Distance 11 km (6.9 miles) | |
Price range US$13-US$14 | |
Ride Duration Range 20m-40m | |
Earliest Departure 20:00 | |
Latest Departure 23:30 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
You have likely chosen Magnetic Island for its beautiful beaches, laid-back island atmosphere, and diverse wildlife, including the largest colony of koalas in Northern Queensland.
After exploring the island’s hiking trails and snorkeling spots, it is time to make your way by ferry back to Townsville.
Fortunately, the journey between Magnetic Island and Townsville is very straightforward because a ferry is your only choice.
Whether heading home or continuing your adventures, the ferry takes only 20 to 40 minutes and offers breathtaking views of Cleveland Bay along the way.
Townsville is a vibrant city that offers an array of experiences for every type of traveler.
Below are just some of the things you should include on your Townsville itinerary:
Take a scenic helicopter flight. For the best views, be sure to book a helicopter tour. You will be in awe of the dazzling blue ocean from above. There is even the option to stop at Havannah Island for a romantic picnic lunch.
Visit the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). As Australia’s first underwater museum, this location offers insights into reef conservation and restoration. It features four captivating installations designed by world-renowned sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor.
Head to the Queensland Museum Tropics. This museum is ideal if you want to learn about the rich culture and heritage of the area. There is a replica of the shipwrecked HMS Pandora, along with the objects recovered from the wreck.
Take a sunset hike to Castle Hill. For some of the most rewarding views over Townsville and the picturesque ocean backdrop, take one of the hiking routes to reach the top of this heritage-listed pink granite monolith.
Relax at The Strand. Townsville’s 2.2 km (1.37-mile) beachfront promenade is where you will find beaches, landscaped gardens, and parks. With soft speckled sand and palm trees swaying in the distance, it’s the best place to settle into the holiday mood.
Take a day trip. For those planning to spend a couple of days in Townsville, there are also some great day trips to enjoy. Visit the Paluma Range National Park for freshwater creeks, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Hug a wombat. If you are after a genuine Australian experience, you can’t miss the Billabong Sanctuary, located 10.6 miles (17 km) from Townsville. There, you can hold a koala or hug a wombat!
There is only one way to travel from Magnetic Island to Townsville, and that is by ferry. Prices start at $13.
You have the option of a 20-minute ferry, which is operated by SeaLink Magnetic Island or a 40-minute ferry, which can be booked with Magnetic Island Ferries.
SeaLink Magnetic Island is a passenger-only ferry. However, Magnetic Island Ferries allows you to bring your car on board for a fee, which is useful if you’ve hired a car for your trip. You can also walk on if you don’t have a vehicle.
Whichever of the two air-conditioned ferries you decide on, you can find multiple departures per day. The earliest one departs at 7 a.m., and the latest one leaves Magnetic Island at 6 p.m.
Both companies depart from Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal. SeaLink Magnetic Island will drop you off at Townsville Ferry Terminal, while Magnetic Island Ferries ends at Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal.
Both endpoints are located near one another and allow easy access to the heart of Townsville.
The journey from Magnetic Island to Townsville is a relaxing one where you will be greeted by breathtaking views of the Coral Sea, in particular Cleveland Bay.
Whether you are boarding the passenger-only ferry or the car/passenger ferry, staff will be available to make the whole process seamless.
On a clear day, the rugged outline of Castle Hill will appear, providing a striking backdrop to the city skyline of Townsville.
Pro tip: If you can get a window seat, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. It is truly incredible to see them in the wild.
Townsville experiences warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September. With lower humidity and minimal rainfall, the weather conditions are optimal for exploring the city and nearby attractions. Average temperatures during these months range from 63°F to 79°F (17°C to 26°C ).
Rainfall is usually at its highest between December and March. This also coincides with the stinger (jellyfish) season from November to May. Wear protective clothing when swimming to protect yourself.
If you visit during this period, there are still safe places to swim, such as The Strand North and South, which are patrolled by lifeguards and equipped with stinger nets.
If you don’t want your adventures around Australia to end in Townsville, there are several other amazing spots to explore.
If you wish to head further north, why not check out Cairns? It is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and home to the Daintree Rainforest.
From Townsville to Cairns, you can take a short 55-minute flight or board the Greyhound Australia bus, which takes 5.5 hours.
Otherwise, if you plan on heading south of Townsville, Airlie Beach is a fantastic place to head next. From there, you can see why everyone falls in love with the sparkling aquamarine waters of the Whitsundays.
The bus from Townsville to Airlie Beach takes a little over four hours.
Although you may be starting your holiday on your own, you`ll likely end up spending your entire holiday with others.
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