bus tour. Eli was really informative and funny. It's a quick tour but perfect as part of a day visit.
J G
Fantastic tour, Ella was amazing and the driver as well, we saw the most amazing ocean views and learnt a lot. A bit more time at the biggest stop would have been great, but had the best time nonetheless. 😀
Mark Hutchinson
A fantastic tour that's the best way to see the whole island comfortably. Our guide, Holly and driver Mark, were brilliant, offering great insights and a relaxed pace. They even made a special detour for us to see whales! The bus was comfortable and the views were stunning. Highly recommended.
Linda Hart
Great price and service, we also hired the bikes for the island. Boat left on time each way. We were very blessed with amazing weather. We got the 9:30am boat on the way over and the 2:15pm on way back. This was ample time to ride the island, have lunch and get great photos with the quokkas. Parking was only $12 for all day and only a couple of minute walk to the boat.
When is the best time to visit Rottnest Express (Perth, Australia)?
In summer (Nov–Jan), lifeguards patrol The Basin on weekends—ideal for safe swims. In Sep–Nov, watch for migrating whales from the ferry. School holidays feature free kids’ programs by volunteer guides.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Return ferry tickets (2 adults + 1 child) | AUD 184 |
| Snorkel gear hire (2 kids) | AUD 50 |
| Mini golf & arcade (2 adults + 1 child) | AUD 34 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 268 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Rottnest Express
Address: 2 Barrack St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
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About Rottnest Express
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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