Island Bus Tours

Coach and Train Tours

Explore the stunning beauty of this A Class reserve in air conditioned comfort, taking in the amazing fauna and flora of the island, stunning beaches, woodlands and incredible salt lakes – all ending in a unique historic train ride. 

Grand Island Tour - 4 hour duration 

(Includes Lunch)

This all-inclusive Island tour includes all of Rottnest’s must see locations including the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Oliver Hill Gun Fortification and Tunnels and the majestic look-out point at the rugged Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh.  All major habitats are covered on this amazing tour, including Rottnest’s cultural and historical heritage ranging from Maritime, Colonial and Military history to future developments.

Departs: Daily from the Settlement Railway Station in Thomson Bay at 11:30am

Finishes: At the Main bus stop at 3:30pm

Highlights:

• Relaxing 5.5km train ride on the “Captain Hussey” 
• Intriguing 1-hour guided tour of the Oliver Hill Guns & Tunnels
•  Enjoy a delicious light lunch (provided)
•  The characteristic and historic Main Settlement
•  Henrietta Rocks, ship wrecks and maritime history
•  Native Quokkas (The happiest animal on Earth!)
•  Picturesque Parker Point – Stunning Bays and Beaches
•  Wadjemup Lighthouse and Noongar (Aboriginal) history
•  Rugged “West End” board walks and Fur Seal colony
•  The Salt Lakes and Thomson’s farm

Includes:

• Historic Train Ride
• Oliver Hill Tunnel Tour
• Light sandwich packed lunch
• Complete island circumnavigation guided air conditioned coach tour
• Multiple photo opportunities
• Local knowledgeable guides

Notes:

• We suggest bringing comfortable walking shoes, hat, camera,  sunscreen, swim wear and a towel in the event of a quick swim/dip into the water during post tour free time
• All admission fees are included within the ticket price
• Ferry transport is not included in the itinerary

To book your seat on the Grand Island Tour, please visit the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre or book online.

Bayseeker Island Tour - 1 hour 45 minute duration

This all-inclusive Island tour includes all of Rottnest’s must see locations including the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, the majestic look-out point at the rugged Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh and Oliver Hill Gun Fortification.  All major habitats are covered on this amazing tour, including Rottnest’s cultural and historical heritage ranging from Maritime, Colonial and Military history to future developments.

Departs: Daily from the Main Bus Stop in Thomson Bay at 1.45pm

Finishes: Back at the Main Bus Stop in Thomson Bay at 3.30pm

Highlights: 

• The characteristic and historic Main Settlement
• Henrietta Rocks, ship wrecks and maritime history
• Native Quokkas (The happiest animal on Earth!)
• Picturesque Parker Point – Stunning Bays and Beaches
• Wadjemup Lighthouse and Noongar (Aboriginal) history
• Rugged “West End” board walks and Fur Seal colony
• The Salt Lakes, Thomson’s farm and Oliver Hill Gun 

Includes:

• Complete Island circumnavigation guided air conditioned coach tour
• Multiple photo opportunities
• Local knowledgeable guides

Notes:

• We suggest bringing comfortable walking shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, swim wear and a towel in the event of a quick swim/dip into the water during post tour free time
• All admission fees are included within the ticket price
• Ferry transport is not included in the itinerary

Lighthouse Tours

Oliver Hill

Oliver Hill is located close to the centre of Rottnest Island and features a military remnants from World War II including a 9.2 inch gun and maze of underground tunnels.

Oliver Hill Train Ride

 Enjoy a train ride from the Settlement Railway Station to Oliver Hill on the Island’s 64-seat Captain Hussey train, where you can admire the beauty of the Island’s south-side.  The train departs daily from the Settlement Railway at 1.30pm. Boarding closes 10 minutes prior.

You can purchase your tickets online. 

Alternatively, you can buy tickets on the Island at either the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre or automatic Kiosk located at the main bus stop. Make sure you book in advance to secure your spot!

Oliver Hill Gun and Tunnel Tour

Now re-opened after important conservation works to the nationally significant defense heritage sites at Oliver Hill. Enjoy a Mini Island Tour taking in highlights of the island's south-side on the way to inspect the restored World War II 9.2 inch gun and maze of underground tunnels. Find out why guns were installed on Rottnest Island and how they operated.

