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Bruny Island Ferry: Best Guide To Tickets, And Travel Tips in 2025

Bruny Island Ferry is the easiest way to get to Bruny Island, one of Tasmania’s most beautiful places. It takes you from the mainland to the island to enjoy amazing nature, wildlife, and local food. Whether you’re going for a day or a longer stay, you’ll need to take the ferry.

In this guide, we will tell you all you need to know about the ferry, like ticket prices, schedules, and helpful tips for a great trip.

Why Visit Bruny Island?

Visiting Bruny Island is an unforgettable experience. It’s a beautiful place in Tasmania, full of amazing views, friendly wildlife, and delicious food. Whether you want to spend just one day or a whole week, Bruny Island has something for everyone.

The best part is that to get to the island, you need to take the Bruny Island Ferry. It’s the easiest and most scenic way to reach this special spot.

  • Stunning views: Bruny Island is full of beautiful landscapes, from green forests to stunning beaches.
  • Wildlife: You might even spot some white wallabies, which are rare and only found on the island!
  • Tasty food: Don’t miss out on local treats like fresh oysters, cheese, and other delicious food made right on the island.
  • Perfect for any trip: Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or staying longer, there’s always something to see and do on Bruny Island.
  • The ferry: The Bruny Island Ferry is the easiest way to get there, and it’s a beautiful ride across the water.

Bruny Island Ferry Overview

The Bruny Island Ferry has been the main way for people to travel between Tasmania’s mainland and Bruny Island for many years. This ferry service makes it easy for locals and visitors to reach the island, whether for a quick trip or a longer stay. It’s the only way to get there, making the ferry an important part of your journey.

Bruny Island Ferry
  • History: The ferry has been running for many years, connecting the mainland of Tasmania to Bruny Island.
  • How it works: The ferry travels across the water between Kettering on the mainland and the island’s main terminal, making it the only way to reach Bruny Island by sea.
  • Passenger and vehicle transport: Whether you’re traveling on foot or bringing your car, the ferry can carry both, making it easy to explore the island once you arrive.

Ferry Schedule and Timings

The Bruny Island Ferry runs regularly, but the times and frequency can vary depending on the season and time of day. If you’re planning your trip, knowing the ferry schedule can help you avoid long waits or crowded rides. You can read this article about Kangaroo Island Ferry Cost.

The ferry operates frequently during busy hours, but there are also quieter times if you prefer a more peaceful journey.

  • Departure times: The ferry runs more often during peak hours (like mornings and evenings) but has fewer departures during off-peak times.
  • Journey time: The trip across the water usually takes around 20-30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the view.
  • Best times to travel: If you want to avoid crowds, try traveling during the early morning or late afternoon when it’s quieter.

Bruny Island Ferry Timetable

The Bruny Island ferry operates every day throughout the year, providing an easy way for visitors to travel between Kettering (mainland Tasmania) and Bruny Island. The ferry ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes, and passengers need to arrive at least 20 minutes before their departure time.

Bruny Island Ferry

Here’s an overview of the ferry schedule:

  • Morning departures start as early as 6:30 am (except Sundays), with a frequency of one ferry every hour until noon.
  • Afternoon and evening departures are available at intervals, with the last departure at 7:15 pm.

Bruny Island Ferry Tickets and Pricing

When planning your trip to Bruny Island, it’s important to know how to book your ferry tickets and what the costs will be. The Bruny Island Ferry offers different types of tickets depending on how you plan to travel.

Whether you’re traveling on foot or bringing a vehicle, there are options for everyone. It’s also useful to know where to book your tickets and how you can find discounts, especially if you’re traveling with a group or looking to save money.

  • Ticket types: There are a few different ticket options for the ferry. If you’re traveling on foot, you’ll need a passenger ticket. If you’re bringing a car, you’ll need a vehicle ticket, which is priced based on the size of your car. There are also concession fares for seniors, students, and children, making it more affordable for families and those who qualify.
  • Booking tickets: You can book your tickets in advance online, which is highly recommended, especially during busy seasons, to ensure you have a spot. Booking online is quick and easy, and you can choose from different time slots. If you prefer, you can also buy tickets in person at the ferry terminal, but it’s always safer to book early to avoid disappointment.
  • Finding discounts: There are some ways to save money on ferry tickets. If you’re traveling with a group, many ferry operators offer discounts for large bookings, so it’s worth asking about group rates. Additionally, keep an eye out for special offers or off-season discounts. Some locals or regular travelers also know about promotional deals that aren’t widely advertised. For example, booking return tickets in advance can sometimes offer savings compared to buying one-way tickets.

Latest Prices:

  • Adults (Passengers): $40 for a round trip.
  • Car (Vehicle): $195 for a round trip (if your car is up to 5 meters long).
  • Larger vehicles: Extra charges apply for bigger cars.
  • How to book: You can book tickets online in advance, or buy them in person at the ferry terminal. It’s a good idea to book early, especially during busy times.

Bruny Island Ferry Cost Return

The cost of a Bruny Island Ferry return trip depends on the type of vehicle you are bringing. The fares vary for cars, motorbikes, and larger vehicles like trucks or those towing caravans. For a car or small vehicle under 6 meters, the cost for a return journey is typically AUD 50.60.

Bruny Island Ferry

If you are traveling with a motorbike or bicycle, the return ticket will cost about AUD 7. Larger vehicles like cars between 6-10 meters are priced at AUD 86.50 for a return trip. Pre-purchasing your tickets online can help save time, especially during busy periods.

