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.
See Availability.
1: Breakwater ferry terminal, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
2: Magnetic Island ferry terminal, Nelly Bay QLD 4819, Australia
20 minutes(approx.)
1: Magnetic Island ferry terminal, Nelly Bay QLD 4819, Australia
2: Breakwater ferry terminal, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
The return tickets are open dated for six months
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Posted By : WendyM884
Booking the ferry online was easy, but I was disappointed that there was no seat reservation. This meant first in first served. We were told to be at the Ferry at least 20 minutes before boarding in case the Ferry was busy. As it was school holiday time, we panicked and ensured we were there at least 45 mins ahead of time. There was no need to do this on an early morning trip. On the return trip, the workman pushed into the line, which was disconcerting to me as I have a current mobility problem and use a walking stick. They were determined to be first in line and weren't concerned about anyone else. On the return trip, there was also a lot of luggage, and although passengers were asked to stay seated until the Ferry docked, those with large bags got up early and took over the exit. This was also a concern as I was sitting in a priority seat by the exit door and was frightened that I was going to be crushed by the luggage. I feel this needs better control especially to ensure older people and those with mobility concerns are not injured. Otherwise the Ferry was smooth and we enjoyed Magnetic Island.
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Posted On : 2024-04-11
Posted By : Ben_W
Great facilities and the perfect journey to the island. Loved that I could enjoy a beer (or two) on the way
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Posted On : 2023-12-21
Posted By : Barbara_O
The service was very efficient and they waited a couple of minutes for us to get on an earlier ferry than we had originally booked. All together we were very impressed.
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Posted On : 2023-11-18
Posted By : Simmo9511
Comfortable and easy way to access Magnetic Island. Both times I've been there was no delay it always left on time to and from the Island. The staff are all friendly and helpful at the travel desk and on the ferry.
I would suggest leaving some time to allow yourself to get on board if you haven't bought online tickets as car parking in busy times can be a bit of a walk + it is a $9.00 daily parking fee.
I would of rated it 5 Stars however in my opinion it is a bit pricey for tickets there is a small discount online. Overall it's a good way to get to the Island.
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Posted On : 2023-08-21
Posted By : joris_T
The service was perfect and the food at the terminal was also very nice.
On the return trip from magnetic Island to Townsville, the ferry waited for the bus so we could all return and did not have to wait a extra hour.
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Posted On : 2023-08-14
Posted By : 798lorrainet
Very enjoyable way to travel to Magnetic Island . Very comfortable and staff very friendly . I had a knee injury and was able to board easily .
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Posted On : 2023-08-01
Posted By : Q1062IRscotth
The safety and information videos of things to do on Magnetic Island, and back in Townsville, playing in the terminal and on board were great ways to spend your waiting time. Book online and get a discount. Or some services, such as the 6:15am are some times half price. Buses meet the ferry at both ends. I recommend getting to the terminal early if you want to be outside on the top deck as this is quite popular.
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Posted On : 2023-08-01
Posted By : rebelnorm
I can only imagine how much money they make by cramming hundreds of passengers on this ferry at 39 dollars per person. At that price I would expect more amenities on there and certainly I have caught other similar ferries around Australia for a fraction of that price. But it is fast, I’ll give it that.
Be sure to collect some booklets about magnetic island at the terminal or information center when you get there. They have useful maps and a list of attractions
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Posted On : 2023-07-16
Posted By : Pete_S
Easy to use and nice people. However before you line up to board get to see if the tickets that were sent to your phone, can be used. We lined up, waited to board, and then were told we needed to go to the counter and have paper tickets printed. Would have been nice to be told that prior to waiting in the boarding line.
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Posted On : 2023-07-13
Posted By : NealeP6
Easy, relaxed 20 minute journey each way. Comfortable seating on these vessels.
If you want to have a drink there is a bar on board as well.
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Posted On : 2023-07-10
