14/10/2026
IMPORTANT UPDATE | Kangaroo Island Ferry Service
SeaLink has confirmed the planned ferry service shutdown will proceed from 20–22 October 2026, subject to weather conditions, to allow installation of the new ramps at Cape Jervis and Penneshaw.
No ferry services will operate during these three days.
Consistent with previous advice, once the new ramps are installed, SeaLion 2000 will recommence operation as a single vessel for three to four days while harbour training of crew occurs on the first new vessel, Wanggami, before she is brought into service end of October 2026.
In relation to Ruwi, the second new vessel for the Kangaroo Island Ferry Service, she successfully completed her sea trials and is ready for departure. Despite SeaLink’s best efforts to facilitate a departure date for Ruwi to commence alongside Wanggami, commercial negotiations with the company SeaLink contracted to supply Ruwi, have not yet been successful.
SeaLink representatives are on the ground talking to the local shipyard in relation to expediting a departure date for Ruwi.
While extremely disappointing for everyone involved, we are doing everything within our power to ensure Ruwi arrives in South Australia and commence service to Kangaroo Island as soon as possible.
We sincerely apologise for the delay of the commencement of both new ferries, however we look forward to bringing the first new ferry into service later this month and will provide further updates as soon we can about the departure date for Ruwi is confirmed.
🔗 Read the full update: sealink.com.au/kifs
