Rottnest Express has announced the return of the late-night ferry service to and from Wadjemup, allowing guests to stay longer at the popular holiday destination, starting Thursday 30 October 2025.
The late-night ferry departs Rottnest Island at 9pm, operating Thursday to Sunday from late October through to December and Friday to Sunday from February through to mid-April.
In January, a new service runs from B-Shed at 7:30pm, allowing guests to enjoy dinner on the island after work, with return options to the return to mainland at 9pm or 9:30pm.
With this late-night service, day visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Rottnest Island, with opportunities to watch beautiful sunsets from some of WA’s most stunning beaches or dine at various restaurants and eateries. Guests with a 9pm or 9:30pm ferry ticket can enjoy exclusive offers from select island food, drink, and activity vendors.
More information is available on the website.
“Rotto is a beautiful destination, and we want our guests to stay a little longer, feel relaxed, and enjoy the stunning beaches and walking trails,” Rottnest Express general manager Niko Peranovic said. “Guests can complete their journey by watching a breathtaking Rottnest sunset with a cocktail in hand, followed by a leisurely evening meal, knowing that Rottnest Express will safely return them home.
“Just a short ferry ride from Fremantle or Perth, Rottnest Island has long been one of Western Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. Rottnest Express is more than just a ferry service, offering bike hire, bus tours, adventure tours allowing you to enjoy the Island life.”
“We know Rottnest Island is a favourite destination all year round, and especially during summer,” Minister for Tourism The Hon Reece Whitby said. “The return of the late-night ferry service means day trippers can enjoy everything the island has to offer, including incredible island sunsets or unique dining experiences.”
“The later ferry departure will significantly benefit island businesses, giving them the option to roster more staff and expand their services to better support tourism.”
Guests now have the opportunity to spend a full day exploring Rottnest Island, with Rottnest Express’s first ferry departing at 7:30am. The late-night ferry service is ideal for Red Rider pass holders, which allows WA residents the freedom and flexibility to take up to 10 return trips to Rottnest Island within a 12-month period, offering significant savings.
