10.2 hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Cairns for around 10.2 hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.
Tours & Experiences in Cairns
30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners
Full-day Tour at the Atherton Tablelands with Food Tasting
This tour is so much more than a tasting tour!
A full day exploring this diverse region heading west of Cairns is a plateau rising from 400 metres to 1200 metres above sea level on the Great Dividing Range, the Atherton Tablelands.
Offering a full comprehensive guided tour visiting ten different locations in one day. We offer an interactive tour with wildlife, nature, history, culture and food. Our guide's experience and knowledge within the Wet Tropics Region deliver interesting and fascinating facts on tour. The tours are personable and intimate enhancing every traveler's experience. Visiting a number of National Parks, local produces, a nature park, and waterfalls while traversing across some of the most scenic natural landscapes in Far North Queensland.
We travel in a comfortable modern Toyota Hiace.
Please be sure to specify any special requirements for mobility and dietary as we will always do our best to accommodate all our passengers.
Free cancellation
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Private Cape Tribulation & Mossman Gorge Day Tour
Explore the World Heritage–listed Daintree Rainforest on this private 12-hour tour from Cairns. Traveling in a private air-conditioned vehicle with a naturalist guide, you'll visit Daintree National Park and its natural attractions such as Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation. Discover the lush landscapes of what is most likely the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth, check out the town of Port Douglas, take a ferry ride across the Daintree River, and more.
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4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef
Take the opportunity to learn to dive while you’re in Cairns! With classes limited to eight participants, led by professional and friendly instructors, you’ll learn to dive and earn an internationally recognized PADI certification on your 4-day PADI Open Water dive course. Hotel transfers are included each day, and your course is gradual and safe. Learn basic scuba skills in the classroom, a pool, and confined water dives, then explore the Great Barrier Reef on open-water dives. Once you have successfully completed your course, you’ll be a qualified PADI diver!
Free cancellation
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Mountain Bike Tour - Cairns
If you are a keen cyclist you can't miss the opportunity to tour this area with our experienced guide, showing you all the beauty of the area.
Tropical North Queensland has a bounty of amazing mountain-bike parks but for sheer recognition one name stands above them all – Smithfield.
This iconic rainforest trail network is the oldest mountain-bike park in the country,
this world-famous facility offers more than 60km of green, blue and black-rated trails that twist through spectacular vine-clad jungle, over clear-flowing streams and along jagged ridges that overlook the Great Barrier Reef.
Free cancellation
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Private Half Day Tour: World Heritage Rainforest & Waterfall
Do you want to have your own private tour guide and vehicle all to yourself? Exclusive half day tour takes in three Wet Tropics Rainforest National Parks, and includes a visit to the most famous waterfall in Cairns, the Barron Falls. You’ll see stunning scenery, ranging from lush tropical rainforest to outback Savannah. Visit mighty trees, swim in crystal clear waters. If you have limited time, want to escape the crowds and experience the true tropical rainforest of North Queensland, book this tour today.
Please note: the departure times are 7.00 am and 1.00pm, you can change the pick up time to suit but the return time is still 12.00 and 6.00pm
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Small Group Waterfall Wetlands+ Skyrail All Inclusive from Cairns
Get ready for a day filled with natural wonders, cultural discovery and great food as you embark on a guided Waterfall, Wetlands and Skyrail adventure from Cairns! Embrace the tranquility of Cattana Wetlands as you meander through the enchanting feather palm forest and past reflective Jabiru Lake, on a driver-guided walk.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you witness the awe-inspiring Barron Falls, guided by a Djabugay cultural ranger who will share knowledge on this Make Travel Matter® experience.
Indulge in a delectable lunch, coffee and coffee liqueur tasting at Skybury Coffee plantation and delight your tastebuds again, at Emerald Creek Ice Creamery where you can savor the most heavenly locally produced ice cream creations.
