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Cairns Adventure Group - FAQ
Cairns Rafting Tours
Our Cairns rafting tours are an adrenalin rush and fantastic introduction to white water rafting. Half day tours hosted on the Barron River, in the Barron Gorge National Park, Wet Tropics World Heritage area.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Can I book this today?
Yes – the Cairns Rafting Tours have an afternoon departure*, so pending availability it can be booked in the morning on the day of travel. You can choose to self-drive* to the tour starting point, or book return transfers with pick-ups commencing at 2.30pm. The experience includes all safety gear, professional guides and fun rapids. It’s suitable for first-timers and experienced paddlers alike.
*If you self-drive you must be at the designated meeting point at 3pm. This is at the car park at 101 Lake Placid Road. Our team will meet you at the carpark – please wait with your vehicle.
Cairns Rafting Tours - What should I bring?
Wear swimwear under your clothes and secure footwear with heel straps*. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, sunscreen, water and your booking voucher. Leave valuables at your accommodation.
*Any shoe with a back strap or that wraps around the heel. Examples include crocs (in sports mode), sandals (with a back strap), old runners and reef shoes. If you do not have suitable shoes, they can be hired from us for $5 per pair. This can be arranged in advance by calling our Office, or on the day with our Guides. This is in addition to the tour cost.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Do I need rafting experience to participate?
No rafting experience is needed. Guides will show you everything you need to know for a safe and fun trip.
Cairns Rafting Tours - What age limits are there?
You must be at least 12 years old to join this tour. Those under 18 must travel with a responsible guardian.
Cairns Rafting Tours - How long is the Cairns Rafting Tour?
The rafting itself is about 2 hours. With transfers and briefing included, allow up to about 4.5 hours for the full Cairns Rafting experience.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Is transport included?
Yes. Return transfers from Cairns City and selected Northern Beaches accommodation are included when you choose that option at booking. Self-drive options are also available.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Is safety equipment provided?
All safety gear including helmets and life jackets is provided and included in your tour. Guides are trained and focused on safety throughout the experience.
Cairns Rafting Tours - What if the weather changes?
Tours operate in most weather conditions. If river levels or weather make rafting unsafe, we will contact you prior to departure with options to reschedule or alternative experiences.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Can non-swimmers join?
Yes. The Barron River rafting sections include calmer stretches as well as rapids, and guides will support you throughout the tour. However confidence around water is recommended.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Is rafting suitable for families?
Yes. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity for those 12 and over. Watch the river scenery and rainforest surroundings as you travel through the gorge. Please note this tour is not suitable for expectant mothers.
Cairns Rafting Tours - Where do we meet?
Pickup details and meeting times are confirmed after you book. If self-driving, you will meet at the designated start point at Lake Placid, which is at the car park at 101 Lake Placid Road. Our team will meet you at the carpark – please wait with your vehicle.
Tully River Rafting
The World Class Tully River. Get ready to conquer grade 3 and 4 rapids on a wild ride through a spectacular gorge, surrounded by World Heritage rainforest.
Tully River Rafting - Can I book this today?
Yes – the Tully River Rafting Tours have a morning departure* commencing at 10am, so pending availability and the time of your booking, it can be booked on the morning on the day of travel. There’s the option to include return transfers from Cairns and Mission Beach or self-drive* and meet the group in Tully. This world-class rafting experience tackles grade 3 and 4 rapids through a spectacular gorge in Tully Gorge National Park. All safety gear, training and a meal are included and a part of the adventure.
*If self-driving, please note you need to be at the meeting location at 12.55pm. This is at the Golden Gumboot (a landmark) in Tully, the corner of Hort and Butler Street in Tully.
Tully River Rafting - What should I bring?
Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a towel, spare clothes, sturdy shoes with heel straps*, sunscreen, insect repellent and plenty of water. Bring your booking confirmation and any cash for extras like photos or snacks.
*Any shoe with a back strap or that wraps around the heel. Examples include crocs (in sports mode), sandals (with a back strap), old runners and reef shoes. If you do not have suitable shoes, they can be hired from us for $5 per pair. This can be arranged in advance by calling our Office, or on the day with our Guides. This is in addition to the tour cost.
