Discover the thrill of fast-paced water taxi rides from Buttertin Beach to nearby islands, offering stunning scenery and marine wildlife encounters. Perfect for quick escapes and scenic adventures.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
15-45 minutes per ride
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no special physical condition required
Wildlife
History
The region’s coastal waters have been traditionallly used by Indigenous communities for thousands of years, with many cultural sites accessible via boat.
Conservation
Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimizing fuel use and protecting marine habitats.
Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters
Discover the thrill of fast-paced water taxi rides from Buttertin Beach to nearby islands, offering stunning scenery and marine wildlife encounters. Perfect for quick escapes and scenic adventures.
Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters is a 100% Indigenous‑owned transport operator based on Keriri Island (Hammond Island) in Queensland’s Torres Strait. The company provides scheduled and charter water taxi and combined water‑taxi‑plus‑bus transfers that connect Horn Island, Thursday Island (Waiben), Goodes Island (Palilag), Prince of Wales Island (Muralag), and other local wharves and beach landings. Services include customised transfers, short cruise connections across Waibene Harbour to Ngurupay Jetty, airport link services between Horn Island Airport and island jetties, plus on‑demand water taxi pickups and drop‑offs for picnics and day trips.
All listings and pickup/drop‑off points are operated from Keriri Island and nearby regional wharves, with clearly named locations such as Keriri (Hammond Island) Wharf, Ngurupay (Horn Island) Wharf, Rosehill Wharf, Palilag (Goodes Island) Wharf, Buttertin and Muralag (Prince of Wales) Beach. The business combines passenger vessels and air‑conditioned bus transfers for airport routing, ensuring multi‑modal connections for travellers and locals.
Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters focuses on practical, local travel needs rather than sightseeing tours, offering reliable island transfers and charter options tailored to community schedules and visitor itineraries. As a local provider operating within Torres Strait waters, the company supports safe, direct connections across short island distances and emphasises punctual, community‑oriented service. For those seeking transport across the region, Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters provides essential island links, airport connections, and flexible charter transfers from Keriri Island and neighbouring islands. Bookings and service details are available locally through community contacts and official Torres Strait transport information channels for planning island travel safely.
Base Location
Keriri Island
Operating from Hammond Island wharf
Indigenous Owned
100% Indigenous‑owned
Locally owned and operated
Service Types
Water taxi + Bus
Island transfers and charters
Routes Offered
20 routes
Multiple island pickup and drop‑offs
Choose a 100% Indigenous‑owned operator offering water taxi, charter and combined bus transfers across Keriri Island and Torres Strait destinations.
Arrive early for peak views
Getting to the dock early ensures you catch the best light and avoid crowds.
Wear water-resistant clothing
Water taxis can be quick, so prepare for splashes and wind.
Bring snorkeling gear
Many islands offer great snorkeling spots with vibrant marine life.
Check the weather forecast
Weather can change quickly at sea, so plan trips on clear days for safety.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay protected during the ride.
summer
Waterproof bag
Keep valuables dry and safe during the boat trip.
all
Snorkel gear
Perfect for exploring near the islands if you wish to snorkel.
summer
Comfortable shoes
Easier to walk or stand on the boat or on the islands.
all