Can you take a rental car on a ferry in Australia?
Yes, to some islands: with the rental company we book, Kangaroo Island, Bruny Island, Magnetic Island and North Stradbroke Island are allowed (Phillip and Bribie Islands too, by bridge), but damage while the car is on a ferry isn't covered. Rental cars can't go to Tasmania on the Spirit of Tasmania or onto K'gari (Fraser Island), so for those you rent on arrival or take a tour.
Island by island
| Island | Car allowed | How you get there | Closest option if not |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kangaroo Island (SA) | Yes | Car ferry from Cape Jervis, est. 108 km (about 1 h 30 min) from Adelaide | — |
| Bruny Island (TAS) | Yes | Car ferry from Kettering, est. 32 km (about 30 min) from Hobart | — |
| Phillip Island (VIC) | Yes, and no ferry needed: a bridge at San Remo | est. 142 km (about 1 h 45 min) from Melbourne | — |
| Tasmania | No: cars can't cross Bass Strait | Spirit of Tasmania ferry | Fly to Hobart or Launceston and rent there. Tasmania road trip |
| K'gari (Fraser Island) | No | Barge from Rainbow Beach or River Heads; 4WD and permit needed | Leave the car on the mainland and take a 4WD tour from Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay |
| Magnetic Island (QLD) | Yes | Car ferry from Townsville (nearest niftirent pickup: Cairns, est. 347 km) | — |
| North Stradbroke / Minjerribah (QLD) | Yes, sealed roads only (no beach driving) | Car ferry from Cleveland, on Brisbane's bayside | — |
| Bribie Island (QLD) | Yes, no ferry needed | A bridge, north of Brisbane | — |
Beach driving isn't allowed on any island.
What “damage on a ferry isn't covered” means
Your cover (standard or zero-deductible) doesn't apply while the car's on the ferry. Drive on slowly, follow the crew's directions, and photograph the car before you board.
Related questions
Quick answers
Can I take a rental car to Kangaroo Island?
Can I take a rental car on the Spirit of Tasmania?
Can I drive a rental car on K'gari (Fraser Island)?
Do I need to book the ferry myself?
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