Tully River Rafting - Do I need rafting experience?
No prior rafting experience is necessary. Guides provide full safety briefings and training. You should have enthusiasm for white water adventure.
Tully River Rafting - Who can join this tour?
Participants must be at least 13 years old. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. For everyone’s safety, all Tully River rafting participants must be capable swimmers and able to understand safety briefings in English. Our River Guides will assess English comprehension at pick‑up. If you are unable to understand instructions well enough to participate safely, you will not be able to join the tour. Refunds are not available in this situation. Rafting is not suitable for expectant mothers.
Tully River Rafting - How long is the tour?
This is a full day adventure. With transfers, rafting, breaks and a meal included, set aside about 10–12 hours for the experience.
Tully River Rafting - What level of fitness do I need?
Moderate to high fitness level needed. Guests will paddle for around 2.5 to 3 hours on the river and help carry the raft after the tour. Swimming skills are required, and life jackets are provided and must be worn throughout the adventure.
Tully River Rafting - Is transport included?
Return transfers from selected pickup locations are included if you select that option when booking. Self-drive is also an option if you prefer. If self-driving, please note you need to be at the meeting location at 12.55pm. This is at the Golden Gumboot (a landmark) in Tully, the corner of Hort and Butler Street in Tully.
Tully River Rafting - Is safety equipment provided?
Yes. Helmets, life jackets and all necessary safety equipment are provided. Guides are experienced and focus on keeping you safe while you enjoy the rapids.
Tully River Rafting - What happens if the weather changes?
Tours operate in most weather conditions. If extreme weather or unsafe river levels occur, you will be contacted to discuss rescheduling or alternative options.
Tully River Rafting - Are meals included?
Yes. A meal at a local country-style pub or similar is included as part of the Tully rafting experience after you’ve finished on the river.
Tully River Rafting - Can non-swimmers join?
No. For everyone’s safety all Tully River rafting participants must be capable swimmers and be able to understand safety briefings in English. Our River Guides will assess English comprehension at pick‑up. If you are unable to understand instructions well enough to participate safely, you will not be able to join the tour. Refunds are not available in this situation.
Tully River Rafting - Where do I meet for the tour?
Meeting points and times depend on whether you choose transfers from Cairns, Mission Beach, or Tully. Details will be confirmed after booking.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours
Our Port Douglas rafting tours deliver an epic half day adventure on the beautiful Barron River. Expect an exciting mix of grade 3 rapids balanced with calmer stretches where you can relax, float and take in the scenery.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Can I book this today?
Yes – the Port Douglas Rafting Tours have an afternoon departure*, so pending availability it can be booked in the morning on the day of travel. There’s the option to include return transfers* from Port Douglas or choose the self-drive option. This tour includes roughly 2 hours of rafting on the Barron River with all equipment, training and a professional river guide. Minimum age to participate is 12 years and participants under 18 must be with a responsible adult. No prior rafting experience is required.
*If you book the transfers, pick-up times from Port Douglas commence at 1.45pm. If you self-drive you must be at the designated meeting point at 3pm.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - What should I bring?
Wear swimwear under your clothes and secure footwear with heel straps*. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, sunscreen, water and your booking voucher. Leave valuables at your accommodation.
*Any shoe with a back strap or that wraps around the heel. Examples include crocs (in sports mode), sandals (with a back strap), old runners and reef shoes. If you do not have suitable shoes, they can be hired from us for $5 per pair. This can be arranged in advance by calling our Office, or on the day with our Guides. This is in addition to the tour cost.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Do I need to have rafting experience to participate?
No rafting experience is needed. Guides will show you everything you need to know for a safe and fun trip.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - What age limits are there?
You must be at least 12 years old to join this tour. Those under 18 must travel with a responsible guardian.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - How long is the tour?
The rafting itself is about 2 hours. With transfers and briefing included, allow up to about 5.5 hours for the full Port Douglas Rafting experience.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Is transport included?
Yes. Return transfers from Port Douglas accommodation are included if you select that option when booking. A self-drive option is also available.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Is safety gear provided?
