South Molle Island ferry from Airlie Beach: Camping transfers

There is no South Molle Island ferry from Airlie Beach. You can, however, book a camping transfer service from Shute Harbour.

To skip the explanation and book a South Molle Island camping transfer, head this way.

Where is South Molle Island?

South Molle Island is an island in the Whitsundays archipelago near Airlie Beach in Queensland, Australia. It was once home to a resort, but the South Molle Island Resort was destroyed by Cyclone Debbie in 2017.

Which Whitsundays cruise should I choose?

For those with limited time: Whitehaven Beach half day tour.
For the highlights reel: Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island day trip.
To see the reef two ways: High speed Whitsundays cruise plus scenic reef flight combo.
For romance, sparkling wine and sunset under sail: Multi-beach and reef Lady Enid cruise.
To see several islands: Sailing and snorkelling adventure.
For an overnight sailing adventure: Matador two day yacht cruise.

South Molle Island camping

However, South Molle Island still offers beautiful beaches and walking trails. These days, the only way to stay on the island is camping.

There are two campgrounds on South Molle Island – Sandy Bay in the south and Paddle Bay in the north.

Both of these campsites are extremely basic, for tents only. There are toilets and picnic tables, but no showers, barbecues or electricity supplies.

A maximum of 12 people can camp at Paddle Bay at any one time, while Sandy Bay has a 36 person capacity.

9 memory-making Airlie Beach experiences to add to your visit

Whitehaven Beach day cruise – with plenty of snorkelling thrown in.
Glass bottom boat tour – see coral and marine life without getting wet.
Heart Reef flight – see the islands and Great Barrier Reef from above before flying over Australia’s famous heart-shaped island.
Proserpine River crocodile safari – see the big crocs from a boat.
Whitsundays sunset cruise – with free snacks and sparkling wine.
Sailing on the Camira – glide around the Whitsunday Islands under sail.
Whizz around the islands on a guided jetski tour.
Waterfall explorer day tour – with swimming in Hinterland rock pools.
Enjoy high speed thrills on a jet boat ride.

South Molle Island camping permit fees

Bookings for camping at South Molle Island must be made in advance through Queensland National Parks. You must also buy a camping permit in advance.

At the time of writing camping permit fees for South Molle Island were $7 per person per night.

Get the best Whitsundays cruise deals

Is there a South Molle Island ferry from Airlie Beach?

There is no dedicated South Molle Island ferry from Airlie Beach. Or, indeed, elsewhere. You can, however pay for a private camping transfer service which essentially acts as a South Molle Island ferry.

The Scamper transfer costs $75 and leaves from the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal – NOT the Port of Airlie where most Whitsundays cruises depart from.

The boat is designed to carry kayaks, so you can bring your kayak with you. Bookings for this South Molle Island transfer service should be made online. You are unlikely to encounter crocodiles on South Molle Island.

All prices are correct at the time of writing, but are subject to change in the future.

Other things to do in Airlie Beach include sunset cruises, glass bottom boat tours, kayaking adventures and walking the Airlie Creek Track.