Perth Bike Day, Fast Ferries

The Rottnest Fast Ferries package from Perth pairs your return sailing with a bike for the day, so the island's car-free roads are yours to ride. Stop where you like, from the Basin to Wadjemup Lighthouse. Rated 4.7 from 2,941 reviews, from A$124 per person. Free cancellation applies.

Overview

This day trip bundles three things into one ticket: a courtesy hotel pickup from selected Perth and Scarborough hotels, a high-speed ferry crossing from Hillarys Boat Harbour, and a bike for the whole day on Rottnest. The ferry run takes 45 minutes each way. Rottnest has no cars, so the bicycle is not a gimmick, it is the way you actually get around.

The shape of the day is simple. You are collected from your hotel, pick up tickets and bikes before boarding, and can grab a coffee at Hillarys Boat Harbour while you wait. Once ashore, the island is yours. Pedal out to Wadjemup Lighthouse, push on to the West End, or hop between bays and beaches as the mood strikes. The listing suggests making time to meet a quokka and snap a selfie. The return ferry leaves at 4:30 pm and gets back to Hillarys at 5:15 pm.

It suits travellers who like independence. There is no guide or set route once you land, only a bike, a helmet, a lock and a full day. Anyone comfortable riding a bicycle for hours, and wanting to set their own pace, will get the most from it. Snorkel gear can be added at checkout for those who want to look below the surface too.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Hotel pickupA courtesy pickup runs from selected Perth and Scarborough hotels on request. The live booking page names the exact arrangements.
2. Hillarys Boat HarbourArrive at the terminal, collect tickets and bikes, and have time for a coffee before boarding. Free parking is available here for those making their own way.
3. Ferry crossingThe high-speed ferry crossing takes 45 minutes.
4. Day on RottnestThe island is car-free and yours to explore by bike. Options include Wadjemup Lighthouse, the West End and the many bays and beaches, plus the famous quokkas.
5. Optional snorkellingSnorkel and flipper hire can be added at checkout for an extra fee, subject to availability.
6. Return ferryThe ferry departs Rottnest at 4:30 pm and arrives back at Hillarys Boat Harbour at 5:15 pm, followed by the drop-off.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will shape how the day goes, drawn from the listing and from what travellers report back.

• Riding fitness. The bike is yours all day and the island is explored entirely by pedal power. One reviewer described aches in unexpected places the day after, so some cycling fitness helps. The listing also notes some travellers find the hire bikes worn, so do not expect new equipment.
• Sun protection. One reviewer found it really hot on Rottnest and advised bringing sunblock. Food and drinks are not included in the ticket, so plan for those separately as well.
• Food and drink. Nothing to eat or drink is included, so budget for lunch and snacks on the island or carry your own. Coffee at Hillarys Boat Harbour before boarding is a chance to stock up too.
• Cash for deposit. A cash security deposit is required at check-in for each bike hired. Have that amount ready so collection is quick, since several travellers noted how smoothly ticket and bike pickup runs when things are in order.
• Timing and organisation. Multiple reviewers describe the whole operation as well organised and on time, from hotel pickup through to the return drop-off. Arrive ready at the stated meeting arrangements and the day tends to run to schedule.
• Independent pace. There is no guided route once you land. One reviewer said they saw the highlights but suspected they missed things, so it is worth sketching a rough plan for the bays or lighthouse before setting off.

Common issues. The hire bikes draw the most complaints: some travellers say they feel worn, one reported sore muscles afterwards, and another described the bikes as nothing grand but workable. One reviewer also found the passage over a little rough. Child seats are not available on the bikes, and a cash security deposit per bike is payable at check-in. Food and drinks cost extra, and snorkel hire is an add-on fee subject to availability. Some services are wheelchair accessible for items up to 88 centimeters wide, which must be flagged when booking.

How To Choose