We’re thrilled to announce that Ruwi, the second of our two new vessels, has departed the shipyard in Batam, Indonesia and is now making her way to South Australia.
Ruwi's departure marks another significant milestone in the transition to the new and improved ferry service following successful completion of the ramp installation this week and commencement of the in-harbour testing of Wanggami before she commences service on Tuesday 27 October 2026.
SeaLink's team has been on the ground in Batam working directly with the shipyard to expedite and prepare Ruwi for her journey to South Australia.
Ruwi departed Batam at approx. 8.15am (11.45am ACDT) on 24th October 2026, embarking on a 4,200-nautical-mile voyage travelling down Australia's west coast and across the Great Australian Bight before arriving in Port Adelaide.
Her journey is expected to take around 2 weeks to complete, subject to weather and operational conditions.
New ferry infrastructure completed
The ramp infrastructure works at Cape Jervis and Penneshaw were completed on 22nd October following the planned three-day ferry service shutdown, which included the installation of new vehicle ramps and the supporting infrastructure to accommodate the two larger ferries.
Ferry services resumed as planned on Friday, 23 October 2026, with SeaLion 2000 currently operating on a limited timetable while the first new vessel, Wanggami, completes her final in-harbour testing and crew preparations before commencing service.
Wanggami will commence service on Tuesday 27 October 2026 alongside SeaLion 2000 on the current standard ferry timetable. The new expanded ferry timetable will commence when Ruwi has arrived and starts service with Wanggami.
Further improvements to the terminal precincts, including pavements, kerbing, road barriers, fencing and gates, will continue over the coming weeks without disrupting ferry services.
When Ruwi arrives into Port Adelaide she will undergo final preparations before she enters service, expected by the end of November. This will also see the commencement of the expanded ferry timetable. SeaLink will confirm a start date for Ruwi after she arrives.
The new expanded ferry experience
When Wanggami and Ruwi commence operations together, they will offer Kangaroo Island residents and visitors a more spacious, comfortable and convenient journey between the Island and the mainland.
The drive on and off in the same direction will make boarding and disembarking quicker, safer and easier.
Passengers will also enjoy spacious lounges with comfortable booth-style seating, panoramic windows, a larger café and outdoor sundeck seating. Both vessels feature a lift connecting the vehicle deck, passenger lounge and sundeck, accessible toilets on every level and a dedicated air-conditioned pet lounge.
During the transition period while SeaLion 2000 is operating on the new infrastructure designed for the larger ferries, there are temporary loading changes for passengers. Passengers with mobility or accessibility requirements are encouraged to book Wanggami. Passengers should contact SeaLink's Customer Service team before booking for further information and assistance.
Full accessibility and travel information is available on the SeaLink website.
The Cape Jervis public boat ramp which was to be closed until 30 October for the service shutdown works has also reopened early. Local fishers can now recommence use of the boat ramp.
SeaLink will provide further updates on Ruwi's anticipated arrival and commencement of service as details are confirmed.
For more information on the full media release visit here.
If you have any questions, please email us on [email protected].
