You can drive to Bruny Island, but only by using the Bruny Island Ferry to cross the D’Entrecasteaux Channel that separates the island from the mainland. Running between Kettering on Tasmania and Roberts Point on Bruny Island, the ferry takes just 20 minutes to cross the channel. Despite Bruny Island’s proximity to Tasmania, there are no bridges or direct road connections between the two islands. While taking the ferry adds a layer of complexity to visiting Bruny Island, it’s helped to preserve the island’s unique habitat and laid-back way of life.
Bruny Island is located just southeast of Tasmania and due south of the capital, Hobart. The island is separated from the mainland by a narrow body of water known as the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. The island comprises North and South Bruny, two land masses connected by the Neck, a long sandy isthmus. The island covers 362 km², the majority of which is within national parks or nature reserves.
Despite its proximity to Tasmania, there are surprisingly few ways to get to Bruny Island. Fortunately, the services that travel to Bruny Island run regularly and reliably. You should also be aware that the island has no public transport. Therefore you must bring your own transport or book a tour on the island.
These are the options you have for traveling to Bruny Island:
Road – There are no bridges, tunnels or road connections between Tasmania and Bruny Island. The only way to bring a vehicle to the island is by using the SeaLink ferry.
Sea – The only ferry service that runs to the island is between Kettering Ferry Terminal on Tasmania and Bruny Island Ferry Terminal at Roberts Point on Bruny Island. SeaLink operates the ferry service, and there’s a sailing every 20 minutes between 6.10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Times can vary at weekends and during the off-season, so always check ahead before leaving. You should also try to book your ferry in advance, particularly during the peak summer months. The crossing is quick, taking only 20 minutes to complete. A return journey costs $48.50 per vehicle.
Air – While Bruny Island does have an airport in the form of Bruny Island Airport (YBYI), there are no commercial flights into or out of the airport. The airport is primarily used for private aviation and sightseeing flights.
Bruny Island is renowned for its wildlife and wilderness, and most of the best attractions include one or more of these facets. While many people treat the island as a day-trip destination, there’s certainly enough to see and do to warrant a longer stay.
Here are the best things to see and do on Bruny Island:
The Neck Lookout – The Neck is the 5 km long sandy isthmus that connects North and South Bruny. In the centre of this sandy stretch is the Neck Lookout. If you scale the 279 wooden steps here to reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views. During the period September through February you can often see Fairy Penguins on the beach along the Neck at dusk.
Cape Bruny Lighthouse – Cape Bruny Lighthouse is situated in the South Bruny National Park and occupies a spectacular setting on the islands south-western tip. As well as the lighthouse, there’s plenty of hikes in the area as well.
Adventure Bay – Another popular destination is Adventure Bay, one of the islands best locations to kick back and relax in. The pristine white sand beach and relaxed local community make this an ideal place to stay overnight.
Wilderness Cruise – Bruny Island Cruises operates cruises that depart from Adventure Bay each day. Lasting 3 hours, these highly rated cruises give you the chance to see the island’s dramatic and rugged coastline, plus they offer a good chance of seeing whales, dolphins, and seals.
Spot a White Wallaby – The island has a sizeable population of native rare albino wallabies. While there’s a chance of seeing them across South Bruny, you will most likely see them in the Fluted Cape area.
Beaches – Bruny Island is covered in spectacular beaches, many completely deserted. While you’ll see other visitors at the Neck and Adventure Bay, if you venture further afield, you’re unlikely to see another soul. Some of the best spots include Miles Beach, Alonnah, Jetty Beach, and the surfer favorite, Cloudy Bay.
The best time to visit Bruny Island is from November through April. This falls across the Australian late spring, summer, and early autumn. You’ll experience the best of the island’s weather during this time. Temperatures are generally above 20°C at this time, and there’s much less rain than during the winter months. Much of this period overlaps with the best season to see Bruny Islands’ famous Fairy Penguins. These small animals reside in the area between September and February each year.
The only downside to visiting during the November to April period is that it’s peak season. This can mean less availability, longer queues for the ferry and more crowds. However, we feel that the better weather justifies a visit at this time. While Bruny Island is busier during this period, the islands size and remote setting mean it never feels too busy.
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