Ferry Return Pricing Summary:

  • Small vehicle under 6 meters: AUD 50.60 return
  • Motorbike or bicycle: $7 return
  • Vehicle 6-10 meters: AUD 86.50 return
  • Larger vehicles (such as trucks or vehicles towing caravans) may incur higher fees
  • Pre-purchase tickets online to save time at check-in

Bruny Island Ferry Cost Per Person

The cost of a Bruny Island Ferry ticket per person varies depending on the type of journey, but for passengers traveling without a vehicle, the cost is generally free. Passengers who are walking on (without a vehicle) do not need to pay a fare, making the ferry an affordable option for those not bringing a car.

Bruny Island Ferry

However, if you are traveling with a vehicle, there will be an additional charge based on the size of the vehicle, as mentioned earlier. You can easily book your trip through TripAdvisor.

Summary:

  • Passenger (no vehicle): Free
  • Passenger with vehicle: Additional cost depending on vehicle size

What to Expect on The Ferry

Beautiful Views: 

The ferry ride is about 15-20 minutes long, but it offers lots of scenic views. As you travel across the water, you’ll see the lovely sea and sometimes parts of Bruny Island itself. You can spot its green forests, tall cliffs, and even wildlife like seals or seabirds if you’re lucky. The ride is calm and peaceful, making it a nice start to your trip.

Comfortable Ride:

The ferry has indoor and outdoor seating. If it’s sunny or warm, you can sit outside on the deck and enjoy the fresh air. If the weather isn’t as nice, you can sit inside where it’s comfortable and cozy. Some ferries also have a small café where you can buy a snack or a drink to enjoy during the ride.

Traveling by Car or Walking:

Whether you’re bringing a car or just walking on the ferry, it’s easy to get on. If you have a car, you’ll drive it onto the ferry and park it safely. If you’re traveling on foot, you just need to walk like a passenger. It’s a simple process, and the ferry staff will help you if you need it.

Arriving Early

To make sure you’re not rushed, it’s a good idea to arrive at the ferry terminal about 20 minutes before your ferry leaves. This will give you enough time to park your car or get ready to board. If you’re traveling with a vehicle, arriving early ensures that you have plenty of time to get on the ferry without stress.

Tips for a Smooth Bruny Island Ferry Trip

Arrive Early: 

It’s a good idea to arrive at least 20 minutes before the ferry leaves. If you’re bringing a car, arriving earlier helps you avoid any rush. If it’s busy, like on weekends or holidays, getting there even earlier can make your trip easier.

  • Arrive early to get a good spot.
  • This helps with parking your car and boarding without rushing.
  • Busy times may mean longer waits, so plan.

What to Bring on the Ferry

Make sure to bring some things that will make your trip more comfortable. Pack your camera for photos, a light jacket in case it gets cold, and snacks or drinks if you get hungry. If you’re traveling with kids, bring toys or books to keep them busy.

  • Camera for beautiful photos.
  • Snacks and drinks for the ride.
  • A jacket in case it’s chilly.
  • Bring something for the kids to play with.

Check the Weather

The weather can change depending on the season. In summer, it can be warm, but you might still need a jacket on the ferry. In winter, it can get cold, so bring warm clothes.

  • In summer, pack light, but bring a jacket.
  • In winter, wear warm clothes and layers.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go.

Things to Do Near The Ferry

Explore Kettering

Before you take the ferry, spend some time in Kettering. You can walk along the water and enjoy the view. If you like cheese, visit the Bruny Island Cheese Company for a taste of local cheeses. There are also some nice cafes to eat at.

  • Walk by the water in Kettering.
  • Visit the Bruny Island Cheese Company.
  • Grab a meal at a local café.

Things to See on Bruny Island

After you get off the ferry, there’s so much to explore on Bruny Island. You can see the Bruny Island Lighthouse and enjoy the views. There are also many walking trails like the Neck Lookout, where you can see beautiful views of the coast. Don’t forget to try the fresh oysters or chocolate made on the island.

  • Visit the Bruny Island Lighthouse for great views.
  • Walk to the Neck Lookout.
  • Try fresh oysters and chocolate.

Food and Places to Stay

There are good places to eat on Bruny Island, especially if you love seafood. The Bruny Island Oyster Shed is a popular spot for fresh oysters. For where to stay, you can choose cozy guesthouses or cabins, many with great views.

  • Eat fresh oysters at the Oyster Shed.
  • Stay in a cozy guesthouse or cabin with a nice view.
  • Enjoy delicious local food.

Conclusion: Bruny Island Ferry

Bruny Island ferry provides an accessible and scenic route to one of Tasmania’s most beautiful islands. With affordable pricing, frequent departures, and a quick 15-20-minute journey, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to explore Bruny Island. Whether you’re traveling with a vehicle or just as a passenger, the ferry is ready to take you across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Make sure to check the latest schedule to plan your trip accordingly.

For more travel tips and insights, visit discovertourplaces.com and start planning your next adventure.

FAQs

1. How many cars fit on the Bruny Island ferry?

The Bruny Island ferry can carry up to 40 cars at a time. If you are bringing a larger vehicle, like a caravan or bus, the number of smaller cars may be less.

2. How much is the ferry to Bruny Island?

The ferry cost depends on what kind of vehicle you’re bringing. A small car usually costs around AUD 50.60 for a return trip. If you’re taking a motorbike or bicycle, it’s usually cheaper, around AUD $7 for a return. Bigger vehicles like large cars or trucks cost more.

3. Do I need to book the Bruny Island ferry?

You don’t have to book the ferry, but it is a good idea to book in advance, especially during busy times, like holidays or weekends. Booking early makes sure you have a spot and don’t have to wait.

4. Do you need to book the Bruny Island ferry?

No, it’s not required to book in advance, but it’s highly recommended to avoid waiting for a long time or possibly missing out on a ferry, especially during peak times.

5. Do you need to book the Bruny Island ferry?

Again, you don’t need to book, but it’s better to do so during busy times, so you can be sure you get a spot on the ferry.

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