In short
- Dogs are welcome on the island but must remain on a leash.
- Owners must clean up after their pets at all times.
- Ferry operators transport passengers and dogs from Rosslyn Bay Harbor.
In this article
Taking your dog to Great Keppel Island requires a little extra planning. Since there are no cars or paved roads, you will spend your time walking the beaches and trails. Knowing the local leash rules and ferry logistics ensures a smooth day trip.
Are dogs allowed on Great Keppel Island?
Yes, dogs are welcome on Great Keppel Island as long as they are kept on a leash.
You must clean up after your dog at all times. The island is part of a protected marine park zone. Keeping your dog leashed protects local wildlife like goannas and echidnas.
How do you take a dog on the ferry?
You can take your dog on the 30-minute ferry ride from Rosslyn Bay Harbor to the island.
Ferries operated by Keppel Konnections and Freedom Fast Cats run daily. They usually depart at 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM. Check directly with the operator regarding specific carrier or muzzle rules for the crossing.
| Transport | Departure | Travel Time | Adult Cost | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F | e | r | r | y | |||||||||||||
| R | o | s | s | l | y | n | B | a | y | H | a | r | b | o | r | ||
| 3 | 0 | m | i | n | u | t | e | s | |||||||||
| $ | 5 | 5 | - | $ | 6 | 0 | A | U | D | r | e | t | u | r | n |
What happens when you arrive with your dog?
There is no jetty on Great Keppel Island, so you will disembark directly onto the sand in shallow water.
You and your dog will get wet feet at Fisherman's Beach. Wear slip-on shoes or thongs. Keep a firm grip on the leash as you step off the boat into the water.
Where can you walk your dog on the island?
You can walk your leashed dog along the island's 17 white-sand beaches and bushland trails.
Fisherman's Beach is the main arrival area and offers plenty of space. For a longer walk, take the First Lookout Walk. This 30-to-45-minute hike offers a quick scenic overview of the island.
What should you pack for your dog?
Bring plenty of fresh water, waste bags, and a bowl for your dog.
- Reusable water bottle and travel bowl
- Waste bags for cleaning up
- Towels to dry off after the beach landing
- Snacks or dog food in a cooler bag
Can dogs swim at Great Keppel Island?
Dogs can enter the water, but they must remain under your control.
Remember that you must not touch or stand on the coral reefs. During summer months (November to May), marine stingers are present in the water. Monitor your dog closely near the shoreline.
Questions travellers ask
Are dogs allowed on Great Keppel Island?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Great Keppel Island. They must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners must clean up after them.
Is there a jetty for easy access with my dog?
No, there is no jetty on the island. Passengers step directly into shallow water and sand to disembark at Fisherman's Beach.
Where do the ferries depart from?
Ferries depart from Keppel Bay Marina or Pier One at Rosslyn Bay Harbour in Yeppoon.
