Cairns Tickets































































From happy customers

Loved by 51 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Jenny T

New Zealand
Couple
2 weeks ago
Our guide was informative, interactive and passionate about his work. We learnt so much more and the meal at the end was delicious

Cameron N

Australia
Group
Jan 2026

+2 more

Small group night tour with friendly informative host. Family loved it. Thoroughly recommended. Book ahead as a 'must do' when in Cairns!

Joanne M

Australia
Solo
Mar 2026

+2 more

#The aquarium is amazing! I took so many photos, I basically ran my phone battery flat! 10/10. Highly recommended!! I went with my mother, my niece and her partner and their two small children and we all had an amazing time. We were able fi

Trenton W

Australia
Family
Jan 2026
Such a wonderful experience. Begins with friendly staff who explain the journey and tips about saving information about the animals. Inside the aquarium i was surprised to how many different animals there was. I was not expecting such a large variety. I seen fish and reptiles i have never seen before. Definitely going back in the future.

Mehdi T

Australia
Couple
Dec 2025

+2 more

Loved it. Stunning views the whole way and Kuranda is a beautiful little village with a nice, relaxed vibe. The scenic train and Skyrail were both amazing and well organised. Definitely worth doing.

Sophie T

Australia
Family
Apr 2026
Very informative, staff were lovely and friendly, explained everything in detail and answered all questions asked, ensuring we had a lovely experience.

Quick overview

  • Cruise options: Choose between half-day and full-day Fitzroy Island cruises, with optional upgrades like snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boats, guided snorkel safaris, and lunch packages.
  • Routes & duration: Cruises take ~45 minutes each way, with ~2–4 hours on half-day trips and ~6 hours on full-day experiences.
  • Boats & seating: Travel on high-speed catamarans with indoor air-conditioned seating and open decks; seating is generally first-come, first-served.
  • Boarding hub: All cruises depart from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal. Arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in and boarding.
  • Inclusions: Standard tickets include return transfers and island access, with optional add-ons for snorkeling, guided activities, and equipment hire.
  • When to book: Full-day cruises and activity upgrades fill up quickly during peak season and on weekends, so booking a few days in advance is recommended.
  • Best upgrade: Choose a reef pontoon combo for access to outer reef sites, more activities, and a fuller Great Barrier Reef experience.

Compare your options above to find the best Fitzroy Island cruise for your trip.

Find your best Fitzroy Island tour match here

Cruise typeRoute / sightsBoarding pointInclusionsBoat/seatingDurationCancellationBest forPrice from

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half-Day Cruise With Activity Upgrades

Welcome Bay, Nudey Beach, fringing reef, rainforest trails

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Return ferry, island access, optional snorkel gear, glass-bottom boat upgrades

High-speed catamaran

2 hr. 30 min. - 4 hr. 15 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Short visits, cruise passengers, and travelers with limited time

From AU$108

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades

Coral gardens, Nudey Beach, Turtle Rehab Centre, rainforest walks

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Return ferry, extended island time, optional snorkel safari, glass-bottom boat, lunch upgrades

High-speed catamaran

6 hr. - 8 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

First-time visitors wanting flexibility and time to explore

From AU$108

From Cairns: 2 Islands in 1 Day Trip of Fitzroy & Green Islands

Fitzroy Island + Green Island reefs, beaches, coral lagoons, rainforest

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Return transfers, time on both islands, optional activity upgrades

Catamaran

8 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Travelers wanting to see two reef islands in one day

From AU$196

Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

Fringing reef, coral gardens, beach snorkeling, rainforest

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Snorkel gear, glass-bottom boat tour, buffet lunch, reef presentation

Catamaran

8 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Value seekers wanting activities and meals included

From AU$202

Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch by Sunlover

Fitzroy Island + Moore Reef pontoon, outer reef coral systems

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Snorkeling, pontoon access, semi-sub, waterslide, buffet lunch

Catamaran + reef pontoon

9 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Families and activity lovers wanting maximum reef experiences

From AU$337

From Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef 40-Minute Scenic Flight

Aerial reef views, coral cays, reef systems, turquoise lagoons

Cairns Airport

40-min scenic flight, window seat, pilot commentary

Light aircraft

40 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Non-swimmers and photographers wanting reef views without water activities

From AU$239

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Sunlover

Outer reef pontoon, coral gardens, marine life hotspots

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Snorkeling, pontoon activities, semi-sub, buffet lunch

Catamaran + pontoon

8 hr. - 9 hr.

