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Snorkelers exploring coral reefs near Fitzroy Island, visible from a glass-bottom boat on a Cairns day trip.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
aimee fortescue
AU

Aimee

Australia
Aug 2025
5/5
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review-image
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+2 more

We had a really lovely time visiting fitzroy Island yesterday. On our way back to cairns we sat on the upper sun deck with great views this only got bettter when we had an unexpected visitor join us 🐳🐋 The crew promptly turned the engines off and gave us an informative commentary on the humpback whales migration. This was such an unexpected treat not to mention a life long bucket list goal. All staff were friendly and professional. The boat was immaculately clean we will definitely be booking future adventures with this company and recommending to family and friends. Until next time.
Rhonda Jean
US

Rhonda

United States
Sep 2023
5/5
The great tour guide/instructor. Perfect day. Only negative is when signing up for the trip headiut prints the total fee for Headiut!! They fail toention that there is a $30 fee for the park which is payable before bus may move. Very misleading thinking there are no additional fees!!
Helen Jane Hey
GB

Helen

United Kingdom
Jul 2023
5/5
Very Professional .. good correspondence. Good level of equipment. Great course leader in Big Jayden who explained everything really clearly and in a measured way when we needed the info, Thrilling experience
Monica jut
AU

Monica

Australia
Aug 2025
5/5
The train trip brought back many memories for me, when I travelled on the Red Rattlers. I must say , I did have issues with the commentary. With the train being so noisy, I could hardly hear the voice on the speaker. When I last travelled this train 18 years ago, it was much clearer.
Tracy Patrick
GB

Tracy

United Kingdom
Nov 2024
5/5
Loved the whole experience. The cable car over the rainforest with a very helpful forest guide Hamish. Enjoyed the butterflies at the sanctuary and the koala at the koala garden, loved that they were awake. The train ride back was brilliant too.

Top things to do in Cairns

Fitzroy Island day tours: Explore beaches, forest trails & coral reefs

Start with return catamaran transfers from Cairns and enjoy up to 6 hours on Fitzroy Island, perfect for snorkeling, rainforest walks, and turtle encounters. Eco-certified, family-friendly, and accessible for all.

Why choose Fitzroy Island for your adventure?

Snorkelers exploring coral reefs with a marine biologist at Fitzroy Island.
  • Snorkel just off the beach: Slip into calm, shallow waters from Nudey Beach or Coral Gardens, no boat required. Guests often spot turtles, stingrays, and vibrant reef fish just metres from shore.
  • Hike to reef-view lookouts: Take on rainforest trails like the Summit Track or Lighthouse Walk for sweeping views of the Coral Sea. Many visitors say it’s the best way to enjoy the reef and rainforest in one go.
  • Meet sea turtles up close: Drop by the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to learn about rescue efforts and see turtles recovering from injury. Families love this meaningful, conservation-led experience.
  • Do more than just swim: Whether you're snorkeling, hiking, relaxing on coral beaches, or joining a reef talk, Fitzroy Island gives you the freedom to explore at your pace, with way more to do than a quick snorkel stop.
  • Upgrade to the Moore Reef Pontoon: Want more reef time? Add a pontoon experience with waterslides, glass-bottom boats, semi-subs, and guided marine activities. It’s perfect if you're after more immersive reef adventures.

Things to know before booking your Fitzroy Island tour

  • Best for adventurers & nature lovers: A full-day Fitzroy Island tour gives you time to reach the summit, snorkel Coral Gardens, and attend the Turtle Centre’s 1 PM talk. Add a glass-bottom boat ride or snorkel safari for a deeper reef experience. Starting from AU$105.
  • Best for non-swimmers & relaxed explorers: Not into the water? No worries. Glide over coral reefs on a glass-bottom boat tour, stroll shaded coastal tracks, or relax near Welcome Bay. Add a visit to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre for a closer look at turtle care and release. Starting from AU$105.
  • Half-day tours: Spend around 4 hours on the island, ideal for cruise passengers or short-stay visitors. Return ferry from Cairns included, with optional add-ons like lunch or gear rental. From AU$105.
  • Full-day tours: Get up to 6 hours to snorkel, hike, and unwind. Perfect for combining reef time with rainforest walks. From AU$105.

