Rottnest Island – An Accessible Holiday from Start to Finish
We firmly believe that Rottnest Island is one of the most spectacular places in the world. We also feel that everyone should have the opportunity to see the island at least once in their life. That’s why we’re so proud to offer accessible ferries to Rottnest and are happy to help plan fully accessible trips.
Here we share an example of what your itinerary could look like when you visit the world-renowned Rottnest Island.
Catching a Rottnest Ferry
While you have a few choices of how to get to Rottnest, ferries are usually the easiest and most affordable. Rottnest Fast Ferries are particularly convenient, offering the fastest Rotto ferry service as well as free parking and city transfers. Our services are also accessible for items up to 88cm wide – just let us know your requirements when you book.
Once you’re onboard, you can enjoy the 45-minute trip in complete comfort. Our airconditioned cabin will keep you nice cool and you can take in the view or make the most of our free wifi. We also offer food and drink for purchase and accessible facilities on all our Rottnest Ferry services.
Seeing the sights
Once you’ve made it to the island, the fun continues – the biggest challenge is deciding what to do first.
Bus tours on the island are particularly popular and a great way to get the lay of the land. We recommend the Bayseeker Island Tour, which takes in all the major sites as well as the area’s unique wildlife. And to make things even easier, you can book your seat as part of your Rotto ferry package.
Prefer to make your own way? A meander along the step-free boardwalk is a great way to take in the scenery and enjoy the sea air. Remember to take your camera as there’s sure to be plenty of photo ops!
Alternatively, you can make your way off the beaten track and see the stunning flora and fauna up close. Beach wheelchairs, electric scooters, and hand propelled bikes are all available for hire on the island. For further independence, petrol powered golf carts can also be arranged, though these are not fitted with hand controls.
Enjoying the local hospitality
All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite. Thankfully, there is no shortage of high-quality eateries available on Rottnest Island. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or something more substantial, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
While you really can’t go wrong, we do have a couple of favourite spots. For great coffee and an easy snack, try The Lane café, conveniently located in the Thomson Bay Settlement mall. And you can’t miss the famous sourdough pizza at the fully licensed Frankie’s on Rotto.
Once your physical hunger has been satisfied, it might be time for a serving of history and culture. And there’s no better place to get that than at the recently renovated Wadjemup Museum. Here you’ll find a collection of artworks and artefacts that tell the story of the island and the various roles it’s played over the last 40,000 years.
Want to make it more than just a day trip? No worries – there is a range of ways to stay on the island, from campgrounds and hostels to premium holiday units and resorts. Most places also have accessible options, though we recommend booking your accommodation well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Keeping the good times going
If you’re anything like us, you’ll never want to leave the island. And the good news is, the fun doesn’t have to stop with your return Rottnest Island Ferry service. Once your back on the mainland, your ticket entitles you to 15% of a Rottnest Fast Ferries whale watching experience.
That’s right! We can also get you up close and personal with the ocean’s most majestic creature, the Humpback Whale.
Operating September – November, you’ll depart from Hillarys Boat Harbour on a 2-hour cruise aboard our brand new, state of the art vessel. Onboard, you’ll enjoy panoramic windows, a licensed bar selling drinks and snacks, and fully accessible facilities. We are also Perth’s only whale watching cruise with live commentary from an onboard AQWA marine biologist.
Need help planning your Rottnest Island getaway?
At Rottnest Fast Ferries we’re experts in much more than just how to get to Rottnest Island. Our team is committed to helping everyone experience the island’s unparalleled natural beauty and we are always happy to answer questions. Whether you need advice on ferries to Rottnest Island, or what to do once you’re there, we can help.
Contact our friendly team today to start planning a truly unforgettable trip.