From Perth: Rottnest Island Grand Island Day Tour with Lunch

Imagine a day spent exploring one of Western Australia’s most iconic spots—Rottnest Island—without the hassle of planning. For just $125 per person, you get a full day of sightseeing, history, wildlife, and scenic views, with everything from ferry rides to guided tours included. Starting from Hillarys Boat Harbour, the trip whisks you across the water on a high-speed ferry, dropping you onto an island packed with natural beauty and fascinating history.

Our guide, Leah, was praised for her clear communication and friendly manner, making it easy to feel engaged from the start. The tour offers a perfect mix of guided bus exploration, a historic train ride, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local fauna, like the famous quokkas, along with sweeping views of lighthouses and salt lakes.

Two things we really appreciate: the well-organized itinerary that covers major sights efficiently and the knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s stories to life. One challenge to consider is that the tour schedule can be a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger at some spots or explore more independently.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balance of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty, and who prefer the convenience of an all-inclusive day. It’s especially ideal if you want a guided experience without the hassle of logistics—perfect for first-timers or those with limited time in Perth.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Ferry, guided bus tour, train ride, and lunch make this a seamless day out.
• Rich Heritage and Nature: Learn about Rottnest’s military history, salt lakes, and marine life.
• Wildlife Close-Ups: Quokkas are the star attraction, with many reviews highlighting how adorable they are.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Leah enhance the experience.
• Time Management: The tour covers many sights efficiently but might feel rushed for some.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned buses, historic train, and high-speed ferry contribute to a smooth day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out From Perth: The Essentials

Our day begins early at Hillarys Boat Harbour, a popular departure point just north of Perth. Arriving around 9 am ensures plenty of time for a quick explore and the recommended check-in before the 10 am ferry departure. The ferry itself, operated by Rottnest Fast Ferries, is notably quick and comfortable, making the crossing across 19 kilometers of ocean a breeze. Reviewers appreciate the fast ferries, describing them as “lightning-fast” and “very comfortable,” which sets a positive tone for the day.

Once on board, you’ll find yourself gazing at the Perth skyline fading into the distance, with the promise of a day full of discovery ahead. The boat ride is not only a practical way to reach the island but also a highlight for some: “We even saw a whale breaching,” one traveler shares, illustrating the potential for wildlife sightings even en route.

The Heart of the Tour: Guided Bus Exploration

Upon arrival, the real fun begins. Unlike just wandering aimlessly, this tour’s 3.5-hour guided bus tour is a highlight—offering an efficient way to see the most significant sites in a short amount of time. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a relief given Western Australia’s sometimes warm weather.

Your guide will share insights about Rottnest’s natural habitats, including salt lakes, beaches, and woodlands. You’ll visit Cape Vlamingh and Cathedral Rocks, both offering stunning vistas. The Wadjemup Lighthouse provides not only a photo opportunity but also a chance to learn about the island’s maritime history. The guide’s commentary is frequently praised—one reviewer mentioned how “the information about the places we visited was most helpful,” making the journey both scenic and educational.

Unique Perspectives: The Historic Train Ride

A special feature of this tour is the historic train that takes you from the main settlement to Oliver Hill. This vintage train, in service as a military relic, offers a nostalgic ride up to one of the island’s highest points. It’s a unique way to see the landscape and set the scene for the military history tour at Oliver Hill’s gun fortifications and tunnels.

While the train ride is generally well-received, some reviews note that it isn’t operating year-round. One traveler expressed disappointment that “the train has not been running for the past 6 months,” so it’s best to check if this feature is available when booking. Luckily, the alternative bus ride, which substitutes for the train, still offers plenty of scenic views and historical insights.

History and Heritage: Oliver Hill and Wartime Stories

One of the most compelling parts of the tour is the Oliver Hill fortification. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s military past, with guided visits to gun emplacements and underground tunnels. The military history adds an intriguing layer to your visit—it’s not just about beaches and wildlife but also about strategic importance during wartime.

One review notes, “the military tunnels and stories really brought the past to life,” adding depth to what might otherwise be a purely scenic trip. Volunteers at the site are informative, and the setting offers sweeping views of the coast, making this a memorable part of the day.

