The Bay of Shoals Boat Ramp in Kingscote is a popular ramp on Kangaroo Island, providing direct access to the waters of the same name. It serves both recreational boaters and commercial fishers. It is a sheltered, picturesque location, great for the sunrise view, good for fishing, and find pelicans greet you like a long-lost friend. Plus, you can find sea lions here resting on the rocky shore.
This dual-lane concrete ramp, with 5 5-tonne load limit, is supported by a central floating pontoon, making boat launching and retrieval easier. There is a platform a few metres for unloading and loading passengers from a tour operator who provides guided tour to swim with wild dolphins on Kangaroo Island.
There is ample parking space dedicated for car and trailer parking, though it can become busy during peak holiday periods. Nearby, there are fish-cleaning stations, restrooms, and picnic areas, allowing visitors to clean their catch or enjoy a meal by the water. The saltwater rock wall also provides a safe rock fishing platform for land-based fishos.
The surrounding waters are well-suited for those targeting local fish species like whiting, tommies, gar, squid, trevally, snook, barracouta, kingfish, snapper, King George whiting and Australian salmon.
Kingscote itself offers various convenient amenities, including shops, fuel stations, wineries, and accommodations, making it convenient for extended stays. Visitors can also explore local attractions like the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park or take scenic boat trips to nearby marine reserves.
| Feature |
Description |
| Number of ramp lanes |
2 (with pontoon) |
| Fish cleaning facilities |
Yes |
| Carpark spaces |
Large parking available for cars and trailers |
| Amenities |
Toilets, picnic areas, rubbish bins, lighting, wheelchair accessible parking lot and entrance |
| Ramp rating |
 - Excellent |