One hour tour operates daily at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm. Tickets available at Oliver Hill and the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre.

Oliver Hill Prices as of September 1, 2014 :

• Oliver Hill Train Ride Only - Adult $20.00; Concession $16.00; Child $13.00; Family $41.00, Extra Child $5.00
• Oliver Hill Gun & Tunnel Tour - Adult $9.00; Concession $7.00; Child $4.00; Family $20.00, Extra Child $2.00
• Oliver Hill Gun & Tunnel PLUS Train Ride - Adult $29.00; Concession $22.50; Child $16.50; Family $62.00, Extra Child $7.50 

Scenic Joy Flights

Take a breathtaking scenic joy flight over Rottnest for a stunning aerial views of the whole Island.

Rottnest Air Taxis operate scenic joy flights from Rottnest Airport (900m from Thomson Bay), which is located on the Shuttle Bus route. Flights run daily on demand.

Scenic flight prices per person, minimum 2 people.

November 2016:

Rottnest Lap (10 min) - $89
Expedition (20 min) - $149
Grand Tour (35 min) - $199

To book, please visit http://rottnest.aero/scenic-rottnest

Segway Tours

Explore Rottnest Island's breathtaking scenery and natural beauty on your own revolutionary set of wheels.

Segway Tours WA will lead you on a journey of discovery and exploration into Rottnest's most hidden treasures. Entertain all your senses as you glide effortlessly around the island, rich with history and diversity. Gliding on a Segway is easy to learn and you'll quickly be on your way to experiencing an exciting, eco-friendly adventure.

1 hour Settlement Explorer tour

After being trained to safely ride and operate your Segway, you will be taken on a journey of exploration through the Thomson Bay Settlement. Learn about the amazing and sometimes controversial history of this pristine island. Cruise with us on your Segway and absorb the picturesque vistas of the natural beauty of the island. What you experience will leave you spellbound and wanting more.

Highlights

• Beautiful Thomson Bay
• The Quod
• Heritage Common area
• Lomas Cottage
• Pilot boathouse
• North Thomson Settlement
• The Basin
• Bathurst Lighthouse

1½ hour Fortress Adventure

This adventure takes you off-road to some of Rottnest’s most amazing places following a brief training session. We’ll let you get to know your Segway in our off-road experience area before embarking of an amazing tour, delving into the military heritage of Rottnest and its pivotal role in the defence of Fremantle Harbour. Learn how important Rottnest Island was in defence strategy during World War II. You’ll also have time to appreciate the pristine coastline and natural environment during your tour, pausing for photographs along the way.

Highlights

• Visit the Bickley Battery gun emplacements
• Jubilee lookout with panoramic views of the sparkling Indian Ocean

This Winter, enjoy a 20% discount off all of Segway WA tours. Tours start from $63.20 for 1 hour Settlement tour or $92 for the full off road 1½ hour adventure. Simply quote or book online using the promotional code, "SegwayWinter20".

Our Winter Schedule - Thursday to Sunday

0900       Fortress Adventure 1 ½ hour     
1100       Settlement Explorer 1 hour        
1230       Fortress Adventure 1 ½ hour     
1430       Settlement Explorer 1 hour        

Segway Tours WA provide informative, safe fun tours to all aged from 12 years and above. If you just wish to experience a Segway Tour on Rottnest Island, visit segwaytourswa.com.au or call 1300 80 81 80. Book online or contact our office. Corporate, private tours and team building exercises available.

Winner of the WA Tourism Award for New Tourism Development and TripAdvisor’s #1 tour to do on Rottnest Island.

Free Guided Walking Tour

While exploring Rottnest Island, you will be intrigued by stories of the past and want to discover more about our very unique Island.

The Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association offer a fascinating and educational range of free guided walking tours that for all visitors to enjoy. These tours depart regularly from the Meeting Post, located outside the Salt Store in the Main Settlement. Tour days and times can also be found on the signs beside the meeting point or inside your current Essential Guide.

History of the Settlement

See where gaolers and ship pilots lived and worked. Learn about how Rottnest became an Aboriginal prison in 1838. This 1 hour walking tour departs daily from the meeting post at 2pm.  

