LIST WITH US

How to Get to Magnetic Island​​

Travel to Magnetic Island

If you’re searching for how to get to Magnetic Island, the journey is wonderfully simple. All visitors first travel to Townsville, the vibrant coastal city that sits just 10km across the water from Magnetic Island. Whether you plan to fly, drive or take the train, Townsville is well connected and easy to reach from most major Australian cities.

Once you arrive, Magnetic Island is just a short ferry ride away. With frequent passenger and vehicle ferries operating every day, you can be on the island in as little as 20 minutes. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about getting to Townsville and making your way across to Magnetic Island smoothly.

FLYING TO TOWNSVILLE

Townsville Airport is serviced by Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas and Airnorth, making it the most convenient way to begin your trip. The airport is a quick 10km drive (about 15 minutes) to the Breakwater Ferry Terminal. Taxis meet all flights, and shuttle buses connect the airport with city hotels and the ferry terminal. It’s the fastest option for travellers planning how to get to Magnetic Island with minimal transit time.

DRIVING TO TOWNSVILLE

Townsville sits along the Bruce Highway, approximately 1,350km north of Brisbane and around 350km south of Cairns. Both ferry terminals are centrally located and easy to find once you arrive in town. For road trippers planning how to get to Magnetic Island while enjoying a scenic journey, driving is an excellent option.

BY RAIL TO TOWNSVILLE

The Spirit of Queensland offers a comfortable railway experience between Brisbane and Townsville, running five services per week. With modern seating and entertainment, it’s a relaxed way to travel long-distance. The Townsville train station is only a 4.5km drive from the Breakwater Ferry Terminal, making onward travel to Magnetic Island straightforward.

TRAVELING TO MAGNETIC ISLAND FROM TOWNSVILLE

Reaching Magnetic Island from Townsville is quick, affordable and easy. Two ferry companies operate daily services: Sealink Queensland (passenger ferry) and Magnetic Island Ferries (vehicle barge). Both arrive at the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal — just metres from the Best of Magnetic office, where guests check in on arrival.

SEALINK PASSENGER FERRY

Sealink runs up to 18 services per day, taking only 20 minutes to reach Magnetic Island. Tickets can be purchased at the Breakwater Ferry Terminal or onboard if the terminal is closed. Options include adult, child, concession and family fares. Sealink departs from Sir Leslie Thiess Drive in Townsville.

MAGNETIC ISLAND FERRIES - CAR FERRY

Magnetic Island Ferries operate up to eight vehicle barge departures daily, with a comfortable 40-minute crossing. Vehicle bookings are essential and can be arranged through Best of Magnetic. Walk-on passengers are also welcome, with parking available at the Townsville terminal on Ross Street, South Townsville.

GETTING TO YOUR ACCOMMODATION

The Best of Magnetic office is located just metres from the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal. After arriving, simply walk across the car park or park out front to check in, collect your keys and complete a quick registration. Guests arriving without a vehicle can enjoy a complimentary transfer to their Magnetic Island accommodation during office hours. If you’d prefer the flexibility of your own wheels, we offer excellent local Magnetic Island car hire options. Taxis (131924) and buses also depart from the ferry terminal, making onward travel simple.