To complete your day embark on an unforgettable Skyrail Rainforest Cableway journey. As you soar above and through the magnificent World Heritage Listed rainforest, prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer beauty that surrounds you.
Free cancellation
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Ancient Egypt Night Tour
Explore ancient Egypt's mysteries on a guided night tour of Tomb of the Pharaohs in the heart of Cairns.
This exclusive experience offers an incredible insight into the 3,000 year history of ancient Egypt while walking through the recreated tombs of the Pharaohs and their Queens. Learn about the daily rituals and funerary practices of the ancient Egyptians.
- 1.5-hour guided tour wit exclusive after-hours access to the Tomb of the Pharaohs
- Discover 11 burial chambers and learn about ancient Egyptian funerary practices
Free cancellation
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Tomb of the Pharaohs and Cairns Aquarium Combo
Discover Two Worlds in One Day: Tomb of the Pharaohs & Cairns Aquarium
Immerse yourself in two unforgettable experiences in the heart of Cairns. Step back in time at the Tomb of the Pharaohs, where you’ll explore life-sized recreations of 11 ancient Egyptian tombs, complete with detailed hieroglyphics, burial treasures, and over 450 museum-quality replicas. Then, dive into the wonders of Tropical North Queensland at the Cairns Aquarium, home to over 16,000 marine creatures from the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding ecosystems. From mummies to marine life, this unique cultural and natural journey is perfect for families, history lovers, and curious explorers alike—all within walking distance in the city center.
Free cancellation
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10 minute City Scenic Flight
The most affordable way to get the thrill of a helicopter scenic flight over the beautiful city of Cairns.
Free cancellation
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Private Daintree Wanderer Tour
Join a private tour to the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Led by a local and knowledgeable guide, this tour includes a 1-hour crocodile cruise along the Daintree River, morning tea in the rainforest, lunch including beer wine or soft drink, a visit to Cape Tribulation Beach and the Daintree Ice Cream Company.
Free cancellation
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45 Minute Reef and Rainforest Flight
This tour combines the best elements of the reef and rainforest. Starting with the reef we fly to Green Island and then explore the local reefs, including the beautiful Vlasoff Sand Cay. We then track to Palm Cove and climb up to 2,500 feet as we glide over the Great Dividing Range on our way to Kuranda - the village in the rainforest. We then track down the Barron Gorge, home of the immense Barron Falls, before tracking back to Cairns Airport with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Free cancellation
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Private Transfers Cairns Airport to Port Douglas
Exemplar is renowned in the region as the expert in airport transfers. Since 1993 we have offered award winning services across a range of services . We offer several Private Transfer options for the discerning traveller. These range from limousines, seven seater People Movers to the larger 20 seaters and our Silver Service for that very special occasion. Our customer service is renowned and highly regarded, with many trying to imitate, but none able to replicate.We know that whatever service you book with Exemplar you won't be disappointed,
Free cancellation
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Ancient Egypt Sunset Tour
Explore ancient Egypt's mysteries on a guided sunset tour of Tomb of the Pharaohs in the heart of Cairns.
This exclusive experience offers an incredible insight into the 3,000 year history of ancient Egypt while walking through the recreated tombs of the Pharaohs and their Queens. Learn about the daily rituals and funerary practices of the ancient Egyptians.
- 1.5-hour guided tour wit exclsuive after-hours access to the Tomb of the Pharaohs
- Discover 11 burial chambers and learn about ancient Egyptian funerary practices
- Optional 3 course Egyptian themed dinner at our onsite Squires Loft Cairns aquatic themed restaurant (Child menu is 2 Course)
Free cancellation
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Wunyami Cultural Tour on Green Island's Eco Adventure
Our Wunyami Cultural Tours on Green Island delve into indigenous culture, weaving ancestral stories into the island's land and sea. Led by indigenous guides, these tours share saltwater legends and broader Great Barrier Reef narratives. They aim to raise awareness and foster understanding of Green Island's indigenous history and culture. Through collaboration with elders and young leaders, the tours offer authentic insights, providing a career pathway for the indigenous community while instilling respect and honour. These tours are a vital part of Green Island's cultural learning, highlighting the significance of indigenous heritage. The Cairns to Green Island Ferry (travel time approximately 45 minutes) offers up to 7 hours to explore Wunyami (Green Island) at your own pace. Snorkel equipment or glass-bottom boat tours are included and you can purchase lunch on the Island. Recommended items include swimwear, sun protection, and spending money.
