SeaLink celebrates official christening of Wanggami, marking major milestone for the new Kangaroo Island ferry service

Today, 30 July 2026, SeaLink South Australia christened Wanggami, the first of two new ferries for Kangaroo Island as part of its $57 million investment in the future of the new Kangaroo Island ferry service.

For 37 years, SeaLink has provided a safe and reliable connection between Kangaroo Island and mainland South Australia. The two new ferries, Wanggami and Ruwi build on that long legacy, introducing a state-of-the-art ferry service designed to meet the future needs of residents, businesses, freight operators and visitors.

Over 100 guests attended the ceremony in Port Adelaide, including representatives from the South Australian Government, the South Australian Tourism Commission, together with Kangaroo Island community leaders, tourism partners, stakeholders and media, reflecting the significance of the investment for Kangaroo Island, regional South Australia and the state's visitor economy.

The ceremony commenced with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by respected Elders Susan Dixon (Kaurna Country) and Mark Koolmatrie (Ngarrindjeri Country), acknowledging the enduring connection of First Nations peoples to Country.

The vessels' names, Wanggami (Kangaroo) and Ruwi (Land), recognise the cultural heritage of Cape Jervis and Kangaroo Island. Used with the permission of the Ngarrindjeri people, the names acknowledge their enduring connection to the region through language.

Guests heard from Kelsian Group Chair Fiona Hele and the Member for Mawson Jenni Mitton MP before Father David Still, of St Paul's Port Adelaide, blessed the vessel. The ceremony concluded with Ms Hele officially christening Wanggami by breaking a bottle of Kangaroo Island's own Dudley Bubbly sparkling wine across the vessel's bow, continuing the long-standing maritime tradition of wishing a vessel, her crew and all who sail on her safe passage and good fortune.

SeaLink South Australia General Manager Tracy Croft said the new vessels would build on SeaLink's long history of serving the Kangaroo Island community.

"This is an exciting time for Kangaroo Island and a really proud day for all our team and for everyone who has worked so hard for a number of years to bring this project to life," Ms Croft said.

"Our ferry service is an essential connection for Kangaroo Island, supporting residents, businesses, freight operators and visitors every day. These new vessels will strengthen that service through greater operational flexibility, more daily sailings and a modern and more comfortable and accessible journey for our customers.

"After years of planning, it's wonderful to see Wanggami officially christened, and one step closer to her commencing service. We're looking forward to welcoming passengers on board."

Kelsian Group Chief Operating Officer, Graeme Legh said the $57 million investment reflected the Group's long-term commitment to Kangaroo Island and regional South Australia.

"Safe, efficient and reliable transport services are fundamental to thriving regional communities. This investment secures the future of this essential service, delivering the capacity and reliability needed to support Kangaroo Island's residents, visitors, businesses and economy for decades to come,” Mr Legh said.

At 60 metres long and 20 metres wide, the vessels are approximately 10 metres longer and two metres wider than the current ferries providing 150m more vehicle lane length. The two vessels are identical in design and feature eight vehicle lanes, with drive-through in the same direction design for safer and faster vehicle loading and unloading that enables shorter turnaround times and more daily departures.

The new vessels also offer spacious passenger lounges with a range of seating options, a larger centrally located café, large-format windows, lift access to all three decks, accessible amenities on every level, a spacious sundeck, and a dedicated pet lounge.

Following the official proceedings, guests experienced an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the vessel, including the rare opportunity to visit the bridge and engine room, offering a first look at the future of the Kangaroo Island ferry service.

To learn more about the new Kangaroo Island ferry service, including vessel features, schedules and fares, visit www.sealink.com.au.