Free cancellation (24h)

Families and beginners wanting a structured reef experience

From AU$307

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Full Day Cruise with Guided Snorkelling Tours

Outer reef sites, diverse coral ecosystems, marine life

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Guided snorkeling tours, equipment, reef briefings

Catamaran

8 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Confident swimmers wanting guided reef exploration

From AU$275

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades

Green Island lagoon, coral reefs, sandy beaches, rainforest

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Return ferry, island access, optional snorkel gear, glass-bottom boat, activities

Catamaran

6 hr. - 8 hr.

Free cancellation (24h)

Families and non-swimmers wanting easy reef access

From AU$109

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch

Outer reef coral gardens, marine life viewing sites

Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Snorkel gear, guided experience, lunch included

Catamaran

8 hr. - 8 hr. 30 min.

Free cancellation (24h)

Budget-conscious travelers wanting a simple reef day trip

From AU$275

What to expect on your Fitzroy Island tour?

Cruise ship approaching Fitzroy Island beach with lush green hills in the background.
Tourists sitting on rocks overlooking ocean and forest on Fitzroy Island trail.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing marine life during Fitzroy Island tour from Cairns.
Person overlooking ocean and lush hills on Fitzroy Island adventure trail.
Boat approaching Fitzroy Island with lush hills and clear blue water.
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Quick departure from Cairns marina

Board your ferry at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and reach the island in just 45 minutes across the Coral Sea.

Flexible island exploration

Spend your time snorkeling, hiking rainforest trails, or relaxing on beaches like Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach.

Snorkeling straight from the shore

The island’s fringing reef is easily accessible, with coral gardens and marine life visible just meters from the beach.

Optional reef and activity upgrades

Enhance your trip with glass-bottom boat tours, guided snorkel safaris, or marine biologist-led experiences.

Adventure + nature mix

Unlike resort-style islands, Fitzroy offers hiking trails, summit walks, and a more natural, rugged environment.

Relaxed return journey

After a full day of exploring, cruise back to Cairns with ocean views and onboard comfort.

Things to know before booking a Fitzroy Island tour

  • Booking window & availability: Fitzroy Island cruises operate daily, but popular options like Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades and combo reef tours often sell out 3–5 days in advance, especially during peak season (June–October).
  • Cruise types & experience formats: Choose between short island visits like Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half-Day Cruise With Activity Upgrades, full-day exploration options, or bundled experiences such as Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch by Sunlover for added reef activities.
  • Routes & duration options: All cruises depart from Cairns and reach Fitzroy Island in ~45 minutes. Half-day options allow ~2–4 hours on the island, while full-day tours like Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch offer up to 6 hours.
  • Island vs outer reef experience: Island-based tours focus on beach snorkeling and rainforest exploration. Combo products such as Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Sunlover extend your trip to the outer reef for deeper coral diversity and structured activities.
  • Activities & inclusions: Basic ferry tickets include transfers and island access. Activity-led tours add snorkeling gear, guided snorkel safaris, glass-bottom boat tours, and meals. Premium bundles like Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch include most activities in one package.
  • Boat types & comfort: Transfers are operated on large, stable catamarans or ferries with indoor seating and open decks. Longer reef combos may include pontoons for added comfort and activity zones.
  • Boarding point & check-in: All cruises depart from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal. Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check-in, especially for full-day and combo tours.
  • Weather, seasonality & sea conditions: Cruises run year-round. The best conditions are from May to October, with calmer seas and clearer water. Afternoon winds can make return journeys slightly choppier, so morning departures are often smoother.

Your Fitzroy Island tour boarding point

Man driving a car on a city street.