All safety gear including helmets and life jackets is provided and included in your tour. Guides are trained and focused on safety throughout the experience.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - What if the weather changes?
Tours operate in most weather conditions. If river levels or weather make rafting unsafe, we will contact you prior to departure with options to reschedule or alternative experiences.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Can non-swimmers join?
Yes. The Barron River rafting sections include calmer stretches as well as rapids, and guides will support you throughout the tour. However confidence around water is recommended.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Is rafting suitable for families?
Yes. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity for those 12 and over. Watch the river scenery and rainforest surroundings as you travel through the gorge. Please note this tour is not suitable for expectant mothers.
Port Douglas Rafting Tours - Where do I meet for the tour?
Pickup details and meeting times are confirmed after you book. If self-driving, you will meet at the designated start point at Lake Placid, which is at the car park at 101 Lake Placid Road. Our team will meet you at the carpark – please wait with your vehicle.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers
Our Cairns tubing tours are half day adventures in rainforest rivers. Float down a beautiful waterway, with small rapids and big views. Best way to immerse yourself in your natural surroundings.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - Can I book this today?
Yes – the Cairns River Tubing Tours have a morning and afternoon departure*, so pending availability it can be booked on the day of travel. You can choose to include return transfers from Cairns and selected Northern Beaches accommodation, or self-drive to the tour starting point.
*Pick-ups for the morning tour start at 6.45am; pick-ups for the afternoon tour commence at 1.35pm. The experience includes all equipment, safety briefing and a relaxed float down scenic sections of the Barron River.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - What should I bring?
Wear swimwear, bring a towel, sunscreen and secure footwear* that can get wet. Bring a refillable water bottle and a change of clothes for after the tour. Take your booking confirmation and personal items as needed.
*Any shoe with a back strap or that wraps around the heel. Examples include crocs (in sports mode), sandals (with a back strap), old runners and reef shoes. If you do not have suitable shoes, they can be hired from us for $5 per pair. This can be arranged in advance by calling our Office, or on the day with our Guides. This is in addition to the tour cost.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - Do I need experience to participate?
No experience is necessary. River tubing is a gentle, scenic activity suitable for many abilities and this tour is designed to be accessible and fun for most people. Guides will brief you on safety and river etiquette before you depart.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - How long is the tour?
The Cairns River Tubing Tour runs for about half a day, including transfers, briefing and tubing time on the river. Expect around 4 to 5 hours from pickup to drop-off.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - Is transport included?
Yes. Return transfers from Cairns City and selected Northern Beaches accommodation are included when you choose that option on booking. Self-drive is also available.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - Is safety equipment provided?
All necessary equipment including tubes and safety gear is provided. Guides will support you throughout the experience and ensure a safe journey down the river.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - What if the weather changes?
Tours operate in most conditions. If river levels or unsafe weather conditions occur, we will contact you prior to departure to discuss options to reschedule or choose an alternative experience.
Cairns Tubing Tours Rainforest Rivers - Can non-swimmers join?
Yes. River tubing is suitable for confident non-swimmers, but comfort in water and following guide instructions is important.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour
A must do for anyone wanting to engage with Traditional Owners on country, experience pristine rainforest, cascading waterfalls, crater lakes and stunning panoramas of Queensland’s highest peaks.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Can I book this tour today?
Yes. You can book this tour today for a future date. It’s a full day experience with pick-ups commencing from 7.30am. For tours departing today, see these other great Cairns Adventure Group tours:
- Barron River Rafting – Afternoon Tour
- Rainforest River Tubing – Half Day Tour with Morning and Afternoon Departures
- Cairns Jet Boat Tours – 50 Minute Tour, Departing 10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm
- Cairns Sightseeing Cruise – 75 Minute Tour, Departing 10.45am, 1pm and 3.15pm
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes and a refillable water bottle. A change of clothes is recommended for after the waterfalls. We also suggest you bring a warm jacket, it can get cold in the mountains, especially after swimming.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - What should I wear?
You should wear bathers / swimsuit under light sun protective clothing. We suggest avoiding heavy materials such as denim. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, noting that access to Josephine Falls involves a 700 metre sealed rainforest walk each way.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - What fitness level do I need to have?
