The plane ride starts on the ferry. This Perth to Rottnest package pairs an island getaway with a tandem skydive, so you get both the views and the adrenaline. I like the small group (up to 6 people) and the freedom to pick a skydive from 10,000 or 15,000 feet, which changes how long you’ll fall and how much you’ll see.

One thing to plan for: it’s weather-dependent, and that can mean waiting around for your turn if conditions aren’t perfect. Also, keep your times straight, because your booking time is for skydive check-in, not your ferry departure.

Key things to know before you go

• Two altitude options: choose 10,000 feet or 15,000 feet for different free-fall times
• Small-group feel: limited to 6 participants, which usually means more personal attention
• Clear pre-briefing process: you’ll get safety steps and procedures before you’re on the plane
• Tandem instructor control: you’ll get harnessed up, briefed, and guided start to finish
• You still get Rottnest time: after your jump, you can explore before the return ferry
• Ferry-first day flow: the package is built around Perth–Rottnest same-day travel

Tandem skydiving over Rottnest Island, with a ferry day built in

This experience is simple in concept: you go from Perth to Rottnest Island by ferry, then do a tandem skydiving jump right there on the island. It’s a great setup because Rottnest isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of the thrill. From above, you’ll look down on the coastline and the island’s shape, and that “first time in the air” feeling is the whole point.

What makes it feel especially worth it is how much you’re getting in one package. You’re not just paying for the jump—you’re also paying for the same-day ferry return and the Rottnest Island admission fee, so your travel day is handled up front.

Where to start in Perth: Barrack Street Jetty basics

You meet at the Perth Barrack Street Jetty, near the Elizabeth Quay Train Station. The ferry plan matters here, because your day is split into two time systems: ferry time and skydiving check-in time.

I recommend treating the ferry departure like your anchor time. Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes early for ticketing and boarding, then follow the instructions on your ferry ticket exactly. Your ticket will also list the ferry operator, and you’ll want to confirm you’re going with the right one.

Your ferry ride to Rottnest: why the timing system matters

When you book, your “booking time” is the skydive check-in time, not the ferry departure time. That confusion is one of the easiest ways to make your day stressful, so slow down and read the exact times once you get your tickets.

After booking, you’ll receive ferry tickets within 48 hours. Don’t toss that email into the void. Check it for:

• ferry departure time
• departure location/port
• ferry operator name

Then, once you know the ferry schedule, you can plan when you’ll need to walk over to check in for your jump on Rottnest.

From the jetty to Rottnest Airfield: the walk you should expect

Once you arrive on Rottnest, you’ll make your own way to the skydiving check-in at Rottnest Airfield. The Rottnest Island Terminal Building—where your welcome and start-of-day steps happen—is about a 15-minute walk from the ferry jetty.

This is practical advice, not just trivia: don’t show up dressed in a way that’s miserable for walking. Bring comfortable clothes, wear closed-toe shoes, and avoid sandals or flip-flops. It sounds small, but your day runs smoother when you’re already halfway ready for harnessing and paperwork.

Inside the terminal: welcome, paperwork, harnessing, and safety briefing

Your skydive experience begins with a warm welcome at the Rottnest Island Terminal Building at Rottnest Airfield. After you complete paperwork, you’ll get harnessed up and receive a safety briefing.

If you like clarity, this part is a big plus. One of the strongest themes from the experience is how thoroughly people are coached ahead of time—steps delivered in plain language via messages, and even video-style explanations in advance. On the day, your instructor will continue with the briefing so you know exactly what to do when you’re at height and the plan is moving fast.

English instruction is provided, and the group is kept small. That matters because a first-timer benefits from being able to ask questions and hear instructions without a crowd.

The jump itself: altitude choice, free-fall timing, and speed

You’ll head to the plane after harnessing and briefing. From there, you’ll see the scenery as the aircraft climbs to your chosen altitude: 10,000 feet or 15,000 feet.

Then comes the main event:

• Free-fall is about 200 kilometers an hour
• Free-fall time is 30 to 66 seconds, depending on your altitude choice
• Your parachute is deployed at 5,000 feet
• You’ll get about a 5-minute parachute ride before landing

That structure is important. People often focus only on the free-fall seconds, but the calmer parachute ride is where you really get to look around, breathe, and process what you just did. The landing is on the beach area alongside family and friends, which can make the moment feel more complete when you can see people on the ground.

10,000 vs 15,000 feet: choosing your thrill level

The difference between the two altitudes is basically time and perspective. Going higher means more free-fall seconds—up to 66 seconds instead of about 30 seconds. If you’re the type who wants a longer “main act” and more time in the air, 15,000 feet is the obvious pick.

If you want something still intense but slightly shorter, 10,000 feet keeps the experience punchy. Either way, you get tandem support, parachute deployment at the same 5,000-foot point, and the same overall progression.

After the skydive: exploring Rottnest Island before the ferry back

Once you’re done, you’re not just dropped back in the dark. You’ll have time on Rottnest after your jump until your ferry departure. That makes this package feel more like a full day outing rather than a quick adrenaline appointment.

