We had a minor issue this morning and that was one other travellers must have encountered! If you book something whilst you are travelling and you need a copy of the confirmation, how do you print it? On one hand, we'd booked tickets on the boat service but knew we could pick up the tickets at the Harbour 30 minutes before departure, easy! On the other hand, we had also booked a parking space at the harbour with Wilsons, who appear to be like NCP in UK. Their confirmation email needed to be printed and left visible in the car window. This hotel does not have a manned reception so there was no help there. Luckily, the cafe next to the hotel was open, and the guy there kindly printed it off after I emailed it to him!
Our ferry left Shed B on Victoria Quay at 0925 and was very full. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes. Once at the island, visitors have to option to walk, cycle or take a hop-on hop-off circular bus service. Most people cycle. It's also possible to stay on the island, but being Labour Day Weekend, prices were too much for us when were originally booking. We took the bus service.
Quokkas are everywhere. Almost anywhere you stop, they will appear on the hope they will get some food. That is forbidden of course, but it doesn't stop them trying. We travelled all over the island and in addition to Quokkas, saw a pair of Ospreys on their nest, enjoyed watching New Zealand Fur Seals 'fin-sailing' in the sea, King Skinks and Honeyeaters!
Originally, we were going to take our snorkelling kit, but decided we wanted to see wildlife. It was a case of one thing or the other really, but the snorkelling looked fabulous! The island was an important part of Australian Defence against Japanese incursions to the important port of Freemantle, during WW2. The remains of forts, searchlights, a light railway system and gun batteries are still to be seen.
We effectively circumnavigated the island by bus. We walked some parts and ride other bits. Most of the coast is achingly beautiful with spotless sandy coves and rocky headlands. We also walked up to Wadjemup lighthouse, the highest point of the island, before returning to Thomson Bay, the only town and ferry terminal.
We arrived back in Fremantle just after 5 and decided to explore the old part of the town. Most of it was built at the turn of the 20th century and is in good shape. The northern part of South Terrace is alive with bars and restaurants but we ended up heading to the Port area where seafood is really the only choice! We ate at Kaili's and enjoyed BBQ'd baby Squid and scallops. I can see us returning tomorrow to explore the 'Little Creatures' brewery!
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