Meet your tour operators

  • Fitzroy Island Adventures: Budget-friendly and family-ready, with half- and full-day ferry packages plus add-ons like snorkel hire and glass-bottom boat rides. From AU$105.
  • Sunlover Reef Cruises: Best for all-in-one packages, add Moore Reef pontoon access, lunch, and marine activities. From AU$185.
  • Air Tours: Take a scenic 40-minute flight over Fitzroy Island and the Great Barrier Reef, great for dry reef viewing and aerial photos. From AU$229.

Upgrade options to personalise your trip

  • Snorkel gear hire: Explore Coral Gardens or Nudey Beach at your own pace.
  • Glass-bottom boat tours: Drift over coral gardens while learning about marine life from onboard experts, best for families, non-swimmers, and anyone wanting to stay dry.
  • Guided snorkel safari: Join marine biologists on a small-group snorkel to deeper reef sites, perfect for confident swimmers seeking guidance and a chance to spot turtles, rays, and colourful fish.
  • Seawalker helmet dive: Walk the ocean floor in a specially designed helmet, no swimming skills required, while an instructor stays with you the entire time. Suitable for ages 12+ (minimum height ~140 cm).

Your Fitzroy Island tour options explained

Group of tourists enjoying the Full Day Fitzroy Island Adventure Tour from Cairns, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and lush greenery of the island

Day tours

Price: From AU$105

  • Sail to Fitzroy Island and spend the day your way: hike rainforest trails, snorkel from the beach, or visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
  • Choose a half-day (~4 hours) or full-day tour with optional activity add-ons.
  • Return ferry transfers from Cairns are included.
  • Snorkel gear, glass-bottom boat rides, and lunch are available as upgrades.
  • Great for first-time visitors, families, and casual adventurers who want to explore at their own pace.

Recommended experiences:

Full day Fitzroy Island tour

Half day Fitzroy Island tour

Tourists snorkeling at Fitzroy Island with Great Barrier Reef in view.

Island + Pontoon tours

Price: From AU$295

  • Combine Fitzroy Island with Moore Reef. Spend the morning exploring the island, then head to a floating pontoon packed with reef activities.
  • Includes waterslides, glass-bottom boats, semi-subs, and underwater observatories.
  • Buffet lunch and marine expert presentations included.
  • Ideal for families, groups, or those wanting deeper reef access

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise

Helicopter cockpit view over the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Flight tours

Price: From AU$229

Take off from Cairns Airport for a bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef, including Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff Cay.

  • Stunning aerial views from every seat, no water activities included.
  • Great for photography, couples, and dry reef viewing.
  • Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
  • High chance of spotting marine life during peak seasons.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Outer Great Barrier Reef 40‑Minute Scenic Flight

Things to do on your Fitzroy Island tour

Aerial view of a guided snorkelling tour of the Natural Pools of Molara

Snorkel from the beach

Snorkel directly off Nudey Beach or Coral Gardens, calm, clear waters make it perfect for beginners and confident swimmers alike. Turtles are frequently spotted, and most tours include gear rental with optional guided snorkel safaris.

Scuba divers exploring coral reefs in Tanjung Benoa, Bali.
Group of tourists enjoying the Full Day Fitzroy Island Adventure Tour from Cairns, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and lush greenery
Hikers on a trail overlooking Fitzroy Island and Coral Sea near Cairns, Australia.
Tourists relaxing on a sundeck of a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef.

Your Fitzroy Island day: Itinerary ideas for your visit

Active & scenic

  • 8am: Ferry from Cairns Marina on the Fitzroy Flyer (about 45 minutes).
  • 9am: Summit Walk (3.6 km return, steep in parts) to the island’s highest point for wide Coral Sea views.
  • 12pm: Lunch at Foxy’s Bar with sea views.
  • 1:30pm: Walk the track to Nudey Beach through rainforest and coastal woodland.
  • 2:30pm: Snorkel the fringing reef at Nudey Beach; typically calm, clear water with coral and fish.
  • 4:30pm: Return to Welcome Bay and get ready to board.
  • 5pm: Ferry back to Cairns.

