Great Barrier Reef

One of the most popular Cairns holiday attractions is the Great Barrier Reef, and with good reason. There are plenty of activities, tours, and cruises to choose from which cater for ages, tastes and fitness levels.

Take a look around town

Enjoy a dip in the man-made swimming lagoon on The Esplanade, where you’ll also find The Pier Marketplace, walking trails, and an amphitheatre. Or, learn about local Indigenous culture by dropping into Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park in Smithfield, to the north of the city.

Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway

Glide just metres over the rainforest canopy onboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and enjoy spectacular views over Cairns and the surrounding World Heritage Listed tropical rainforests. Alternatively, join the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway and take a scenic journey through the mountains.

Docking

Your ship will dock at the Cairns Cruise Terminal. Clothing and souvenir shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and cafes are all within close walking distance from this point.

Getting Around

Taxis are widely available throughout the city.

Dining

Gourmet lovers will delight at the fabulous array of dining experiences, which ranges from fine restaurants and cafes to bistros, bars, pubs, and takeaway outlets. Follow your taste buds around the city centre and along The Esplanade, making sure to sample some local seafood and Queensland’s tropical and exotic fruits.

Please note that quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products, and sandwiches to be taken off the ship. However, commercially packaged confectionery, chips, and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.

Shopping

The compact downtown area offers almost all the shopping opportunities you need, including designer stores and boutiques at The Pier Marketplace and The Esplanade. You’ll also find Aussie beach wear, bush clothing, and contemporary arts and crafts in stores and galleries around the city. Looking for Indigenous art and objects? The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is a great place to find magnificent paintings, jewellery, clothing, and artifacts.

Climate

The tropics are typically subject to a wide range of weather extremes. The dry season starts in May and stretches to October, and typically sees a drop in humidity and milder temperatures that rarely dip below 20 degrees. Summer marks the beginning of the wet season, when rain can fall in torrents and the humidity rises. Nonetheless, there are usually still long stretches of sunshine and cooling sea breezes during this time. The temperature in summer can sometimes exceed 29 degrees.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can provide currency to foreign card holders.

Communication

Public telephones are available throughout the city, and mobile coverage is generally available.

What to Wear Ashore

To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, lightweight clothing, and a hat. You are also advised to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, an umbrella or waterproof jacket, and bottled water.

Shore Tours

Our Shore Tours can help you make the most out of your time in Cairns. Tours can be booked before departure via Cruise Control or onboard at the Shore Tours desk, and are subject to availability.

Environment

Coral is an extremely precious marine organism. In an effort to preserve its natural beauty and habitat, please avoid touching it in all circumstances. Please also note that as with most of Australia’s beaches, blue bottles can visit Cairns occasionally in the summer months, and exercise caution when swimming. During your time ashore, we also ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.