Reefs, Wrecks and Daring Sailors(T1)

Wadjemup, Rottnest Island is encircled with 27 shipwrecks, some dating back 200 years before Captain Cook’s voyage. From the Transit to the Janet, Denton Holme, and Kiryo Maru; each wreck becomes the lead character in a story that grips students’ interest in nautical history. Spot where reefs and wrecks still emerge from the ocean, and discover the methods used to guide ships safely into Fremantle. 

Crowding into tiny historic buildings on this tour, you can feel the sailors’ shadows. Your guide’s stories come alive when you walk on the same ground as those who came before you.  

“The students love the story about the sailors who used to go out to fish every night, and they would always come back very, suspiciously, happy - and without any fish. It was revealed that they had been ‘fishing’ for Scotch whisky that had sunk with one of the wrecked ships!” Denia Daffen, RIA Voluntary Guide. 

With such visceral stories of daring sailors and tragic shipwrecks, every student leaves with a deeper interest in West Australian maritime history.

Meeting Location: RVGA Information Booth

Tour prices are valid until 30 June 2025.