Cruise from Cairns to Fitzroy Island to explore the rainforest and Great Barrier Reef in one day, snorkel vibrant reefs from the beach, and enjoy pristine island landscapes up to six hours.
Key Highlights
Full day cruise to Fitzroy Island from Cairns
Flexible departure, 8.30am or 10:45am later start
Discover both rainforest and Great Barrier Reef environments
Swim and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs just off the beach
Explore pristine beaches and lush island landscapes
What’s included
Return cruise transfers from Cairns to Fitzroy Island
Up to 6 hours on Fitzroy Island
Overview
Experience a full day adventure with a cruise from Cairns to Fitzroy Island, perfectly blending the allure of the rainforest with the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Fitzroy Island is only 45 minutes from Cairns, making it a convenient tropical escape.
Spend up to six hours on the island, with time to swim, snorkel among colourful coral reefs, or simply relax on idyllic beaches. The island is home to lush rainforest trails and marine life, all accessible in a single visit.
Fitzroy Island's coral reefs can be reached straight from the shore, offering you the chance to discover stunning marine habitats right off the beach.
A 10:45am late departure cruise is available for visitors seeking a relaxed start to their island day. Enjoy the best of rainforest and reef at your own pace on this comprehensive day trip.
Commonly asked questions.
The full-day tour provides up to approximately 6.5 hours on Fitzroy Island, depending on the departure and ferry schedule.
The 8:30am service departs Fitzroy Island at 4:00pm and arrives back in Cairns at approximately 5:00pm.
The 10:45am service also departs Fitzroy Island at 4:00pm and returns to Cairns at approximately 5:00pm.
Yes. Fitzroy Island has several beaches where you can enjoy snorkelling and swimming directly from the shore. Snorkelling equipment is available as an optional extra.
Snorkelling equipment is an optional extra rather than part of the standard ferry fare. Equipment can include a mask, snorkel, fins, flotation vest and, during stinger season, a lycra suit.
Yes. Nudey Beach is one of Fitzroy Island's most popular attractions and can be reached by walking track from the main island area.
Yes. Fitzroy Island is covered by tropical rainforest and has several walking tracks, including tracks leading towards Nudey Beach and the island's summit. Walking tracks are through National Park and are undertaken at your own risk.
Absolutely. You can explore the rainforest, walk to Nudey Beach, relax on the beaches, enjoy the scenery or book a glass-bottom boat experience.
Yes. A glass-bottom boat tour is available as an optional extra and provides an opportunity to see the reef and marine life without snorkelling.
Yes. There are shaded areas beneath the island's trees, as well as areas around the beach where you can get out of the sun.
Additional info by the operator.
8:00/10.15am - Boarding at the Fitzroy Island Adventures vessel at Marlin Wharf, Cairns
8:30/10.45am - Depart Cairns for Fitzroy Island
9:15/11.30am - Arrive at Fitzroy Island
Free time to explore Fitzroy Island. Swim and snorkel from the beaches, visit Nudey Beach, explore the rainforest walking tracks, enjoy a glass bottom boat or simply relax on the beach.
4:00pm - Board the vessel at Fitzroy Island
4:15pm - Depart Fitzroy Island for Cairns
5:00pm - Arrive back in Cairns
Departure Point: Cairns
Travel Time: 45 minutes to Fitzroy Island
Full day experience on the island with flexible timings