This tour is suitable for most fitness levels. There are short, gentle walks to viewing platforms and swimming spots. Guides will support you throughout.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Guests of all ages are welcome, including infants and children with the following notes regarding ages.
- Guests 11yrs and younger: Must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian whilst on tour. Guardians can be anyone accompanying the minor who is 18 years or older.
- Guests 12yrs – 17yrs (inclusive) travelling without a Parent/Guardian: Must meet with the Trip Leader/ Senior Staff Member at the arranged meeting/ pick-up location with their Parent/ Guardian. If the Trip Leader/ Senior Staff Member deems the minor is unfit/ unsuitable to travel solo, they reserve the right to deny travel.
- Guests 17yrs and younger: Must have an Indemnity Waiver/ Tour Check-in completed prior to the start of the tour, signed by their Parent/ Guardian.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - How long is the tour?
This is a full-day tour with scenic stops at multiple waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands and rainforest regions. You should allow a full day from pick-up to drop-off. Pick-ups commence at 6.45am.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Is transport included?
Yes. Return transfers from Cairns City and selected Northern Beaches and Port Douglas accommodation are included when you choose that option at booking.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Is food included?
Yes, a light morning and afternoon tea is provided and included. This is usually tea, coffee and biscuits. Lunch is provided and included: A buffet lunch. The lunch menu has options for Vegans and Vegetarians. Dietary requirements must be advised at the time of booking.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Can we swim at the waterfalls?
Yes. There are swim stops at selected locations where you can cool off in designated areas. Always follow guide instructions for safety around water.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - What if the weather changes?
Tours operate in most weather conditions. If extreme weather or unsafe conditions occur, we will contact you prior to departure with options to reschedule or discuss alternatives.
Cairns Waterfalls Tour - Are guides provided?
Yes. Your guide will accompany you throughout the day, offering local insight, safety direction and commentary on the region’s history and features.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour
Cairns jetboating tours are fast, fun and suitable for everyone over 1.1m tall. Please allow *50 minutes for the tour, which includes the 35 minute jetboat ride. Departs from Marlin Marina.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - Can I book this today?
Yes – You can book the Cairns Jetboat Tour for travel today. There’s 4 daily departure times: 10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm. This tour is fast, fun and perfect for anyone over 1.1m tall. The highlight of this 50-minute adventure is the 35-minute jetboat ride. Departs from Marlin Marina. We encourage guests to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their tour departure time.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - What should I bring?
Wear sunscreen and apply it before check-in please. Bring a towel for after the ride. We have a small storage and while we aim to take great care of your belongings they are left at the wharf at your own risk.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - What should I wear?
We recommend wearing light, sun-protective clothing and shoes (thongs are ok) that you are happy to get wet. We discourage wearing denims or clothes made from other heavy materials. A locker box is available for your use at check-in.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - Will I get wet?
Yes….absolutely! So bring a towel to dry off after the ride. A locker box is provided for storage, during the ride.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - Who can join this tour?
Our jetboat rides are designed to be fun and inclusive. Some movement and water spray are involved, and safety is our top priority. There is no minimum age to participate; however, children need to be at least 1.1m tall (without shoes on). Expectant mothers are not permitted to go Jetboating.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - How long is the experience?
The actual jet boat ride is 35 minutes, and you should allow about 50 minutes total including check-in and safety briefing.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - Is safety gear provided?
Life jackets are fitted to all guests prior to the activity. All guests are also provided with glasses to wear on the trip.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - What will we see?
The tour travels through mangrove forests, around the Cairns waterfront and past scenic waterways of Trinity Inlet. Captains share local stories and may point out wildlife and features of the inlet.
Cairns Jet Boat Tour - Can I bring my camera?
Because of water spray and ride dynamics, it’s best to leave loose electronics secured or at your accommodation. Photo and video packages taken by the crew may be available for purchase afterwards.
Daintree Rainforest Tour
Meet Traditional Owners, swim at Mossman Gorge, cruise the Daintree River and experience a multitude of landscapes, from forest to mangroves and beaches.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - Can I book this tour today?