Adult: A$185.00
Child: A$98.00
Free cancellation
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1 Hour Jetski Tour Cairns
Experience the thrill of jet skiing in Cairns with no license or experience needed! Join a guided tour with Terra Marine and blast through the stunning Trinity Inlet – choose a quick 30-minute ride through open waterways, go all out on the full 1-hour adventure through shipwrecks and mangroves, or spot saltwater crocodiles and native birds on our unique 1-hour Croc Spotting tour. Speed, scenery, and wild nature – all in one unforgettable experience.
Please note: You can book a solo jetski (1 person) or tandem jetski (2 people). If you need more than 1 jetski for your group, you'll need to make separate bookings.
Drivers must be 16+
Passengers must be 8+
A minimum age of 18 is required for drivers taking a passenger.
Free cancellation
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Cassowary Coast Goondoi Culture Tour
We are Ecotourism Australia certified supporting Goondoi Culture Tours in their commitment in conservation of the lands and Great Barrier Reef. Working together for a sustainable future for the community, culture and country. Your guides are experienced with a deep passion and diverse scope of knowledge in history, the wet tropics rainforest and culture. This is a tour for people wanting an immersive experience to disconnect from their life and engage in a day exploring the wet tropics rainforest and learning about Australia's first people and their culture.
Free cancellation
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60 minute Reef and Rainforest Scenic Flight
This 60-minute reef scenic helicopter flight is also known as the "pilots favourite". It takes in all the sights from every single one of our shorter duration flights and delivers them in a package that cannot be matched. Sweeping city views, rolling lush rainforest, tableland scenery, waterfalls, islands, reef and sand cays - this flight packs it all in.
Free cancellation
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Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight + Bad Fishy Jet Boating Cairns
Capture incredible bird’s eye view photos and revel in the sun's first light as you float above the beautiful rainforest covered hills in the peace and serenity of a hot air balloon.
Our experienced pilot will fly you over the stunningly lush Atherton Tablelands region for an experience like never before. After we gently touch back down, you’ll enjoy the incredible morning with a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice.
From there our team will deliver you to the Marlin Marina for your next thrilling experience, a 35 minute jet boat ride on the Trinity Inlet. This ride is filled with spins, slides and adrenaline pumping speeds and in between the captain will provide you with some great information on Cairns and the region.
Free cancellation
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From Cairns: Cooktown, Daintree & Outback 3 Day Small-Group Tour
Want to see Atherton Tablelands, Cooktown, the Daintree Rainforest and more in a 3-day tour with everything taken care of? This very small-group tour takes you on an exclusive guided 4WD tour to the Daintree National Park, Cooktown, and the Atherton Tablelands. This tour ticks all the boxes in terms of showing people the best of Far North Queensland! Visit Cooktown and its many surrounding attractions as you learn about this truly amazing ancient area of the world from our very experienced local naturalist guide.
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Skip the Line: Cairns Museum Admission Ticket
Welcome to Cairns Museum – a snapshot of our fascinating, beautiful, dynamic frontier region and its people. Situated in the central business district of Cairns, the air-conditioned Museum’s incredible collection holds the secrets and memories of the people, places, events and changing environment of Far North Queensland.
Learn, play, explore and be excited at Cairns Museum with interactive, engaging and fun displays.
It’s a lively place representing the growth of an energetic and wild tropical region.
