Kangaroo Island

Thanks for the info Bob, looked at thread 105358, great help, we are now looking at day trips to see the difference, I am new to this site, so whatever tips I can get will be a big help. Bob K

I wonder why this is?
And if it is so expensive (for the service they provide), why someone else doesn't come in with an alternative and undercut them?

$600 return for me, 3 kids, and a camper early January. $30 a night accomodation for us all.

"why someone else doesn't come in with an alternative and undercut them?"

Several have & their businesses have failed. There is another one in the pipeline ATM.

Exactly!

Backstairs Passage is a very tricky bit of water, with a strong currents and often strong winds (sea breezes) over tide, resulting in short, sharp and uncomfortable seas. Unlike the Sorento / Queenscliff ferry which sails in protected waters and to which it is often compared, passages can sometimes take considerably longer than the scheduled time. Vehicles often have to be secured to the deck rather than just drive on / off with no delay. At times the service has to be delayed or cancelled because of bad weather. The vessels have to be built to withstand the tough conditions and operated accordingly. Of course, on many occasions, the water is smooth and people have an enjoyable (and sea sick free) passage!
All this costs money that has to be recouped through the fare structure.

As you state KevinE, there have been many attempts to establish a viable competitive service and they have failed - at least so far.

I tend to look at the cost of the ferry this way. I can take the ferry to KI and return at a cost of $600 or so - or I can drive 300kms to another destination and back again. The cost of travel is approx. the same.

Cheers
Andrew

PS No affiliation with the ferry operator nor tourism on KI.

I see that you & I are on the same page Andrew! :)

We've been several times & love it over there! I personally don't think it's all that expensive.

As long as the state & federal governments fail to support the crossing as they should, it will remain a privately operated business & businesses exist to make a profit.

Supply & demand dictate price; there's only one ferry service operating & they are not short of customers! Especially cashed up tourists from overseas.

Cheers,

Kevin.

2nd that...depending on how long your stay is.
Good time of the year weather wise tho'

For national parks in SA follow this link. http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/home
Not all parks are open to camping, but some within coo-ee of Adelaide are. Fees apply. All the info you need is in the web site.
If you wanted power sites then Belair caravan park (in the Belair National Park) is not too dear and is OK to stay at. Also powered sites at Brownhill Creek caravan park at BH Creek National Park, but I have never stayed there so can not comment on it. Good luck with your trip.

Thanks everyone for the info, I can see now a stay of 2 weeks on the island is the way to go. I have sent away for a couple of books from Adelaide Tourist Info, and will check out Council Stays, lots of homework to do.Bob k

Hi Bob

One such council run park that is just fantastic is at American River. It is right on the water and agreat place to take it easy.


Cheers


Stephen

I know this may be a silly question, but what does RAA stand for!Bob K

RAA is the South Australian motoring association. Equivalent of NRMA. RACQ. etc

Members gave great advice when I went a couple of months ago. Left van for $5 a day at Cape Jervis & took Prado for 11 days. Did just under 1,000kms & still didn't see everything.
Asking for Seniors discount on the ferry & booking return with 2 nights in their accommodation seems to be cheapest way to go. On arrival buy a Parks Pass & stay in some of their accommodation options as well. Western KI Caravan Park has cottages so base yourself there for a few days & then again near Kingscote.
Don't miss Wills Rare Breeds Farm for a fascinating look at the fast disappearing old breeds of farm animals.
Cheers Heather

The farmers market deal is for one day only, and you will not see much without a vehicle.

Heather, re the Parks Pass, What does it cost, we are looking at staying on KI for say 10 days and what are the benefits, I do not want to pay for a 3 monthly or yearly pass.

Thanks

Peter

Hello Peter

Info on KI passes here

Pass lasts for one year ...You are paying for the first visit...the rest are free :)

Cheers
Greg