SeaLink’s Acting Chief Operating Officer Phil Boyle welcomed Ruwi's departure and acknowledged the significant effort involved in getting her underway.
"Seeing Ruwi depart Indonesia and begin her journey to South Australia is a significant moment for everyone involved in delivering the new Kangaroo Island ferry service.
"Securing the vessel and arranging her departure and delivery has taken a mammoth effort from our team, and we're delighted to see her finally on her way to Adelaide and another step closer to commencing service for the community of Kangaroo Island.
"We know the Kangaroo Island community has been eagerly awaiting both new ferries, and we do sincerely appreciate their patience as we have worked around the clock to bring Ruwi into service alongside her twin sister Wanggami as quickly as possible," Mr Boyle said.
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.
Mr Boyle said the identical, purpose-built ferries are 10 metres longer and two metres wider than the existing vessels, offering around 65% more vehicle lane length capacity per sailing, nearly doubling the number of departures a day.
“The drive on and off in the same direction will make boarding and disembarking quicker, safer and easier. Gone are the days of reversing vehicles onto the ferry and passengers will be able to board and disembark in their vehicles,” he said.
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.
Mr Boyle acknowledged the considerable teamwork and collaboration involved in bringing the new ferry service to life.
"Delivering a project of this scale has not been without its challenges, but the commitment, determination and collaboration of our teams and partners have been instrumental in moving us forward.
"With the new infrastructure in place, Wanggami preparing to enter service next week, and Ruwi now on her way to South Australia, it's rewarding to see the combined efforts of so many people finally coming together.
"Ultimately, this is about much more than just two new ferries. It's about enhancing the vital connection between Kangaroo Island and the mainland, making travel easier for residents and visitors, and creating greater opportunities for people to experience all that the Island has to offer. We're looking forward to delivering a new ferry service that will play an important role in the Island's future for generations to come," Mr Boyle said.
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, visit www.SeaLink.com.au.
