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How Long Is The Ferry Ride To K'gari (Fraser Island)?

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Gabby Boucher
Updated Wed 10 Jul 2024

The ferry to K’gari (Fraser Island) only takes 10 minutes from Inskip Point and 30 minutes from River Heads. It’s not surprising that K'gari has become a favourite destination for hundreds of thousands of visitors from all around the world! There are plenty of things to do on K'gari and now that you’re ready to discover the natural wonders of this tropical paradise, first, you need to know how to get there by ferry!

a man and a woman on their way to the k'gari ferry


How Many Ferries are there to K’gari (Fraser Island)?

There are two ferries from the Australian mainland to K’gari (Fraser Island). The shortest, the Manta Ray Barge from Inskip Point near Rainbow Beach takes 10 minutes. The longer one is the Fraser Venture Ferry from River Heads near Hervey Bay. This one travels to Wanggoolba Creek, near Kingfisher Bay Resort, and takes 30 minutes.

Read our complete guides to the Inskip Point Ferry and River Heads Ferry for timetables and more info!

K'Gari (Fraser Island) Ferry Locations Map


How Much Does the Ferry to K'gari (Fraser Island) Cost?

The K'gari ferry ticket prices vary during peak and off-peak seasons. So, depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you should definitely be aware that prices change. Also, be sure to check with the ferries directly for up-to-date prices. Costs vary depending on your vehicle and travel dates. 

For a standard 4WD including passengers, the Fraser Venture Barge ferry will cost you:

  • One-way ticket for 4WD: $123

For a standard 4WD including passengers, the Manta Ray Barge ferry ticket usually costs:

  • Return ticket for 4WD: $140

Walk-on passengers are welcome as well! Costs are around $80 return for a person on the K'gari ferry.

woman spreading her arms aboard a ferry


Do I Need to Book the K'gari (Fraser Island) Ferry In Advance?

It is recommended that you book the ferry to Kingfisher Resort ahead of time, as there are only four services a day. Get in touch with the provider on 1800 372 737 for more details. The Manta Ray Fraser Island Barge from Inskip departs every 30 minutes or so, so booking ahead is not essential. The River Heads Ferry can fill up quickly and is safer to book in advance just in case. 

However, if you prefer to book ahead for peace of mind, you can get in touch with the providers. So, all you have to do then is sit back, relax and enjoy the ride on your way to K’gari (Fraser Island)!

Girl with blonde hair on the barge from Inskip to K'gari


Which Ferry Should I Take to K’gari?

If you’re staying at Kingfisher Bay Resort or have your own 4WD to explore the western part of the island, you should choose the River Heads (Fraser Venture Barge). If you’re doing the Great Walk, choose the Inskip point (the Manta Ray Barge). Not sure what time the ferry leaves? We made a list of the departure times of the ferries and the differences in arrival points just for you!

4WD cars loaded on a ferry


Which Tours include a ferry to K’gari?

K'gari Day Trips

Travellers who are short on time can book a day trip to K'gari! Day tours depart from both Rainbow Beach and Hervey Bay, and they all include return ferry transfers. Spend an incredible day adventuring across the island with an expert guide, soaking in the magic ov the world's largest sand island!

Here are some of our most popular K'gari day trips!

4WD blue bus tour parked in a rainforest


K'gari Overnight Tours

Overnight tours to K'gari also include your ferry transfers. You can opt for a shorter 2-day, 1-night tour or a 3-day, 2-night tour. If you have even more time to spare, embark on a longer adventure with a 4-day or 5-day tour! K'gari has so much to see and do, so the longer you can spend here, the better!

aerial view of Lake Mckenzie


Call +61 7 4128 4479 to talk to travel experts and plan your trip to K’gari (Fraser Island)!

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