If you want the lasting souvenir, you can purchase a professionally-edited high-definition video and photo package on the day. It’s available, but it’s not included—so decide based on whether you think you’ll want a polished record of the moment.

Then enjoy the island time. Just keep your eyes on your ferry ticket departure time, and build in buffer so you’re not rushing while trying to appreciate the place.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for at around $365

At $365 per person, you’re paying for three major components:

• a tandem skydive with your altitude choice
• same-day return ferry transport from Perth (Barrack Street Jetty)
• Rottnest Island admission

The value here is convenience and time. If you tried to mix and match ferry tickets, admission, and a skydiving booking separately, you’d likely spend extra energy coordinating and you might lose the smooth “one package, one plan” feel.

The price also makes sense for a tandem jump experience, where an instructor, safety process, and aircraft scheduling are part of the deal. Add in the small group size, and you can see why people describe the team as attentive and reassuring.

The only real value “watch-out” is that photos and video cost extra, and those can add up quickly if you buy everything. If budget matters, you can always treat the on-day package as a decision you make after you see what’s offered.

Weather checks and the phone call requirement

Skydiving doesn’t operate like a museum ticket with fixed access. The whole schedule is weather dependent, and conditions can affect operating hours and your timing slot.

You’re also required to phone 1 hour prior to your ferry departure time to confirm weather suitability. Don’t assume everything will run exactly as planned just because you have tickets. If you skip that confirmation, you risk traveling on a ferry that’s not operating as expected for the day’s plan.

This is one of those annoying-but-important rules. It keeps the operation safe and running the way it should.

Health, age, and weight rules: know where you stand

This activity has clear safety screening. Your eligibility is assessed on the day by a chief safety instructor, based on factors like weight, height, and relevant medical conditions. That’s why you should treat your booking as a “subject to approval” moment.

Key limits and non-suitability notes include:

• Children under 16 aren’t suitable
• 16–17 year olds must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian
• Pregnant women are not suitable
• People with heart problems or relevant medical conditions are not suitable
• Weight: the information sets 95 kg (209 lbs) as a cutoff, with over 95 kg handled case-by-case

If you fall into a grey area—especially around weight or a health concern—don’t wait until the day of. You’ll want to be prepared for the possibility of an assessment outcome based on the instructor’s safety review.

Practical tips to make your day easier

A skydiving day runs on details. Here’s how to make it feel smooth instead of chaotic:

• Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Avoid sandals entirely.
• Keep your phone accessible for weather confirmation calls.
• Double-check your documents so you understand the difference between skydive check-in time and ferry departure time.
• When you get to Rottnest, plan the 15-minute walk without stopping for photos on the way—save the sightseeing for after your jump.

Also, with a small group (limited to 6), your place in the schedule can matter. If there’s waiting, it’s often about safety checks and aircraft timing, not about organization being sloppy.

Should you book the Perth: Rottnest Island Skydive and Ferry Package?

Book this if you want a first-rate tandem skydive in a place that feels like more than just a landing zone. The combination of a small group, clear safety briefing, and the full day structure (ferry in, jump, Rottnest time, ferry back) is what makes this package land well for most people.

Skip it or reconsider if:

• you know you’ll struggle with weather changes and waiting times
• you don’t want the extra decision of buying photos/video on the day
• you’re outside the safety suitability boundaries (age, medical conditions, or weight limits)

If you’re within the eligibility guidelines and you’re okay with one required phone call for weather, this is a straightforward way to tick a big bucket-list item without having to coordinate everything yourself.

FAQ

Is the booking time the same as the ferry departure time?

No. Your booking time is the skydive check-in time, not the ferry departure time. Check your ferry ticket for the exact departure time, port, and ferry operator.

Where do I meet for the ferry in Perth?

You meet at Perth Barrack Street Jetty, near the Elizabeth Quay Train Station. Arrive about 30 minutes before the ferry departure time to allow for ticketing and boarding.

How do I get to the skydiving check-in once I arrive on Rottnest?

After you arrive on Rottnest by ferry, you make your own way to Rottnest Airfield for check-in at your chosen time slot. The Rottnest Island Terminal Building (where the welcome and start steps happen) is about a 15-minute walk from the ferry jetty.

What’s included in the package?

The package includes your 10,000- or 15,000-foot tandem skydive, same-day return ferry tickets from Perth Barrack Street Jetty, and the Rottnest Island admission fee.

Are photos and video included?

No. The video and photo package is available to purchase on the day, after your skydive. It’s professionally edited and HD.

Do I need to confirm the weather before traveling?

Yes. You must phone 1 hour prior to your ferry departure time to confirm the weather is suitable. Do not travel on your ferry tickets without confirming the operation with the team.

You Might Also Enjoy

Skydive AucklandLondon: iFLY Indoor Skydiving at The O2 Entrance TicketQueenstown: Ticket for 2 Indoor Skydiving FlightsSkydive Algarve: Tandem Skydiving 10.000ft (up to 15.000ft)