Transport at Lake St. Claire end of OT

[johnrs]

Family of five, doing OT just before Christmas.
Can anyone tell me if it is necessary to book the Lake St. Claire Ferry ahead of time, or can you just go to the wharf and hop on/ring the ferry company when you finish the walk? If ahead of time what happens if you finish the walk a day earlier/later than expected?
Also, does anyone know how to arrange transport between Lake St. Claire and Derwent Bridge Wilderness Lodge has to be booked ahead of time? The lodge doesn't seem to run a shuttle itself.

[GPSGuided]

I'm also just organizing something similar for Lake St Clair over Xmas. From from I gathered, you'll best book the ferry or they may not take you if there are booked passengers or when the luggage load is high. Call Lake St Clair Lodge (03 6289 1137) to book. There's a two-way radio at Narcissus Hut that you can use to call the operator in case you are early or late but having a booking will secure the earliest passage.