Bruny Island Tours

Bruny Island Ferry

Bruny Island ferry: Cruise to paradise

Ready to kick off your Bruny Island adventure? The Bruny Island ferry is your gateway to Tasmania’s most captivating coastline, delivering you across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel in just 15–20 scenic minutes. Whether you’re chasing wild landscapes, local flavors, or a bit of both, this ferry ride sets the stage for a day (or more) of discovery. From the moment you board, you’ll be treated to sweeping sea views and the promise of unforgettable experiences on the other side.

Bruny Island ferry timetable

Bruny Island cruise boat navigating cliffs and sea caves along Tasmania's rugged coastline.
  • First ferry: 6:30am (from Kettering to Bruny Island)
  • Last ferry: 7:15pm (from Bruny Island to Kettering)
  • Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes during peak hours, less frequent in the late evening.
  • Weekends and holidays: Schedules may vary, check timings closer to your travel dates. On public holidays, the last ferry may depart earlier, depending on demand.
  • Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Boarding points and terminals

Kettering Ferry Terminal, Ferry Road, Kettering, TAS

  • Just 30 minutes south of Hobart, the Kettering Ferry Terminal is the main departure point for ferries to Bruny Island.
  • By car: Take the Southern Outlet from Hobart, then follow the Channel Highway (A6) through scenic countryside to Kettering. There is ample parking near the terminal, but it can fill up quickly during peak times.
  • By public transport: Bus services from Hobart to Kettering are limited, but you can take a bus to Kingston and then catch a taxi or ride-share to the terminal. 
  • Facilities: Restrooms, a cafe, ticket counters, and waiting areas.

Bruny Island Ferry Terminal (Roberts Point)

  • Located at the northern tip of Bruny Island, this terminal is the arrival point for ferries from Kettering. 
  • By car: The terminal is about a 15-minute drive south from the ferry landing at Roberts Point to the main attractions like The Neck and Adventure Bay. The roads are mostly paved but can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
  • By bike or foot: If you’re traveling without a car, you can bike or walk from the terminal, though distances can be long, so plan accordingly.
  • Travel tip: Use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and precise directions, as phone coverage can be spotty on the island.

Bruny Island ferry tickets explained

Bruny Island coastline with lighthouse, part of Hobart full-day guided tour.

From Hobart: Bruny Island full-day guided tour

  • Starting from AU$159
  • Round-trip ferry transfers from Kettering.
  • Small group guided tour of Bruny’s main attractions, including The Neck and Bruny Island Lighthouse.
  • Wildlife spotting and gourmet tastings (berries, cheese, oysters, wine, beer, and cider).
  • Includes light bushwalks and scenic viewpoints.
  • Recommended experience:
From Hobart: Bruny Island full-day guided tour
Cape Bruny Lighthouse with visitors exploring the Historic Lighthouse Museum on a guided tour.

From Hobart: Full-day tour with Lighthouse tour and tastings

  • Starting from AU$280
  • Includes ferry transfers, lighthouse entry, morning tea, and a Tasmanian lunch.
  • Small group tour with local guide.
  • Ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Bruny’s history and cuisine.
  • Recommended experience:
From Hobart: Full-day tour with Lighthouse tour and tastings
Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise boat navigating rugged coastline with cliffs and sea caves.

Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise

  • Starting from AU$180
  • 3-hour wilderness cruise around South Bruny’s coastline.
  • Round-trip ferry transfers from Kettering (if option selected).
  • Live commentary and local wildlife sightings (seals, dolphins, sea birds).
  • Upgrade to the full-day tour to include round-trip transfers from Hobart with Kettering ferry tickets.
  • Recommended experience:
Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise

Top sights on Bruny Island

Tour group savoring local cuisine with Bruny Island lighthouse in the background.

The Neck and Truganini Lookout

Stunning 360° views of the island’s two spheres.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse with visitors exploring the Historic Lighthouse Museum on a guided tour.
Bruny Island coastline with lighthouse, part of Hobart full-day guided tour.
Tour group savoring gourmet food with Bruny Island coastline in the background.
Tour group enjoying gourmet food with Bruny Island coastline view in Hobart, Australia.

Things to note before you take the Bruny Island ferry

Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise boat navigating rugged coastline with cliffs and sea caves in Tasmania.
  • Ferry departures: The Bruny Island ferry runs daily from Kettering to Roberts Point. The first ferry typically departs at 6:30am, with crossings every 20-30 minutes during peak times. 
  • The last ferry usually leaves Bruny Island around 7:15pm, but schedules can vary on weekends and public holidays.

Best time to visit

  • Summer (December–February): Warm, sunny days and calm seas make for a pleasant ferry crossing. This is also the peak travel period, so book early to avoid long waits.
  • Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May): Milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful wildflowers. Perfect for a relaxed island experience.
  • Winter (June–August): Quieter but cooler, with more unpredictable weather. The ferry still operates year-round, but packs warmly.
SEA Life London aquarium exhibit with diverse marine life, no-flash photography policy.
  • Photography: Allowed throughout the journey, but avoid flash photography around wildlife.
  • Luggage: Space is limited, so pack light if you’re traveling without a vehicle.
  • Accessibility: The Kettering ferry terminal is wheelchair accessible, but some parts of Bruny Island have steep paths and uneven terrain.
  • Pet policy: Pets are allowed on the ferry but must remain in vehicles during the crossing.
Mt Fuji facilities with viewing deck and surrounding landscape.
  • Arrive 30-45 minutes early at the Kettering terminal during peak travel periods to avoid long wait times.
  • Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
  • Download maps and offline guides in advance, as mobile reception on Bruny Island can be patchy.
  • Bring contactless payment options for cafes and local stalls, as cashless transactions are common.
  • If bringing a vehicle, consider filling up on fuel before boarding the ferry, as fuel stations on the island are limited.

Frequently asked questions about the Bruny Island ferry

How long is the ferry ride from Kettering to Bruny Island?

Approximately 15-20 minutes each way.

Do I need to book the Bruny Island ferry in advance?

No, advance bookings are not required for the ferry, but it’s recommended during peak times.

Can I bring my car on the Bruny Island ferry?

Yes, the ferry accommodates vehicles, bikes, and motorcycle.

Are pets allowed on the Bruny Island ferry?

Yes, pets are allowed, but must remain in your vehicle during the crossing.

Is there a last ferry from Bruny Island?

The last ferry typically departs around 7:15pm, but this can vary on public holidays.

Bruny Island Tours
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