Anchoring Your Boat

Take a place along Wadjemup / Rottnest Island and feel part of the island’s story for a moment in time.

The more sought-out anchorage spots to look for include Thomson Bay (south of the former Army Jetty), Longreach Bay, and Parker Point.

Guidelines

Once the single visit admission fee is paid, or you have an active annual admission, you’ll be able to anchor anywhere within the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve.

Wadjemup / Rottnest Island boat anchoring is simple. Before dropping your anchor, check to make sure your vessel is:

 • at least 50 metres from any mooring, jetty, or beach pen
 • not obstructing or interfering with access to a mooring
 • clear of reef, seagrass meadows, navigation markers
 • outside of any prohibited boating areas

Please note that vessels cannot be left unattended in the reserve without a competent operator being within the limits of the island. Do not leave the vessel unattended for a period longer than 24 hours.

Beach anchoring

Aside from certain boating prohibited areas, beach anchoring is allowed.
Protecting the island and its ecosystem is our ongoing mission, which is why the allowed beach anchoring area in Longreach Bay is limited to minimise the impact on the marine environment and beachgoers.

 

Longreach Bay Anchoring Map

Take a look at the Longreach Bay beach anchor points (PDF 303KB) available.

Skippers need to keep in mind:

• Bow and stern anchors are preferred.
• Star pickets and items not designed primarily for beach anchoring are prohibited.
• Beach anchoring is not recommended for craft over eight metres long.
• Take care to bury your anchor deep into the sand, as they can be a hazard to other beachgoers.
• Anchoring parallel to the beach is not allowed as it limits the space for other users to anchor
• Temporary moorings are not permitted — all anchoring equipment must be removed each time the vessel leaves the anchorage

Anchor point locations

There are 37 beach anchor points available; 27 are in and around Thomson Bay, five are at the eastern end of Geordie Bay, and five at the eastern end of Longreach Bay.

There are two secure stern anchor points provided on the shore for you to make use of, however boat owners will need their own ropes to secure their vessel to these beach anchor points.

Protecting the island and its ecosystem is our ongoing mission, which is why the allowed beach anchoring area in Longreach Bay is limited to minimise the impact on the marine environment and beachgoers.