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Located in prime position between Cairns and Palm Cove, Yorkeys Knob is the perfect launching pad for a Far North Queensland adventure. Book into the Skyrail, Kuranda Village and Scenic Train Shore Tour to coast above the World Heritage Listed Wet Tropics Rainforest in a comfortable six-person gondola and get spectacular views of one of the world’s most beautiful rainforests. Then, explore Kuranda, also known as “the village in the rainforest”, before boarding the Kuranda Scenic Railway and making your way through incredible, rainforest-clad mountains.
Keen on diving into a marine adventure? Return to the coast on the Green Island Eco Adventure Shore Tour and discover 120 native plant species, abundant marine life, and coral gardens at Green Island. Following a catamaran ride across the Coral Sea, you’ll get to choose between joining a glass bottom boat coral viewing tour or simply relaxing on shore. Stroll through a magical, lush rainforest, recline on white sands, or swim or snorkel amongst tropical fish - the choice is yours!
Take the opportunity to explore the nearby tropical resort village of Port Douglas at your leisure on the Port Douglas On Your Own Shore Tour. After a winding journey along the stunning Queensland coastline, you’ll arrive to find boutiques, cafes, restaurants, a lively marina, and beautiful beaches. There, you’ll have 4 hours to explore the village at your own pace.
Soak up the sunshine and stroll amongst the shops, galleries, and historic buildings, or kick back and relax at a boardwalk cafe. Once you’ve had your fill of laidback leisure time, meet your driver at the designated location for a return trip to the ship.
P&O Cruises from Brisbane to Yorkeys Knob onboard the 7-night Barrier Reef Discovery Cruise, which also calls at Airlie Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas, and Willis Island (drop anchor).
Named for a Yorkshireman named George Lawson who arrived during northern Australia's mid-1800 gold rush, Yorkeys Knob is a tropical wildlife wonderland. This gorgeous cruise destination is close to plenty of incredible natural attractions and scenic sights including pristine beaches, a vibrant coral reef, and dramatic headlands. Located just a short drive away from Cairns, it’s the ideal destination for anyone wishing to discover the many unique, tropical delights that Far North Queensland has to offer.
Book into a P&O Shore Tour to experience the highlights of this stunning northern beaches suburb and make memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re gliding above the Wet Tropics Rainforest on a gondola, exploring nearby Port Douglas on foot, or crossing the Coral Sea by catamaran, there’s plenty to see and do at this irresistible cruise destination.
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
Surrounded by World Heritage Listed rainforest, Kuranda Village is the scenic site of plenty of shopping opportunities, and is also a major centre for opals and didgeridoos. Join the famous 100-year old Kuranda Scenic Railway for a journey through the mountains, enjoy an unforgettable rainforest experience aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, or explore the spectacular Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Home to over 120 native plant species and colourful bird life and surrounded by coral gardens and abundant marine life, Green Island is a tropical paradise. Notably, it’s the only coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef with a rainforest.
Feeling up for adventure? Get your heart racing in Cairns, where you can do everything from whitewater rafting and jet boating to parasailing. Or just explore this tropical paradise at your leisure. Alternatively, transfer to Port Douglas and spend the day exploring chic boutiques, amazing restaurants, and soaking up the relaxed tropical vibe.
Your ship will anchor offshore and a regular tender service will operate to and from Yorkeys Knob Marina.
Taxis are available from the marina, and shuttle buses can take you to Cairns for a small fee.
North Queensland is well known for its abundance of exotic fruits, fresh seafood such as prawns, mud crabs, crayfish, coral trout, and scallops, and its locally grown and processed coffee and tea. All of these delicious foods can be found on restaurant and café menus throughout the region.
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.
A short drive from Yorkeys Knob is Smithfield Shopping Centre, where you’ll find large department stores and over 60 specialty stores. Check onboard for the Cairns City shuttle service timetable.
Dry season in Yorkeys Knob is between May and October. During this time, the average minimum temperature is 17 degrees Celsius and the average maximum temperature is 31.4 degrees Celsius. During the wet season, tropical rainfalls caused by monsoons bring the average rainfall to 169mm.
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can provide currency to foreign card holders.
A public telephone is located at the pier, and mobile coverage is available.
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 biodegradable sunscreen and bottled water.
Our Shore Tours can help you make the most out of your time in Yorkeys Knob. Tours can be booked before departure via Cruise Control or onboard at the Shore Tours desk, and are subject to availability.
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 note that as with other Australian beaches, marine stingers can visit occasionally in the summer months. During your time ashore, we ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.