Magnetic Island Round-Trip Ferry From Townsville

Townsville , Australia

Magnetic Island Round-Trip Ferry From Townsville

Active

(137 reviews)

20m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy the secluded paradise of Magnetic Island, a tropical destination known for its quiet beaches, rugged landscape, and abundant wildlife. Easily accessible via the ferry from the City of Townsville, Magnetic Island is only 20 minutes away with SeaLink, the quickest link to this idyllic tropical location to set the clock to island time.

SeaLink offers up to 17 trips a day to Magnetic Island, the ferry terminal in Townsville is located close to the CBD and The Strand and only 12 minutes from the Townsville Airport. You can easily make a day on Magnetic Island or stay for as long as you want, for the best island experience on the east coast of Australia.

Return tickets are valid for up to 180 days from purchase, so take your time and enjoy snorkel trails, and hiking trails of the Magnetic Island National Park, home to the largest colony of Koala's in Northern Australia, and a perfect base to explore the GBR.

Available options

Option 1

What's included

Return Trip Ferry Transfer

What you'll see

Enjoy a quick and easy ferry transfer to Magnetic Island with SeaLink North Queensland. With up to 17 trips a day, and a short 20 minute trip across Cleveland Bay to the Magnetic Island Marina in Nelly Bay. The local Magnetic Island bus service meets every ferry arrival, and departure making it easy and affordable to explore Magnetic Island.

Spend as much time as you like on the island with the flexibility of a return ticket that is valid for six months with a range of accommodation to suit every budget. With 23 bays, plus many beaches with fringing reefs and a network of shipwrecks, there's plenty to explore in the water. You can explore the island by yacht, snorkelling tours, day trips to the Great Barrier Reef, sea kayaking, fishing and jet-skiing.

On land, almost 70 percent of the island is protected by national parks. You can walk along nearly 15 miles (24 km) of walking trails in varied terrain. Wildlife thrives here, as Magnetic Island is well known as the home to the largest population of Koala’s in Northern Australia.

The only self-contained island in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Magnetic Island has modern conveniences such as shops, spas, hotels and banks within reach of pristine wilderness areas.

After taking in Magnetic Island at your own leisure and expense, choose from up to

17 Ferry departure times to return to Townsville.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

97 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The return tickets are open dated for six months

Infants aged 0-4yrs travel for free and do not require a ticket

Meeting point

When you are on your return you will be departing from the Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal

About Townsville

Townsville is a vibrant coastal city in northern Queensland, known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and rich marine life. It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Reef HQ Aquarium

The world's largest living coral reef aquarium, offering a unique glimpse into the Great Barrier Reef.

Museum 2-3 hours AUD 30-40

Magnetic Island

A beautiful island just a short ferry ride from Townsville, known for its beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Nature Full day AUD 50-100 (ferry and activities)

Castle Hill

A prominent landmark in Townsville offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

The Strand

A beautiful beachfront promenade with a lagoon pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Billabong Sanctuary

A wildlife sanctuary offering close encounters with Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and wombats.

Nature 2-3 hours AUD 30-40

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or fried and served with tropical fruits and vegetables.

Main Gluten-free, can be prepared without dairy.

Mango Chicken

A tropical dish featuring chicken cooked with fresh mangoes, creating a sweet and savory flavor.

Main Gluten-free, can be prepared without dairy.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh tropical fruits.

Dessert Gluten-free, contains dairy and eggs.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef Hiking in the Atherton Tablelands Skydiving at Mission Beach Beachcombing at The Strand Picnicking in the Riverway Lagoon Spa treatments at local resorts Visiting the Museum of Tropical Queensland Exploring the historic buildings of Townsville

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Townsville with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) / AEDT (GMT+11 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Townsville is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Townsville Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Townsville Station

By bus

Townsville Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sunbus is the primary public transport provider in Townsville, with a comprehensive network of routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Townsville City The Strand North Ward Aitkenvale Mundingburra

Day trips

Magnetic Island

8 km from Townsville • Full day

A beautiful island offering beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.

Palm Island

65 km from Townsville • Full day

A beautiful island with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich indigenous culture.

Charters Towers

130 km from Townsville • Full day

A historic gold mining town with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and a rich history.

Festivals

Townsville Cultural Festival • July Townsville Arts Festival • August Townsville Race Week • July

Pro tips

Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland and Reef HQ Aquarium for a comprehensive understanding of the region's natural history and marine life.
Take a day trip to Magnetic Island for stunning beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.
Explore the historic buildings and landmarks of Townsville, such as the Customs House and the Townsville Town Hall.
Enjoy the local seafood, particularly barramundi and prawns, at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Take advantage of the city's outdoor lifestyle by swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the nearby waters.