FerryConnect

Australia

Townsville → Magnetic Island

SeaLink’s fast passenger ferry links Townsville with Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island, a mostly national-park island with koalas in the wild, granite headlands and bays reached by the island bus.

⏱ About 20m🚢 1 operator📅 Up to 17 services a day🐕 Pet friendly
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Townsville to Magnetic Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Townsville to Magnetic Island takes About 20m across the Cleveland Bay (Coral Sea), operated by SeaLink. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: up to 17 services a day.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: sealink.com.au · sealink.com.au · sealink.com.au · sealink.com.au · How we verify

Return crossing: Magnetic Island to Townsville

SeaLink also sails Magnetic Island to Townsville, taking About 20m.

Townsville to Magnetic Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Up to 17 services a day, from 5:30am to about 10:30pm

Extra peak services on weekday school runs and weekend mornings/afternoons.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official SeaLink timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: SeaLink Magnetic Island timetable page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Townsville and Magnetic Island

📐 6 Nautical Miles
Townsville⇄Magnetic Island
⏱ About 20m · 📐 6 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

Ready to cross from Townsville to Magnetic Island?

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
SeaLink20mHigh-speed passenger catamaran

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

6 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Townsville departures use the Breakwater Terminal on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive.
  • Ferries arrive at Nelly Bay Terminal on Magnetic Island.

Related Ferry Crossings

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my dog to Magnetic Island on the SeaLink ferry?
Yes, under SeaLink’s Control of Animals Policy: dogs must be muzzled and sit on the outer decks, and other animals must travel in a suitable container.
How long is the ferry from Townsville to Magnetic Island?
The crossing typically takes About 20m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Townsville to Magnetic Island ferry sail?
Up to 17 services a day, from 5:30am to about 10:30pm. Extra peak services on weekday school runs and weekend mornings/afternoons. This is the pattern published in the SeaLink Magnetic Island timetable page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Townsville to Magnetic Island?
SeaLink operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Townsville to Magnetic Island ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Townsville to Magnetic Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
How far is Townsville from Magnetic Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 6 nautical miles (roughly 11 km).