How to Get to and Around the Southern Moreton Bay Islands: Ferries, Barges & Local Travel Tips

How to Get to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands

Travel Times to Each Island

The islands are a short journey from the Redlands Coast, providing a great opportunity to experience a unique island lifestyle so close to Brisbane. With a little bit of planning, you can be there in no time!

the ferry to Russell Island takes about 25–30 minutes depending on weather and stopping patterns.
Macleay Island ferry typically takes around 18–20 minutes, offering a quick connection for visitors
Lamb Island is only about 15 minutes from Redland Bay Marina, making it one of the quicker ferry trips.
Karragarra Island is the shortest ferry journey, roughly 12 minutes from departure.

NB – it’s always best to plan your ferry journey, as times can vary based on the direction and scheduled stops of the SeaLink passenger ferry.

Ferry and Barge Departure Points

All island services depart from the Redland Bay Marina at Weinam Creek, which is the main transport hub for SMBI.

Parking can be at a premium within this area – read the Council parking signs carefully.
Passenger ferries and vehicle barges depart from separate areas within the Redland Bay Marina precinct.
Clear signposting at the ferry terminal makes it easy for first-time travellers to find the right departure lane.

How to pay for Ferries and Vehicle Barges

There’s a few ways to pay your fare, with contactless payments being the most popular.

Passenger ferries accept Go Card/contactless debit or credit card, ensuring simple and budget-friendly travel.
If you have a concession or student Go Card, you must use the Go Card system to be charged the correct fare.
Redland Bay Vehicle barge pricing varies depending on vehicle type, size, and travel time.
Vehicle barge fares can be paid online at the time of booking, making planning straightforward.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Trip

Be aware of the choices you can make for your Southern Moreton Bay Islands trip. A day out or something more permanent – options are available.

Catching a fast passenger ferry to Russell Island and Macleay Island is the best choice for quick trips, sightseeing, or day visits.
Vehicle barges are ideal for transporting cars, trailers, tools, or furniture.
Travellers should book barges early during peak periods due to increased demand

Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry Guide: What to Expect

Travelling with Kids on the Ferries

Local ferry company SeaLink welcomes kids on board, and most kids enjoy the chance of a fast, fun, ferry ride!

Ferries are pram-friendly with easy boarding ramps and indoor cabin seating.
Journey times are short, making them manageable for young children.
Indoor areas provide shelter from wind and weather.

Island-to-Island Ferry Transfers

Many locals and visitors transfer between islands, seeing friends or checking out what other islands have to offer.

Transfers between the islands are available throughout the day.
Inter-island services allow visitors to explore more than one location easily.
Most transfers are quick with minimal wait times.

Accessibility Support & Mobility Considerations on ferries and barges

Various levels of convenience are available for travellers with mobility issues.

Ferries offer wheelchair-accessible boarding with safe ramp access.
Staff can provide additional support for mobility needs when required, just let the staff know you need help.
Walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility devices are accommodated on most services.

Travelling with Pets on the Ferries

Don’t you just love giving your furry friend a day out? Yes, your pets are popular and they are allowed on the ferry but it’s up to you to always be responsible for your pet.

Dogs are allowed onboard but must remain muzzled and on a lead.
Animals other than dogs must be restrained in a suitable box, basket or other container at all times while on board the ferry.
Travelling during quieter periods is recommended for nervous pets.
Owners should keep pets close during boarding and disembarking, especially during peak hours
Refer to Sealink’s website for full Terms and Conditions

Bikes, E-Bikes & Prams: What’s Allowed

Good news is that e-bikes can be taken on board the ferry, but you need to know the rules of carriage if taking your bike or e-bike to the islands.

Bikes and e-bikes are permitted on passenger ferries, under certain terms and conditions.
Prams can be taken onboard without restrictions.
Board early to secure safe and convenient placement for larger items.

Ferry Timetables & Frequency

The Southern Moreton Bay Islands are well serviced by the SeaLink timetables, which are very extensive throughout the day. You can also access the Translink Journey Planner which makes it easy to plan your trip.

Services typically run every 30–60 minutes across the day.
Peak-hour services offer additional frequency for commuters.
Public Holiday typically run on a Sunday Timetable, even Christmas day

Redland Bay Vehicle Barge to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands

Taking Your Car to the Islands

Barges to SMBI are a popular service with locals and visitors alike. Better to be smart, plan ahead and avoid disappointment or frustration.