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Natural Wonders and Iconic Sights

From the historic sites, you’ll head to the Wadjemup Lighthouse, one of the key landmarks on the island. The lighthouse not only guides ships but also offers panoramic views of the coastline—perfect for photos. Nearby, Henrietta Rocks and Cape Vlamingh showcase rugged cliffs and interesting rock formations.

The tour makes stops at Cathedral Rocks, an impressive natural lookout. Many travelers find these viewpoints to be the highlight, offering a chance to photograph the stunning beach coves and salt lakes that give Rottnest its unique charm. The salt lakes, although not pink lakes as some might hope, demonstrate the island’s diverse landscape.

Wildlife Encounters: The Quokka Magic

No trip to Rottnest is complete without meeting the quokkas—those adorable, marsupial creatures that have become the island’s mascot. Reviewers describe them as “super cool,” and many cherish the chance to snap photos with these friendly animals. Some even mention how encountering quokkas is a high point of the day.

The tour’s structure allows for enough time at the end to visit the main settlement, where quokkas roost near the paths and photo spots. It’s a real treat for animal lovers and a photo opportunity you’ll want to share.

Lunch and Comfort: The All-Inclusive Advantage

The included light picnic lunch is typically a chicken wrap and a cookie, according to reviews, and provides just enough sustenance for a busy day of sightseeing. The lunch spot offers great views, making it a relaxing break amidst a packed schedule.

The tour’s all-inclusive nature means no worries about extra costs or planning. Ferry tickets, guided tours, train or bus rides, and the picnic are all covered, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a good fit for travelers seeking a rundown of Rottnest Island in one day. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer guided excursions to maximize their time and learn about the island’s history and natural environment. The mix of scenic stops, wildlife, and historical sites keeps everyone engaged.

It’s also ideal for families or groups who want a comfortable, organized day with transportation and meals included. However, if you’re an avid hiker or want to explore at your own pace, you might find the structured schedule a little restrictive.

This full-day tour offers excellent value, especially considering the all-inclusive price—ferry, guided bus tour, train ride, lunch, and transport from Perth. It’s a convenient way to see the highlights without the stress of navigating or planning logistics.

The knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities, from historical sites to wildlife encounters, add a lot of depth to the experience. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and informative the trip is, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

However, keep in mind that the schedule can feel a little rushed, especially for those wanting to explore more independently or spend extra time at certain spots. It’s best suited to travelers who enjoy a guided overview and are comfortable with some walking and steps.

Overall, if you’re after a well-rounded, engaging day on Rottnest Island—with the convenience of everything taken care of—this tour is an excellent choice. It balances natural beauty, history, and wildlife in a way that leaves most travelers with memorable stories and plenty of photos.

How early should I arrive at Hillarys Boat Harbour?
It’s recommended to arrive by 9 am for the 10 am ferry departure to ensure plenty of time for check-in and boarding.

Is the ferry ride comfortable?
Yes, travelers describe the high-speed ferries as quick and very comfortable, making the crossing across 19 km of ocean pleasant, even for those prone to sea sickness.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes ferry tickets for the same day, a 3.5-hour guided bus tour, a historic train ride, a picnic lunch, and optional hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Perth hotels.

Can I see wildlife such as quokkas?
Absolutely. Many travelers find quokkas to be adorable and approachable, with ample opportunity to photograph and interact with these friendly creatures during the visit.

What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights include the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Oliver Hill WWII military site, salt lakes, Cape Vlamingh, Cathedral Rocks, and the chance to see seals and possibly whales.

Is there any downtime?
While the schedule covers many sights efficiently, some reviews note the tour can feel rushed, especially at certain stops like the tunnels or the salt lakes. It’s a full day, but not overly long.

Who should avoid this tour?
It might not suit travelers wanting complete freedom to explore at their own pace or those with mobility issues, as some walking and steps are involved.

This detailed review should help you decide whether the From Perth: Rottnest Island Grand Island Day Tour with Lunch fits your travel style. With a good balance of guided insights, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters, it’s a practical choice for an engaging day on one of Australia’s most loved islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: