How to Get to Magnetic Island

Refine Search

You are here

Travel to Magnetic Island

To travel to Magnetic Island you must first travel to the mainland city of Townsville.
Known as the capital of North Queensland, Townsville is a vibrant tropical city of 180,000 residents and is located only 10 kilometres from Magnetic Island. The transport options to reach Townsville from anywhere in Australia are wide and varied. Whether you choose to drive, fly or arrive by train, there is sure to be an option to suit your needs. See more about your travel options to Magnetic Island below.

Jetstar flys to Townsville gateway to Magnetic Island

Flying to Townsville

Townsville Airport is well serviced by Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Airnorth. The airport is a short 10km drive to the Breakwater Ferry Terminal taking approximately 15 minutes. Taxis meet all flight arrivals and departures. A shuttle bus service meets most ferries and flights, and can transfer guests from the airport to city hotels and the Breakwater Ferry Terminal.
Several airlines fly to Townnsville. Find the best deals to Townsville on Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Qantas.

Driving to Townsville

Townsville is accessible via the Bruce Highway, approximately 1350 km north of Brisbane and approximately 350km south of Cairns. The ferry terminals are located near to the centre of the city and are easy to locate.

Travel to Townsville by Train on Spirit of Queensland

By Rail to Townsville

The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the charm of long-distance rail travel. Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation. Travelling between Brisbane and Townsville five times a week, the Spirit of Queensland redefines the modern rail travel experience with a comfortable and convenient way to access Magnetic Island via Townsville.
The train station is only a 4.5km drive away from the Breakwater Ferry Terminal.

Traveling to Magnetic Island from Townsville

Accessing Magnetic Island is effortless, affordable and convenient from the Australian mainland. There are two separate ferry companies that travel to Magnetic Island. Sealink Queensland operate a passenger ferry service and Magnetic Island Ferries operates a vehicle ferry service. These services depart from opposite sides of the river. Both services arrive on Magnetic Island at the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal where guests of Best of Magnetic will find our office for their check in.

Sealink Ferry to Magnetic Island

Sealink Passenger Ferry

Sealink operates up to 18 daily services to Magnetic Island and will have you in paradise in only 20 minutes. There is no need to prebook your ferry ticket as they are available at the Breakwater Ferry Terminal or onboard the ferry if the terminal is closed. There are a variety of ticket types available including adult, child, concession and family. Sealink Queensland departs from the Breakwater Ferry Terminal and is located on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Townsville.

Take you car to Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island Ferries - Car Ferry

Magnetic Island Ferries operate up to 8 barge departures from Townsville daily, delivering you and your vehicle to and from Magnetic Island in 40 minutes of comfort. Bookings for vehicles are essential and can be booked by Best of Magnetic upon request. Magnetic Island Ferries also allow walk on passengers to travel without a vehicle, with parking available in Townsville. Magnetic Island Ferries terminal is located on Ross St, South Townsville.

Getting to your Accommodation

The Best of Magnetic office is located metres from the Magnetic Island ferry terminal. Simply park in front or walk one minute across the car park after disembarking from your ferry. All guests are needed to check-in with our friendly office staff to collect the keys to their accommodation and complete a guest registration form. If your arriving on Magnetic island without a vehicle as a Best of Magnetic guest we can provide you a courtesy transfer to your accommodation anywhere on the island during office hours. If you would like the flexibility and convenience of having your own vehicle while on holiday we offer great rental car options with the best rates to help you make the most of your time on Magnetic Island. A taxi service (131924) and bus service depart from the ferry terminal.

Receive Exclusive Offers