Access to Kangaroo Island is primarily through Cape Jervis on mainland South Australia, which serves as the ferry departure point, and Kingscote Airport (KGC) on Kangaroo Island for air travel, with Adelaide Airport (ADL) being the main connecting hub.
Ferries depart from Cape Jervis, located approximately a two-hour drive south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, arriving at Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. The journey typically takes 45 minutes. SeaLink operates vehicle and passenger ferries with multiple daily services; advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak periods. Indicative one-way fares for 2025 include approximately $50-70 for an adult passenger and $100-120 for a standard car.
Coach transfers are available from Adelaide Central Bus Station to Cape Jervis, connecting directly with ferry departures. A passenger-only ferry option is also available, which can be a more economical choice.
Flights operate from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Kingscote Airport (KGC) on Kangaroo Island, with a flight time of approximately 30-40 minutes. QantasLink and Regional Express (REX) are among the airlines servicing this route. Costs for flights are generally higher than ferry travel; for example, a one-way fare from Adelaide can start around $185. For travelers from other major Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne, flights typically involve a layover in Adelaide.
There is no public transport or taxi service on Kangaroo Island. Car rental is available at Kingscote Airport and near the Penneshaw ferry terminal; booking a car in advance is advisable. Peninsula Coaches offer a shuttle service connecting Penneshaw, American River, and Kingscote, which can be used by walk-on ferry passengers. Many visitors opt for guided tours or hire a car to explore the island independently.
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