Yes. You can book this tour today for a future date. It’s a full day experience with pick-ups commencing from 7am. For tours departing today, see these other great Cairns Adventure Group tours:
- Barron River Rafting – Afternoon Tour
- Rainforest River Tubing – Half Day Tour with Morning and Afternoon Departures
- Cairns Jet Boat Tours – 50 Minute Tour, Departing 10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm
- Cairns Sightseeing Cruise – 75 Minute Tour, Departing 10.45am, 1pm and 3.15pm
Daintree Rainforest Tour - What should I bring?
A small day bag with the following items: hat, swimwear, sunscreen, towel, your ticket, insect repellent and money for additional drinks and snacks.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Guests of all ages are welcome, including infants and children with the following notes regarding ages.
- Guests 11yrs and younger: Must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian whilst on tour. Guardians can be anyone accompanying the minor who is 18 years or older.
- Guests 12yrs – 17yrs (inclusive) travelling without a Parent/Guardian: Must meet with the Trip Leader/ Senior Staff Member at the arranged meeting/ pick-up location with their Parent/ Guardian. If the Trip Leader/ Senior Staff Member deems the minor is unfit/ unsuitable to travel solo, they reserve the right to deny travel.
- Guests 17yrs and younger: Must have an Indemnity Waiver/ Tour Check-in completed prior to the start of the tour, signed by their Parent/ Guardian.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - How long is the tour?
This is a full day experience, typically departing early morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening. Exact times are confirmed after booking.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - Is transport included?
Yes. Return transfers from Cairns City, selected Northern Beaches accommodation and Port Douglas are included when you select that option during booking. Other transport included in the tour price is coach transfers at Mossman Gorge and a Daintree River Wildlife Cruise.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - What will we see and do?
This tour visits the iconic Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation and Mossman Gorge. You’ll enjoy guided rainforest walks, wildlife spotting, a Daintree River Cruise, lookout stops, time on the beach and opportunities to explore this World Heritage area.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - Can I swim on this tour?
Yes. There are opportunities for swimming at Mossman Gorge. Always follow your guide’s instructions for safety.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - What if it rains?
The Daintree can be wet at times and rain only adds to the rainforest atmosphere. Tours generally operate in most weather conditions. If extreme weather threatens safety, we will contact you to discuss options.
Daintree Rainforest Tour - Are guides provided?
Yes. Experienced guides accompany you throughout the day, sharing local knowledge on flora, fauna, culture and history.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour
Meet Traditional Owners, swim at Mossman Gorge, cruise the Daintree River, zipline through the Daintree Rainforest and explore the Great Barrier Reef. Experience a multitude of landscapes, from forest to mangroves and beaches, coral gardens and sand cays.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - Can I book this tour today?
Yes. You can book this tour today for a future date. It’s a full day experience with pick-ups commencing from 7am. For tours departing today, see these other great Cairns Adventure Group tours:
- Barron River Rafting – Afternoon Tour
- Rainforest River Tubing – Half Day Tour with Morning and Afternoon Departures
- Cairns Jet Boat Tours – 50 Minute Tour, Departing 10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3pm
- Cairns Sightseeing Cruise – 75 Minute Tour, Departing 10.45am, 1pm and 3.15pm
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - What should I bring?
While this is an overnight tour, there’s no luggage storage on the bus, so you should pack light and bring everything you need in a small day / overnight bag. We recommend bringing:
- Swimwear (Mossman Gorge & Reef Trip)
- Enclosed shoes (Ziplining)
- Phone/GoPro strap/ lanyard (Ziplining)
- Eco-friendly sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Warm clothing (May–Nov)
- Hat
- Small day bag (for the Reef Trip)
- Camera (waterproof case recommended for Reef Trip)
- Money for drinks, snacks, Day 1 dinner and Day 2 meals
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - Who is this tour suitable for?
Our overnight Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, and Great Barrier Reef tour is designed for adults and welcomes guests of all abilities. While some areas have uneven paths or stairs, many spots are suitable for limited mobility. Minimum age to participate is 18 years old.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - How long is the tour?
This is a 2 day, 1 night experience exploring the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Cape Tribulation and the Great Barrier Reef. You stay overnight at Cape Tribulation and accommodation is included in the tour price.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - Are meals included?
