Broken Hill
Broken Hill
Driving

Stokes Bay to Broken Hill

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Stokes Bay to Broken Hill involves a ferry crossing from Kangaroo Island to the mainland, followed by a long-distance drive through South Australia and New South Wales. You will drive to Penneshaw, take the SeaLink ferry to Cape Jervis, and then navigate through Adelaide towards the Barrier Highway. The total distance is approximately 1100 kilometers. Expect a travel time of around 13 hours.

Total Distance: 1100 km driving distance; 750 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the only practical method; there are no direct flights from Kangaroo Island to Broken Hill.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to reach Broken Hill from Kangaroo Island.
Compare Stokes Bay to Broken Hill Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
13 hours
Avg Price
300-450 AUD
Operator
SeaLink + Personal Vehicle
Route
Penneshaw-Cape Jervis Ferry, A1, A32.

Ensure you have a reliable GPS as the route involves several highway changes.

Travel Tips
  • Ferry Booking
    Book your ferry crossing well in advance to ensure availability for your vehicle.
  • Highway Safety
    The A32 Barrier Highway can be busy; stay alert and use designated rest areas.
  • Fuel Efficiency
    Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption on long highway stretches.
  • Rest Stops
    Utilize designated rest areas in towns like Burra or Peterborough to refresh.
  • Weather Awareness
    Check for heatwave warnings if traveling during the summer months.
Safety Tips
  • Fatigue Management
    Do not push through exhaustion; stop at a motel if you feel too tired to drive.
  • Wildlife
    Be extra careful at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active on the roads.
  • Vehicle Maintenance
    Check your tire pressure and engine oil before starting the long journey.
  • Emergency Supplies
    Carry at least 10 liters of water and some non-perishable food in your car.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct flight?
    No, there are no direct flights from Kangaroo Island to Broken Hill.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes approximately 13 hours, excluding ferry time and rest stops.
  • What is the best route?
    The route via the Barrier Highway (A32) is the most common path for this journey.
  • Can I take a bus?
    You can take a bus from Adelaide to Broken Hill, but you must first reach Adelaide from the island.
  • Is the ferry expensive?
    Prices vary; check the SeaLink website for current rates based on your vehicle size.
Quick Info
  • From Stokes Bay, South Australia, Australia
  • To Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn and Spring are ideal for visiting Broken Hill, avoiding the extreme heat of summer.

Things to Do in Broken Hill
1
Living Desert Sculptures
Visit these stunning sculptures located on a hill overlooking the desert. It is a great spot for sunset.
2
Line of Lode Miner's Memorial
Learn about the mining history of Broken Hill at this moving memorial.
3
Pro Hart Gallery
Explore the art of Pro Hart, one of Australia's most famous artists, in his home gallery.
4
Silverton
Take a short drive to the historic town of Silverton, famous for its film history and desert landscapes.
Tags
Stokes Bay to Broken Hill Kangaroo Island to Broken Hill SeaLink ferry driving to Broken Hill Adelaide to Broken Hill route South Australia to Broken Hill best route to Broken Hill traveling from KI long distance driving Broken Hill transport