After you have finished exploring, take a break on the upstairs verandah, offering views across Cairns’ city centre.
Free cancellation
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60 minute Reef Scenic flight
The Reef Spectucular does exactly what the title says - provides you with one hour of total reef paradise! We leave no stone (or coral) unturned as we explore two vast clusters of reefs. Rays, turtles and sharks are commonly seen on these flights.
There is no better way to experience the vastness and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
Free cancellation
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Barron River Rafting & Waterfall Tour - 2 Tours
Discover the best of Tropical North Queensland over two unforgettable days, combining scenic waterfall exploration with an exciting white water rafting adventure.
On day one, enjoy a relaxed journey through the lush rainforest, visiting beautiful waterfalls and natural swimming spots. Surrounded by tropical landscapes, you’ll have time to swim, explore short walking tracks, and take in the peaceful beauty of the region.
On day two, take on the thrill of white-water rafting on the Barron River. Paddle through fun Grade 2–3 rapids in the stunning setting of Barron Gorge National Park, guided by experienced instructors. Suitable for beginners, this adventure offers the perfect balance of excitement and safety.
River Levy $35 per person - payable on the day for Barron Rafting.
With a mix of relaxation and adrenaline, this two-day experience is ideal for travelers wanting to explore the natural highlights of Tropical North Queensland.
Free cancellation
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Cairns Adventure Package - 4 tours in 3 days!
Dive into the best of Tropical North Queensland with this multi-day adventure package, featuring four unforgettable experiences that blend adrenaline, nature, and culture.
Kick things off with a refreshing river tubing experience, floating through gentle rainforest waterways surrounded by lush greenery. Ramp up the excitement with an afternoon of white-water rafting on the Barron River, where grade 2–3 rapids deliver just the right amount of thrill.
Next, enjoy a scenic tour through the Atherton Tablelands, visiting iconic waterfalls like Millaa Millaa and Josephine Falls, swimming in volcanic crater lakes, soak up the serenity of the Babinda Boulders and visit the Cathedral Fig Tree.
Finally, journey deep into the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Take part in a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony, cruise the Daintree River, and visit the iconic World Heritage Site where the 'Rainforest meets the Reef'.
River Levy - $55AUD per person, payable on the day
Free cancellation
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Cairns Paronella Park Herberton and Wild life Tour
Embark on a full-day adventure from Cairns, exploring Queensland’s historic gems and unique wildlife encounters.
Start your day at 8 a.m. with a journey to Paronella Park, Queensland’s first and only castle. Built in the 1930s by José Paronella, this architectural marvel is set amidst lush gardens, waterfalls, and historical ruins, offering a glimpse into the past.
Next, travel to the Historic Village Herberton, an open-air museum showcasing Queensland’s pioneering era. With over 60 restored buildings, including shops, banks, and war memorabilia, this village provides a captivating look into Australia’s early days.
Wrap up the experience with a visit to Granite Gorge, home to the adorable Mareeba Rock Wallabies. Hand-feed these rare and friendly creatures in their natural habitat while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Led by a local expert guide, this small-group tour (up to six people) ensures a fun, relaxed, and immersive experience.
Free cancellation
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2 Day Daintree Rainforest and Outback Tour
Discover two incredible Australian landscapes from Cairns, Beaches and Port Douglas. Over two days you will experience the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, where the rainforest meets the reef and explore the Chillagoe Caves, Granite Gorge and other gems of the Australian Outback.
This tour is a small personalised tour with custom-built 4WD vehicles. Your naturalist driver-guide has extensive knowledge of flora, fauna, history of the area and aboriginal culture. Your day will be a memory of a lifetime!
Free cancellation
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Kuranda Day Tour, TKS-RFS CLASSIC GOLD PLUS 0930
Small tour operator - that means you get the best service/attention.
SE Asian language abilities and understanding customers culture and background.
Packaged tour means you save time and money.
Drinking water bottle for all customers.