Lunch is included on Day 1. You will need to purchase dinner on Day 1 and breakfast and lunch on Day 2. This is in addition to the tour price.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - Can I snorkel on the reef?
Yes. Reef snorkelling is part of the itinerary, and equipment is provided. Basic swimming ability is recommended for snorkelling. Flotation jackets and noodles are available.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - What if the weather changes? What if it's raining?
The Daintree can be wet at times and rain only adds to the rainforest atmosphere. Tours generally operate in most weather conditions. If extreme weather threatens safety, we will contact you to discuss options.
Overnight Daintree Rainforest and Reef Tour - Are guides provided?
Yes. Experienced guides accompany you during the majority of the tour, offering local insight, interpretive commentary and support throughout the day. The guides are not with you for the overnight component of the itinerary.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours
Sit back and relax on our Cairns sightseeing cruise. A 75 minute, fully guided adventure cruise in Trinity Inlet. Departs from Marlin Marina and takes take you into the mangroves, for wildlife watching.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - Can I book this today?
Yes – You can book the Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours for travel today (pending availability). There’s 3 daily departure times: 10.45am, 1pm and 3.15pm. This 75-minute guided sightseeing cruise through Cairns’ Trinity Inlet is perfect for nature lovers. Departs from Marlin Marina. We encourage guests to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their tour departure time.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen and sunglasses), your camera and money to purchase additional drinks. NB: 1 x complimentary soft drink or water is included in the tour price.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - Who is this tour suitable for?
This relaxing boat cruise is suitable for guests of all abilities, with calm waters and comfortable seating. Boarding involves a few steps—please contact us in advance if you need assistance. Anyone under 18 years of age must travel with a responsible guardian or adult. All are welcome.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - How long are the cruises?
This is a 75-minute tour, which starts and ends at Cairns’ Marlin Marina.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - What will I see on the cruise?
Sightseeing cruises showcase the scenic waterways, harbour and coastal scenery around Cairns. Commentary from your crew highlights points of interest and local stories.
Cairns Sightseeing Boat Tours - What if the weather changes?
Cruises operate in most conditions. If weather or sea conditions make it unsafe, we’ll contact you before departure to discuss rescheduling or alternatives.
Cairns Boat Hire
Half day or full day hire rates. Fuel included. No boat license required. You must be 18+ to drive. Option to also hire bait, tackle, BBQs and a skipper. Pontoon boats carry maximum of 8 passengers, tinny boats can take 4 passengers.
Cairns Boat Hire - Can I book this today?
Yes – our Cairns Boat Hire has half day and full day booking options, so pending pending availability and the time of inquiry, this can be booked on the day of travel. The morning session is 8am – 12pm; the afternoon session is 12.30pm – 4.30pm. The full day hire is 8am – 4.30pm.
Cairns Boat Hire - Do I need a boat licence?
No – you don’t need a marine licence to drive, but you must be at least 18 years of age. Information on boat handling and the waterway will be provided to you, prior to departure. If you prefer you can hire one of our Skippers to accompany you on your cruise, at a rate of $50 per hour in addition to the boat hire rate. This service must be pre-booked and is subject to availability. Please note that the driver / hirer must always keep the hire boat within the designated area of operation in Trinity Inlet; a map will be provided at check-in.
Cairns Boat Hire - Where do we pick up and return the boat?
The boats are collected from and must be returned to Wharf A, Marlin Marina Cairns (which is adjacent to the Reef Fleet Terminal). Check-in is 15 minutes prior to your booked departure time. Anyone under 18 years of age must travel with a responsible guardian or adult.
Cairns Boat Hire - Where can I operate the boats?
You can operate the boats within the designated area of operation, in Cairns’ stunning Trinity Inlet. At check-in our crew provide a briefing and map of this area. The tidal estuary is abundant in wildlife and fish including mangrove jack, estuary cod and barramundi. It’s a great location for fishing, sightseeing and enjoying the great outdoors! For more information on the Trinity Inlet please visit www.wetlandinfo.des.qld.gov.au
Cairns Boat Hire - Can I take the boat to the reef?