Perfect for: Hikers and active travelers who want both lookout views and reef time.

Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise

Snorkel and relax

  • 10:10am: Mid-morning ferry from Cairns for a slower start.
  • 11am: Arrive; hire snorkel gear and a stinger suit at the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub.
  • 11:30am: Walk to Nudey Beach and begin snorkeling.
  • 1pm: Picnic on the beach, or lunch at Foxy’s Bar or the General Store.
  • 2pm: Snorkel the reefs in Welcome Bay near the main beach; look for giant clams and turtles.
  • 3pm: Short, self-guided visit to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to learn about treatment and release; guided talk usually at 1pm (bookings may be required).
  • 4:30pm: Unwind on the beach or grab a drink at Foxy’s.
  • 5pm: Ferry back to Cairns.

Perfect for: Families and marine-life fans who want an easy mix of water time and downtime.

Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island tour with snorkeling and lunch

Non‑swimmers & rainforest lovers

  • 8am: Morning ferry from Cairns.
  • 8:45am: Arrive; stop by the Sports Hub to see the day’s activities.
  • 10am: Glass‑bottom boat tour (about 45 minutes) to view coral gardens without getting in the water.
  • 11am: Secret Garden Walk (1 km return), an easy rainforest loop.
  • 12:15pm: Fish feeding at the main jetty (free, daily).
  • 1pm: Lunch at Foxy’s Bar or the resort café.
  • 2pm: Turtle Rehabilitation Centre for a guided talk and to see recovering turtles.
  • 3:30pm: Gentle stroll along Welcome Bay; enjoy the shoreline.
  • 5pm: Ferry back to Cairns.

Perfect for: Non‑swimmers, seniors, and travelers who prefer land-based activities and conservation-focused stops.

Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise

Plan your cruise to Fitzroy Island

Snorkelers exploring coral reef near Fitzroy Island, glass-bottom boat tour, Cairns day trip experience.

Fitzroy Island enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with the dry season (May–October) offering the clearest skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for snorkeling and rainforest walks. Average daytime temps range from 21–29 °C, and water stays around 23–29 °C, making it comfortable for most visitors.

  • Peak season: June–August (lower humidity, busiest)
  • Wet season: November–March brings higher humidity and occasional heavy rain, still warm but less predictable
  • Shoulder season: April–May & September–October (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
  • Ferries depart from Cairns Marlin Marina (Reef Fleet Terminal area) and take about 45 minutes to reach Fitzroy Island.
  • Paid parking is available at the Pier Shopping Complex (~AU$1.60/hour).
  • Popular departure times include 8am, 8:30am, 10:10am, or 10:45am, with return trips from the island around 4pm to 5pm. Check-in usually opens 30–45 minutes before boarding.
Accessible restrooms with clear signage at a tourist attraction.
  • Cairns terminal: Restrooms, ticket desks, shaded seating areas; drop-off zone outside the Reef Fleet Terminal, accessible parking at nearby Pier Plaza (AU$2 $2/hr).
  • Mobility-friendly zones: Jetty landing, resort reception, lodge pathways, and accessible bathrooms in select accommodation suites. National park trails and Nudey Beach walk are uneven and not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly.
  • Island basics: Public restrooms, lockers (~ AU$10 for 4 hrs), freshwater showers, general store, and shaded picnic tables at Welcome Bay near the resort reception.
  • Snorkel and gear hire available at the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub, including snorkel sets and stinger suits (Nov–May).
  • Turtle Rehabilitation Centre: Flat, level access with viewing pools and guided talks, gear-friendly for children and guests with mobility concerns.
  • Accessibility notes: Ferry boarding requires navigating a gangway (~790 mm wide); wheelchairs without carer support may be challenged by steeper paths and firm beach terrain. Resort areas have ramps and lifts, but walking trails are not accessible.
Woman applying sunscreen on a beach in Bali, Indonesia.

