What the crossing involves

Dirk Hartog Island, Western Australia's largest island, lies across South Passage from Steep Point, so the drive in is the Steep Point drive with its 30 km of soft sand. A landing barge takes one vehicle and trailer at a time from Shelter Bay and crosses in about 15 minutes. It runs in the morning only, subject to the weather, and the vehicle and trailer together can be no longer than 10.6 m. The island tracks are four-wheel drive only, and there are no supplies in the national park, so you bring all your water, fuel and food.

Protecting the island

The island has been cleared of feral cats, goats and sheep, and threatened native animals are being returned to it. Clean the underside and the inside of the camper before you leave and again before the barge, bring no firewood and pack food in sealed containers rather than cardboard. The animals use the tracks, so avoid driving from dusk to dawn, and keep below 40 km/h if you must.

What permitted means for your hire

Permitted means the conditions of hire allow the camper on Dirk Hartog Island, and the standard insurance applies while you are there. Fewer of our campers are permitted on the island than at Steep Point, so choose from the campers listed here. Permitted does not reserve a vehicle, a date, a barge crossing or a campsite; you book the campsite and the barge with the Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge.

Questions about Dirk Hartog Island

How do I book the barge to Dirk Hartog Island?

Through the Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge: book your campsite or room first, then the 4WD ferry transfer. Crossings have limited availability, so book well ahead, and arrive at the landing 30 minutes before departure.

Where can I camp on the island?

At nine national park campsites, booked through the Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge with a minimum stay of three nights. Camping fees apply at every site, and you bring your own water.

Is there an entry fee for Dirk Hartog Island?

No. Entry to Dirk Hartog Island National Park is free, but the park entry fee applies at Steep Point on the way through.