No, you must remain in the designated area of operation in Trinity Inlet. We do not hire boats suitable for heading out to the reef, or offshore islands including Fitzroy and Green Island. Our boats operate within the very large and diverse Trinity Inlet and you will be supplied an area of operation map clearly marking out the area you can navigate at check in.
Cairns Boat Hire - Is safety gear and briefing provided?
Life jackets and safety briefings are provided.
Cairns Boat Hire - How many people can the boats take?
Options include 4 passenger tinnies and pontoon boats up to 8 passengers (capacity depends on boat type).
Cairns Boat Hire - What should I bring?
A hat, sun block, insect repellent, sunglasses, a smile on your dial and camera. At least one person should have a mobile phone, in case you need to contact us. You are welcome to BYO drinks and snacks, rods and bait, ice and esky (or we can prepare and provide that for you, with some great packages available). Children under 12 are required to wear a life jacket, these are supplied to you. Be aware that you will not always be fully shaded from the sun so you may also need other sun protection as well.
Cairns Boat Hire - Can I bring my own tackle/bait/fishing gear?
Yes of course! If you do not have your own gear, we have a range of equipment available for hire. For more information, check out our Fishing Packages.
Cairns Boat Hire - What can I add on to my hire?
We have a range of fantastic Fishing Packages you can choose from, all designed to allow you to reel in the good times, with less work and more fun. These packages are perfect for families and friends on holidays, celebrating a birthday or just keen to spend some time on the water. Options include Fishing Gear (rods, bait, esky & ice); Fishing Gear & a Standard BBQ pack; Fishing Gear & a Deluxe BBQ pack.
Cairns Boat Hire - What happens if the weather changes?
If we deem the weather to be unsuitable for boating, we will offer you the opportunity to reschedule or receive a refund. This decision will be made on the morning of your departure so please contact our office between 8am and 9am for an update. If you want to cancel your booking, then you must provide at least 24 hours notice to Cairns Boat Hire, failure to do so will result in full payment being due.
Cairns Boat Hire - Are there any accessible boats?
We offer an accessible 8 person pontoon boat available for full and half day hire. Boat Hire is self-guided and if assistance is required, it may take up to 1hr (depending on location) for a staff member to reach the guests. Guests should come prepared with any resources/ medications they may need and ensure guests travelling with them are able to provide care if needed.
Cairns Boat Hire - Can we swim off the boat?
No. Trinity Inlet is a very active saltwater crocodile environment and marine stingers may also be present. It is very dangerous to swim here. Please ensure you stay on the boat at all times.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise
Our Cairns sunset cruise takes in the sights of the Cairns waterfront and exploring the tributaries of Trinity Inlet, as the sun slides behind the rainforest mountains and the city lights start to twinkle.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - Can I book this tour today?
Yes – You can book the Cairns Sunset Cruise for travel today (pending availability). The Sunset Cruise departs at 5.15pm. We encourage guests to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their tour departure time.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - What is included?
This 90-minute cruise includes a scenic journey through Trinity Inlet and along the Cairns waterfront, an informative commentary by your captain, one complimentary beer, wine or soft drink, and a light savoury snack.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothes.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - Who is this tour suitable for?
This relaxing Trinity Inlet sunset cruise is suitable for guests of all abilities, with calm waters and comfortable seating. Boarding involves a few steps—please contact us in advance if you need assistance. Anyone under 18 years of age must travel with a responsible guardian or adult. Children aged 2 and under may sit on a parent’s lap; children over 2 require their own seat.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - What will I see?
Enjoy calm water views, mangrove channels of Trinity Inlet, the city skyline aglow at sunset, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as birds and other estuarine species.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - What if the weather changes?
The cruise operates in most weather conditions. If conditions are unsafe, we will contact you before departure to discuss rescheduling or alternatives.
Cairns Sunset Boat Cruise - Does this cruise include dinner?
No BUT you can choose to upgrade your booking to include a three-course waterfront dinner at the award-winning Ochre Restaurant as part of a combined Sunset Cruise and dining package. Coastal Table Sunset Package = cruise plus 3 course dinner at the renowned Ochre Restaurant.