Harbour Island Ferry

Gladstone Harbour Ferry

Curtis Ferry Services runs regular services taking supplies and passengers to the outer harbour islands.

Timetables

For ferry bookings Book Online or call 07 4972 6990.

Day or Overnight Trips

Enjoy a fantastic day out by planning to catch the ferry in the morning and return to the mainland in the afternoon. Alternatively, plan a nice quiet break by staying on one of the islands.

Visiting Curtis Island

Curtis Ferry Services lands at South End, a small village on the south-eastern tip of Curtis Island.

South End has a number of units and holiday homes available for rent. Capricorn Lodge (phone 07 4972 0222) has accommodation and a licensed bar as well as food, fuel, ice, and bait.

Beyond South End township, vehicle access on the island is by 4WD only.

Camping At South End 

The South End camping ground is situated approximately 1km from the boat ramp. A camping permit is required and should be obtained from the Gladstone Visitor Information Centre beforehand. (https://www.gladstoneregion.info/gladstone-visitor-information-centre)

  • 20 unpowered sites
  • Composting toilets provided
  • Wood and charcoal fires not permitted.
  • Gas or kerosene cookers permitted.
  • Low-noise generators permitted 7am-7pm
  • Dogs permitted on leash only
  • Maximum of 3 sites per booking with max. 6 people per site
  • Maximum stay of 14 nights

Camping In Curtis Island National Park

Curtis Island offers a combination of stunning scenery and nature-based experiences including unspoilt beaches, calm north-facing bays, wilderness, and wetlands.

There are several designated camping areas within the national park. You will require a permit from Queensland National Parks & Wildlife Service.

Visiting Facing Island

Curtis Ferry Services lands at Farmers Point, a small settlement on the north-western tip of Facing Island.

The island has long, pristine sandy beaches and is perfect for fishing, surfing, exploring the bushland and coastline, or simply relaxing.

Vehicle access on Facing Island is by 4WD only.

Camping

The camping area is approximately 2km from the ferry drop-off point and is suitable for self-sufficient campers.

  • 32 unpowered sites
  • Composting toilets provided
  • Wood and charcoal fires not permitted.
  • Gas or kerosene cookers permitted.
  • Low-noise generators permitted 7am-10pm
  • Dogs permitted but must be under control at all times

A camping permit is required and should be obtained from Gladstone Visitor Information Centre beforehand.

Activities

Wildlife Spotting

Turtle Beach (on Curtis Island) is the third largest breeding site flatback turtles in Queensland. The mother turtles come to nest from around late October to January with the hatchlings emerging and making their way to the ocean from approx. January to late March.

Nature is never quite exact, however if are lucky, you may get to witness this amazing spectacle first-hand.

IMPORTANT: If you do see a mother turtle on the beach, give her plenty of space and do not try to touch her. If she doesn’t feel safe, she may return to the ocean without nesting.

The islands are also rich with an abundance of bird life including rainbow lorikeets, sea eagles, jabirus, cockatoos, black swans, herons, brolgas, wood ducks, and the rare yellow chat.

Fishing

Facing Island is a renowned location for fishing enthusiasts. The reef off the southern end of the island is a hot spot for sweet lip, coral trout, honeycomb cod, tuna, and mackerel. Meanwhile the northern end offers excellent beach fishing for whiting, bream, dart, and flathead.

IMPORTANT: Please ensure you understand all zoning and fishing regulations.

Hiking

Curtis Island has a variety of trails from beginner to intermediate levels. You can choose short hikes from South End or, if you are fit enough, you can spend several days exploring the island on foot and taking in the stunning scenery and absorbing nature at its best.

Here are some important reminders for your safety and well-being:

  • Stay with your children at all times.
  • Stay on formed walking tracks and do not shortcut.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, not thongs.
  • Walk in groups.
  • Avoid walking during the hottest time day.
  • Carry sufficient drinking water.
  • Protect yourself from the sun.
  • Look for and observe all signs.

Four Wheel Driving

Both Curtis Island and Facing Island reward 4WD enthusiasts with stunning locations including beaches and cliff lookouts.

IMPORTANT: Remember that the tracks are still public roads and all vehicles must be registered and all drivers licensed.