Most tour packages include snorkel gear and flotation devices, but bringing a few extras will enhance your day.

  • Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), swimwear, towel, hat, sunglasses, refillable water bottle
  • Footwear: Water shoes for beaches, closed shoes for hikes
  • Gear: Snorkel gear and stinger suits (rent on island or bring your own)
  • Extras: Waterproof bag, change of clothes, insect repellent, power bank
  • Health: Seasickness tablets if needed
  • Payments: Cash for lockers (~AU $7–10) + card for upgrades or snacks
A signboard reading "Alcohol free zone" fixed onto a pole
  • Arrive early: Check in at least 30–45 minutes before your ferry departs to avoid delays and get your preferred sailing time.
  • Use lockers: Bring small coins or cash if you plan to use on-island lockers (approx. AU$7–10).
  • Snorkeling sweet spots: Visit Nudey Beach or Welcome Bay mid-morning for the clearest, calmest waters, great for turtle sightings.
  • Protect the reef: Use only reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching, stepping on, or feeding marine animals.
  • Dress smart: Pack a refillable water bottle, hat, and closed-toe or reef-safe water shoes, useful for rocky shores and hiking trails.
  • Don’t miss the turtle talk: Visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at 1 PM (Tues–Sun); spots are limited, so arrive early.
  • Rain or shine: Tours run in all weather, watch your footing on trails after rain.

More things to do in the Great Barrier Reef

Scuba divers Great Barrier Reef

Scuba diving

Frequently asked questions about Fitzroy Island tours

What are the cheapest Fitzroy Island day tours?

You’ll find half-day tours starting from AU$97 depending on the season. Optional extras like snorkel gear or a glass-bottom boat are available as upgrades.

Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island half-day tour

Can I snorkel directly from the beach?

Nudey Beach and Coral Gardens offer easy shore access with calm, shallow water. Many visitors spot turtles, reef fish, and even reef sharks without a boat.

Are tour operators consistent in prices and offerings?

Fitzroy Island Adventures charges AU$97–105 off‑peak to AU$105 for standard tours, with upgrades available. Sunlover Reef Cruises offers full-day packages from AU$152–185, often including lunch and activity combos.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own snorkel gear, including fins and stinger suits. Just make sure it’s clean to avoid bringing any contaminants onto the reef. If you don’t want to carry gear, you can rent it at the beach hire hut or include it in your tour package when booking.

What do I need to know about stinger season?

Stinger season typically runs from November to May, when box jellyfish and other marine stingers can be present. During this time, it’s strongly advised—sometimes required—to wear a full-length stinger suit while swimming or snorkeling.

How long is the hike to Nudey Beach, and is it difficult?

The walk to Nudey Beach takes about 15–20 minutes from the main jetty. It’s a scenic but uneven trail with some steps and rocky patches, so closed-toe shoes are recommended. While not overly strenuous, it's not suitable for prams or people with mobility issues. The beach itself is unpatrolled and has no amenities, so bring water and supplies.

Is Fitzroy Island suitable for non-swimmers or families?

Yes, glass-bottom boat tours, scenic trails, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre visits, and sheltered beaches make it ideal for non-swimmers, kids, and family groups.

Are lockers or storage available on the island?

There are no public lockers, so it’s best to pack light and leave valuables at your hotel or accommodation in Cairns. If you're staying at the resort, you can store belongings in your room.

Is Fitzroy Island wheelchair or mobility accessible?

Parts of the island, such as the resort and Welcome Bay beach area, are accessible, but many walking trails—including the path to Nudey Beach—have uneven terrain and are not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

Is the island pet-friendly?

Pets are not allowed on Fitzroy Island as it is part of a protected National Park. Only certified service animals with proper documentation may be permitted under special conditions.

What’s the difference between Fitzroy-only tours and Pontoon combo tours?

Island-only tours offer reef snorkeling off the beach and rainforest exploration. Pontoon combo packages (Moore Reef) include water slides, semi-sub rides, underwater observatory, marine activities, and lunch starting from AU$295.

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