Reefs, Wrecks and Daring Sailors

Hear alluring tales of shipwrecks and sailors on this scenic walk to Bathurst Lighthouse. See the boathouse and replica pilot boat along the way. This 1 hour walking tour departs from the meeting post at 11am every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

Vlamingh Lookout and Salt Lakes Walk

Enjoy stunning views of the Island and learn about the remarkable agriculture carried out by the early settlers of Rottnest Island. From lookouts and lakes at the heart of the island, this 45 minute walking tour departs daily from the meeting post at 2:15pm.

Quokka Walk

Discover the famous marsupial unique to Rottnest Island, the quokka. Learn about this iconic and mysterious animal and watch them in their natural habitat. This 45 minute walking tour departs daily from the meeting post at 2:15pm.

Rottnest Island Voluntary Guides Association

To discover more out more about these tours and the Rottnest Island Voluntary Guides Association, visit the Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association website, or speak to the Guides based in the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre.

Eco Tours

Get on board the Eco Express for these high powered adventure tours, exploring the waters around Rottnest Island.

Rottnest Adventure Tour

Encounter rarely seen wildlife and explore the Island's wonderful coastline, with its secluded bays and idyllic beaches. Enjoy interpretive and entertaining commentary from knowledgeable and passionate guides.   To book or find out more, visit the Rottnest Express website or phone 1300 467 688.  

Underwater Rottnest Tour

Explore the Islands unique marine environment on this high powered snorkelling adventure. See colourful fish and many other incredible creatures as you snorkel the underwater playgrounds surrounding Rottnest Island. The tour is suitable for anyone from 8 years of age. To book or find out more, visit the Rottnest Express website or phone 1300 467 688.

Museums and Galleries

Visit the museums and galleries on Rottnest Island and soak up some of the local history and culture.

Rottnest Island Museum

Housed in the original old mill and haystore, it was built by Aboriginal prisoners in 1857. The museum provides fascinating insights and comprehensive information about the Island including history, marine wrecks, European settlement, Aboriginal prisoners, communication and recreations.

Entry is by a gold coin donation.

Salt Store Gallery and Exhibition Centre

Located in the centre of the Thomson Bay Settlement, the Salt Store is one of the oldest buildings on Rottnest Island.

Constructed by Aboriginal prisoners in 1868, the Salt Store was originally used to hold the bagged salt collected from two of Rottnest Island's salt lakes, ready for transportation to Fremantle.

In 1997 the limestone building was restored but still retains many of its original features. Today, this relaxed and unconventional venue is primarily used as a gallery space and hosts a variety of interpretive displays and unique art and photography exhibitions.

The Salt Store is available to hire for individuals and groups. If you are interested in hiring the Salt Store for your next exhibition, please contact the Product Development Officer.

Winter exhibitions listed below. Free entry.

Discover the Light: Wadejmup lighthouse - 25 Feb to 22 May 2016
A series of photographs are on display in the Salt Store between 10am and 3pm.
This exhibition marks the 120th anniversary of the opening (and ignition) of the second lighthouse at Wadjemup.

Lithgo: A Life Through the Lens - 22 May until  1 October 2016
A series of photographs are on display in the Salt Store between 10am and 3pm.
Discover George Lithgo’s creative flare as he captures life on Rottnest during the 1930s.

Lomas Cottage

Located on the Heritage Common, this cottage was originally built for John Lomas, an ex-convict and later ‘Imperial Pauper’ for whom the Government provided housing and provisions.

Over the years the cottage has served many different purposes. In 1997 it was restored to its original form and now serves as an exhibition space. The cottage provides interpretive information on the intriguing life of John Lomas and houses The Angelo Collection.

The 15 photographs which comprise the Angelo Collection represent some of the most significant portraits of life on Rottnest Island in the 19th Century.

The collection contains photographs of male Aboriginal prisoners engaged in a variety of activities on Rottnest Island and are perhaps the most significant and poignant photographs of their type.

Free Entry. Open daily from 11:00am to 12:30pm.

Pilot Boathouse

A striking display of Rottnest's maritime history, featuring a replica pilot boat and historic photographs. Located in the seawall east of the Visitor Centre.

Free entry. Open daily 2.00pm - 3.30pm.

Useful Links

• National Museum Australia
• National Trust Festival