Address: Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns City, QLD, Australia

Getting there:

  • By bus: Get off at Cairns City Bus Station and walk 5–7 minutes towards the marina along Spence Street
  • By taxi/car: 5-minute drive from Cairns CBD; drop-off available at the terminal entrance, with paid parking options nearby
  • On foot: 5-10 minute walk from most central hotels and the Esplanade area

Famous for: The main gateway to Great Barrier Reef cruises, located along Cairns’ marina waterfront.

What you’ll see on your Fitzroy Island tour

Nudey Beach:

Nudey Beach

A stunning coral beach with clear water and reef access just offshore—ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.

Hikers on a trail overlooking Fitzroy Island and Coral Sea near Cairns, Australia.
Scuba divers exploring coral reef with fish in Tanjung Benoa, Bali.
Tourists walking on a forest path during a self-guided tour on Fitzroy Island.
Visitor overlooking ocean view from Fitzroy Island trail.

Plan your Fitzroy Island tour

People enjoying a glass bottom boat tour near Fitzroy Island.
  • Arrival time: Arrive at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal 30–45 minutes before departure to allow enough time for check-in and boarding queues
  • Tickets & ID: Present your mobile voucher along with a valid photo ID for verification
  • Boarding process: Boarding usually begins 20–30 minutes before departure and closes shortly before sailing
  • Seating: Seating is generally open, so arriving early helps secure preferred spots like upper decks or window views
  • Baggage: Carry light bags only, as onboard storage is limited and large luggage is not permitted
  • During boarding: Follow crew instructions and signage for a smooth and safe boarding process
Person checking time on wristwatch.
  • Morning departures: Cruises typically depart between ~8am and 10:45am, depending on the operator and itinerary.
  • Return departures: Return sailings from the island usually run between ~3:30pm and 5pm.
  • Best time of day: Early morning departures are ideal for calmer sea conditions, smoother transfers, and more time on the island before crowds build up.
  • Best season to cruise: May to October, which offers clearer water, lower humidity, and more stable weather conditions, making it the best period for snorkeling and overall reef visibility.
Accessible restrooms with clear signage at a tourist attraction.
  • Restrooms: Available onboard most vessels and across key areas on Fitzroy Island for convenience throughout your visit
  • Showers & changing areas: Freshwater showers and basic changing facilities are available on the island to rinse off after swimming or snorkeling
  • Storage & lockers: Paid lockers are available on the island to securely store valuables and small bags
  • Equipment & activity centre: Snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and other activity equipment can be hired directly on the island.
  • Food & dining options: Cafes, a general store, and casual dining spots offer meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day
  • Seating & relaxation areas: Shaded seating, picnic areas, and beachfront spots are available for relaxing between activities.
  • Beach access: Easy access to beaches like Nudey Beach and Welcome Bay for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing
  • Resort facilities: Access to select resort amenities such as walking trails, rest areas, and visitor services
Woman applying sunscreen on a beach in Bali, Indonesia.
  • Ferry access: Most ferries are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, with stable boarding and indoor seating areas
  • Jetty & main areas: The arrival jetty and key island facilities are generally accessible, including pathways around the main resort area
  • Terrain limitations: Some walking trails and beaches, including sections leading to Nudey Beach, can be uneven or steep
  • Onboard movement: Open decks and certain areas may involve steps, while indoor lounges are easier to navigate
  • Assistance available: Crew and island staff can assist with boarding and general mobility support
  • Plan ahead: Accessibility may vary by vessel and activity, so it’s best to confirm specific requirements before booking.
Visitors' guide

Tips & guidelines

  • Visit Nudey Beach early in the day to enjoy fewer crowds and better snorkeling conditions.
  • Bring reef shoes, as some beaches have coral rubble and can be rough underfoot.
  • Choose a full-day tour if you want enough time for both hiking trails and snorkeling spots.
  • Upgrade to a snorkel safari if you prefer guided reef exploration with expert insights.
  • Pack light, as onboard storage is limited and large bags can be inconvenient.
  • Check tide conditions before snorkeling, as visibility and access can vary throughout the day.
  • Avoid midday hikes during hotter months, as trails offer limited shade and temperatures can rise quickly.
  • Consider reef combo tours if you want to experience greater coral diversity beyond the island.

Frequently asked questions about Fitzroy Island 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

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