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Taking the ferry from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island? Here’s what to know

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K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) is the world’s largest sand island and if you’re visiting Brisbane or the Fraser Coast, it’s well worth the trip. This is a place where rainforests grow out of dunes, freshwater lakes shimmer under the sun, and wild dingoes still roam freely. But before you reach this World Heritage-listed paradise, you’ll need to cross the Great Sandy Strait. The easiest way? Catch a ferry from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island. In this article, we’ll take you through the best ways to make the crossing.

Ferry options: How to get there

There are two main routes for catching a ferry from the Hervey Bay region to Fraser Island:

Departure point: River Heads (about 20 minutes' drive south of Hervey Bay town)

If you’re heading to K’gari, most ferries leave from River Heads, a riverside port that serves as the main departure point to the island. From here, you’ve got two options depending on where you’re headed:

  • Wanggoolba Creek: This is the go-to drop-off for self-drivers with a 4WD permit. Nestled near the heart of the island, it gives you direct access to internal sand tracks that lead to top spots like Central Station and Lake McKenzie. Some tours also use this route for more central inland itineraries.
  • Kingfisher Bay Resort: This is the best choice if you’re staying overnight or joining a guided day tour. The resort ferry lands on the western side of the island and is the main hub for visitors without a 4WD. 

Travel time: Between 30 to 50 minutes, depending on where you’re headed and the tidal conditions.

Hervey Bay tours that include ferry transfers

If you're not bringing your own vehicle, a guided tour is the easiest and honestly, most relaxing way to explore K’gari. This means that you don’t have to plan logistics separately, just show up at the marina or shuttle pickup point and let the pros handle the rest. Here are your tour options:

From Hervey Bay: K’gari 1-Day Classic Coach Tour

  • Ferry included from River Heads
  • Ride in a custom 4WD coach across the island’s top attractions like Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, Central Station, and more
  • Perfect for first-timers and non-drivers

From Hervey Bay: Full-Day Whale Watching Cruise with Lunch

  • Boat transfer to K’gari’s remote western coast
  • Combines whale watching with kayaking, snorkeling, and beach time
  • Great for wildlife lovers and active travellers

Getting to River Heads

River Heads sits around 18–29 km south of Hervey Bay, depending on your exact starting point. It’s the main departure terminal for ferries to K’gari (Fraser Island), and getting there is pretty straightforward:

Drive yourself

It’s a 24–30 minute drive from Hervey Bay. From Boat Harbour Drive, turn onto Elizabeth Street near the Urangan Woolworths roundabout. Follow signs past the airport, then continue down River Heads Road (sometimes Ariadne Road on GPS) until you reach the ferry terminal at 54 Ariadne Street, River Heads QLD 4655. There's secure paid parking available if you're not taking your vehicle across.

Taxi or rideshare

A taxi from central Hervey Bay takes about 24 minutes, with fares ranging from $70–$90, or $30–$40 from the airport. Uber and other rideshare services also operate locally.

Shuttle service

If you're booking a guided tour, this part is often sorted for you. Most day tours include hotel pickup and drop-off with a smooth transfer to the ferry terminal.

What you’ll see on the crossing

As the ferry glides across the Great Sandy Strait, you'll pass calm, aquamarine waters that stretch between the mainland and the island’s wild west coast.

Look out for dugongs grazing on seagrass beds, dolphins riding the wake, and turtles surfacing near the ferry path. During July to October, there’s even a chance to spot humpback whales breaching in the distance as they pass through Hervey Bay.

Along the shores, saltwater mangroves and bird-filled wetlands edge the coastline, with sea eagles and wading birds circling overhead. And then towards the end of the journey you’ll see the inland dunes and lush forest cover of K’gari rising on the horizon.

Frequently asked questions on taking the ferry from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island

Do I need to book the ferry from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island in advance?

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended especially during school holidays or whale season (July–October).

Can I bring my car or 4WD on the ferry?

Yes, but only 4WD vehicles are allowed on Fraser Island. You must have a valid vehicle permit (issued by Queensland Parks) and book a vehicle ferry ticket separately. Standard 2WD vehicles are not suitable due to the island’s sandy terrain.

Where exactly does the ferry depart from?

Ferries leave from River Heads, about a 25–30 minute drive south of Hervey Bay. There are two main services: one to Kingfisher Bay Resort and another to Wanggoolba Creek, depending on your accommodation or tour.

How long is the ferry ride to Fraser Island?

The ferry crossing takes approximately 30 to 50 minutes, depending on tides and your destination (Kingfisher Bay or Wanggoolba Creek). It’s a scenic journey across the Great Sandy Strait with plenty to see.

Is there parking available at River Heads terminal?

Yes, there is secure, paid parking at River Heads for those leaving their vehicles behind.

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