Vehicle barges use a drive-on, drive-off system for easy loading.
Ideal for visitors bringing tools, supplies, or planning extended stays.
Suitable for tradespeople, transporting equipment between islands.
Trailers and removalist vehicles are accepted on most services ideal for house moves or renovations

Vehicle Barge Requirements: What You Need to Know

Redland Bay ferry terminal facilitates vehicle services to Russell, Lamb, Macleay and Karragarra Islands and is located on Weinam Street. At the departure terminal there is a reservations office where the friendly SeaLink staff can answer any questions that you may have.

Booking confirmations must be presented during check-in.
Crew members direct vehicles into assigned parking lanes.
Travel duration ranges from 40–60 minutes depending on conditions.
SeaLink provides lots of useful barge planning information

Booking & Costs for Vehicle Barges

It’s not a one price fits all situation for the vehicle barge. Know your vehicle dimensions to gain the correct pricing. SeaLink offers great vehicle barge information and current pricing.

Booking ahead is essential, especially during weekends and peak periods.
Vehicle pricing varies depending on the size and type of vehicle.
Passengers should arrive 20–30 minutes before departure for check-in.

Redland Bay Ferry Terminal: Parking & Local Access

Parking at Redland Bay (Weinam Creek)

Traffic in this area is constantly busy, putting pressure on the parking facilities provided. Patience is a must as locals and visitors compete for available and legal parking.

Free street parking is available within walking distance of the terminal. There is a footbridge, with connected pathways between the Moores Road car park and the Redland Bay Ferry terminal, taking several minutes to walk.
Ideal for overnight or multi-day visits to the islands.
Make sure to check the signage carefully in all areas, to avoid any parking fines.
Plans are underway for a future multi-storey parking facility offering secure paid options for long-term stays.

Terminal Access & Pick-Up/Drop-Off Zones

The Redland Bay Ferry Terminal has been planned to allow a good flow of traffic, but it can get busy and congested or confusing for newcomers. Here are some handy tips.

Designated drop-off bays allow quick passenger loading and unloading.
Disability-friendly access paths lead directly to the terminal entrance.
Clear directional signs offer great assistance for new travellers navigating the precinct.

Redland Bay Ferry Tips for New Travellers

Best Times to Travel on the Island Ferries

Like most public transport, ferries can be in big demand, especially with fares now reduced. Peak times obviously attract bigger numbers of commuters and students travelling. Other times of the day can make your ferry trip a lot more relaxing.

Mid-morning and mid-afternoon services are typically quieter.
Commuter peaks can lead to busier ferries and longer boarding times.
School holiday periods see increased family travel.

Safety Tips for Ferry Travel

Here is the safety heads up! We want everyone to arrive safely on the islands and enjoy there stay or visit.

Use handrails during boarding and disembarking, especially in windy weather.
Secure any bikes, prams, or loose items before the ferry departs.
Be mindful of changing sea conditions during storms or strong winds.

Top Tips for First-Time Ferry or Barge Travellers

If you are new to using the Redland Bay Ferry or barge, don’t put yourself under pressure by arriving last minute. That never ends well!

Arrive at least 10–15 minutes early to avoid missing your ferry.
Check before leaving that you have the right payment option available.
Have your Go Card/debit or credit card ready for quick boarding.
You can recharge your Go Card at Redland Bay Marina
If travelling with pets or bulky items, board early to secure space.
Use online travel planner tools

Wrapping Up Our Guide To Southern Moreton Bay Island Ferries and Barges

Getting to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands is easier than most people expect

Once you’re there, getting around is just as simple. With regular ferries, the option to take your car over, and plenty of ways to move around each island, it’s the kind of trip that suits anyone — from day-trippers to new locals finding their feet.

If you ever find yourself wanting to learn more about island living, and the different options each island has to offer, our team at Redlands Coast Realty has plenty of helpful information and local property options you can browse through in your own time.

Thinking about a lifestyle change at Russell Island or interested in buying an investment property on the island?

Have a chat with Russell Island Real Estate, who are local specialists when it comes to everything you need to know about the island.