01 · Passenger ferry
SeaLink from Townsville
Approximately 20 minutesFrequent passenger services run between the Townsville terminal and Nelly Bay. Ideal if you plan to use island transport or hire locally.
Check SeaLink timetablePlan your stay
From Townsville to island time.
Magnetic Island sits eight kilometres offshore. Passenger and vehicle ferries arrive in Nelly Bay, making your Dacha a convenient starting point.
Getting here
Two ferry options. One easy arrival.
Choose based on whether your group is travelling on foot or bringing a vehicle. Schedules and fares change, so confirm directly before departure.
02 · Vehicle barge
Magnetic Island Ferries
Approximately 40 minutesBring your own car, motorbike, caravan or suitable larger vehicle from South Townsville. Advance bookings are recommended.
Check vehicle ferry optionsOn the island
Move around Maggie your way.
The island’s main villages are connected by road and bus, while walking tracks link many natural highlights.
Island bus
Services connect Nelly Bay with Picnic Bay, Arcadia, The Forts and Horseshoe Bay, and often align with ferry arrivals.
Hire or bring a vehicle
A useful option for large groups, beach gear and flexible days. Cars, scooters and other options can be hired locally.
Walk, ride or roll
Explore 25 kilometres of trails, or look into e-bike and road-registered electric-bike options for selected routes.
Before you travel
A smoother group arrival starts here.
Share the practical details early so the holiday begins before the bags hit the floor.
- Confirm your Airbnb check-in and bedroom arrangements
- Book ferry or barge tickets for the full group
- Decide how you will get from Nelly Bay terminal
- Check current weather, marine and swimming advice
- Plan first-night groceries and late-arrival food
Good to know
Planning questions, answered.
Do we need to bring a car to Magnetic Island?
Not necessarily. Nelly Bay is the island’s main arrival hub and local buses meet many ferry services. A car can be useful for larger groups or flexible exploring, but bus, taxi, hire vehicle, e-bike and walking options are available.
How long does the ferry take?
The SeaLink passenger ferry takes about 20 minutes from Townsville. The Magnetic Island Ferries vehicle barge takes roughly 40 minutes. Always check current timetables before travel.
Where do the ferries arrive?
Passenger and vehicle services arrive at the Nelly Bay terminal, placing you in the same island village as the Dacha collection.
Should we book the vehicle barge ahead?
Yes. If you plan to bring a vehicle, booking ahead is sensible—especially for weekends, school holidays and peak periods. Confirm vehicle dimensions and travel times directly with Magnetic Island Ferries.
Where can we buy groceries?
Nelly Bay has one of the island’s larger supermarkets, with additional stores in Arcadia and Horseshoe Bay. For a large group, plan a shared shopping list and check trading hours before arrival.
How do we confirm check-in details?
Your Airbnb reservation is the source of truth for check-in time, access instructions, address details and host communication. Use the Airbnb message thread for booking-specific questions.