Not much people on board that means we are quick and don't waste time picking many customers from many places.
Local Tour Guide and the ability to speak your local language if you are from Asia and SE Asian countries.
Guest customer service.
All tours are subject to change,price,availbility, weather conditions & cancellations by the operators.
Free cancellation
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Explorer Tour by Cairns Waterfalls
Explore the natural of Tropical North Queensland on a full-day tour from Cairns.
Start your day with a visit to the botanical gardens, immersing yourself in the rich knowledge of the local rainforest.
Next take a savouring scenic drive that winds through tropical landscapes offering glimpses of the region’s diverse serene beauty.
Next, make your way to the enchanting Crystal Cascades, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of this natural oasis, perfect for a rejuvenating swim. After, make your way to Behana Gorge where the mighty Clamshell falls awaits you. Play & relax taking it all in before you continue on to the iconic Welsh’s Pyramid, a striking natural landmark.
Join us for an unforgettable journey experiencing this region’s most spectacular natural wonders that will last a lifetime.
Free cancellation
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Crystals Canyon by Cairns Waterfalls
Experience rappelling, swimming under waterfalls, walking through old, vibrant rainforest while jumping off rocks into the deep fresh crystal clear water...
Super friendly, qualified crew ensure your day is fun filled and ultra safe so your can enjoy the rest of your holidays, & tell of your adventures.
Free cancellation
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Cairns Classic Hot Air Balloon + Lemoncello
Capture incredible bird’s eye view photos and revel in the sun's first light as you float above the beautiful rainforest covered hills in the peace and serenity of a hot air balloon.
Our experienced pilot will fly you over the stunningly lush Atherton Tablelands region for an experience like never before. After we gently touch back down, you’ll enjoy a light snack and toast to the incredible morning with a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice.
After your flight you will be emailed a voucher for a 3 course meal for Lunch or Dinner at Lemoncello's Restaurant
Free cancellation
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30 minute Rainforest Scenic Flight
Extend your Cairns rainforest scenic helicopter flight to 30 minutes and we start this experience by climbing quickly with a clearance to 2,500 ft over the City of Cairns headed West for the Great Dividing Range. Ascending the lush eastern slopes, we arrive over beautiful Lake Morris which attracts an abundance of birdlife to its pristine waters. Passing over Copperlode Dam we’ll track along the range, overflying the Kuranda Scenic Railway at Stoney Creek.
We continue on, flying into the mighty ‘Instagram’ worthy Barron Gorge. Here we’ll gently climb, passing through 1,000 ft over the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and then circle over the Barron Falls and nearby Kuranda rainforest village where the famous Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway begin their return journey back to Cairns. From Kuranda, your Cairns helicopter tour turns for the coast over the lush eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range with views of Double Island, Palm Cove, over Cairns city and out to the Reef.
Free cancellation
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When to Visit Cairns
Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes
Winter Season
Dec – Feb
72,183 estimated passengers across 33 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Spring Season
Mar – May
73,092 estimated passengers across 31 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Summer Season
Jun – Aug
30,207 estimated passengers across 11 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
62,677 estimated passengers across 29 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Cruise Lines Visiting Cairns
12 cruise lines. View full breakdown →
Carnival Cruise Line Cruises (79)
Princess Cruises Cruises (65)
Viking Cruises Cruises (42)
Oceania Cruises Cruises (26)
Azamara Cruises Cruises (16)
Cunard Cruises (14)
Costa Cruises Cruises (10)
P&O Cruises Cruises (10)
Holland America Cruises (8)
Ponant Cruises Cruises (6)
Emerald Cruises Cruises (6)
Scenic Cruises Cruises (4)
Ships Arriving Soon
Next scheduled visits to Cairns
Sun 13 Sep
Carnival Splendor
Carnival Cruise Line Cruises
09:30 – 18:00
Tue 29 Sep
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Cruise Line Cruises
09:30
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