travel
Cape Willoughby Lighthouse. Below: An artist's impression of the new KI ferry.
New KI ferries prepare to sail
Travelling between beautiful Kangaroo Island and the mainland will become easier this year, with two new state-of-the-art ferries being launched and infrastructure at Cape Jervis and Penneshaw being upgraded.
Operated by SeaLink, the larger ferries named Wangammi and Ruwi, offer about 150m of extra space for vehicles. The new design will allow motorists to drive on and off in the same direction making boarding and disembarking easier, faster and safer.
On board, passengers will find a larger modern café, expansive windows for appreciating the view, a dedicated pet lounge and improved seating options. Accessibility will also be improved thanks to a passenger lift.
Daily sailings will increase, with up to 22 departures (11 trips each way) on weekdays scheduled in the peak season from September to April. SeaLink also offers single and multi-day packages to KI, combining ferry services with experiences such as guided tours and gourmet dining.
Can’t wait to visit KI? Visit raa.com.au/sealink to get 10 per cent off passenger fares.
3 cruises for the whole family
Multi-generational cruises for all.
BEST OF JAPAN
Choose from more than 150 connecting stateroom options to create the perfect combination on board the Celebrity Millennium. Enjoy dinner with a twist in the augmented reality restaurant and fun for the kids at Camp at Sea.
SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISING
On board, passengers can try simulated skydiving or rock climbing, before relaxing in Royal Caribbean’s interconnecting staterooms on the Quantum of the Seas, where up to nine guests can stay in spacious style.
HAWAIIAN ISLAND HOPPING
It’ll feel like home on board Norwegian’s Pride of America, with multi-bedroom family spaces, and spacious solo suites for those seeking solace. Try the Cadillac Diner and dive into Hawaiian culture making leis as a family.
Book your next holiday with RAA Travel.
Visit travel.raa.com.au for details.
Do I need domestic travel insurance?
We ask RAA Travel General Manager Gina Norman why domestic travel insurance may provide greater peace of mind when you holiday close to home.
Domestic travel, like international travel, isn’t immune to things going wrong. Depending on the policy you choose, getting domestic travel insurance can cover a range of mishaps, including:
- lost, damaged or delayed luggage
- car hire excess
- personal liability for accidentally damaging someone else’s property or injuring someone
- costs associated with amending or cancelling flights, accommodation and activities due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances.
In 2024, 31 per cent of insurance claims for domestic travel occurred before travellers departed for their trip, according to RAA data.
Holiday-makers are encouraged to get in the habit of taking out domestic insurance early, ideally at the same time as booking flights and accommodation.
Purchasing travel insurance at the last minute can leave travellers exposed if something goes wrong before buying the policy, like getting sick or if the region is subject to bushfire or flood.
It’s important to note that domestic travel insurance doesn’t cover medical expenses incurred while you’re away.
However, Australian residents have access to Medicare, or private health insurance if they’re a member of a health insurance fund, in case they need medical treatment, or a hospital stay while they’re away.
Trips across Australia can be a big financial investment, and uninsured travellers may risk paying a hefty price if things don’t go to plan.
Get a quote online at raa.com.au/travel-insurance
The information provided is general advice only. This insurance is issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 (Tokio Marine), AFSL 246548. Royal Automobile Association of South Australia Incorporated acts as agent for Tokio Marine and may receive a commission which is a percentage of the premium paid and may also receive a portion of the underwriting profit. Consider the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement, and Target Market Determination, available on the RAA website when deciding whether to purchase this product. Terms and Conditions, Limits and Sublimits apply.
Boost for First Nations tourism
A new partnership will be formed between the Federal Government and First Nations tourism businesses across Australia.
The First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership aims to support greater participation and economic opportunities for First Nations people and businesses in Australia’s tourism industry.
Representatives from each state and territory will provide leadership and guidance on respectfully embedding Australia’s rich cultural heritage in our tourism offerings. The partnership will also investigate the creation of a permanent First Nations national tourism peak body.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy says the move will support First Nations tourism businesses to provide unique experiences and drive more economic activity in the regions and local communities. “First Nations tourism provides opportunities to share the world’s oldest living culture with travellers from around the world, while empowering First Nations people through employment and business prospects,” she says.
More car-hire choice for members
RAA members can now save at five car-hire companies, with Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty and Dollar joining RAA Rewards alongside Sixt. The addition of Europcar and the Hertz Group gives RAA members more choice and value when searching for car hire in Australia and worldwide.
Members booking online can save up to 15 per cent on rental rates in Australia and New Zealand and up to 20 per cent on international bookings.
Terms and Conditions apply. Visit raa.com.au/car-hire for full T&Cs and to book for your next holiday.
IMAGES: Celebrity Cruises, Getty, RAA, SATC, SeaLink.
