Getting ashore
Cairns is one of Australia’s busiest cruise ports. The cruise terminal on Wharf 2/3 sits in the heart of the city, so downtown is an easy walk. Up to two large ships can berth along Wharves 1 to 5. Some of the biggest ships cannot use the narrow channel and anchor instead, so you may tender in. Your ship’s notice will tell you which applies.
Watch-outs
Cairns is a launch point for the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree and the rainforest, and every one of these is a long day out. The reef trips from the marina are the most popular, and sea conditions can cancel them. Check the sea forecast with your tour operator before you book. Sun is strong all year, so bring sunscreen and a hat, and carry water on tours.
Into town
The city centre is small and covered on foot. The Esplanade and the Lagoon are a short walk from the terminal. Taxis wait at the terminal, and the airport is about 8 km away, with a regulated fare of around AUD 16 to 20 by taxi.
Reef and islands
Reef trips leave from the marina and take you to outer reef sites such as Michaelmas Cay and the sites on the outer reef. Choose a trip that matches your swimming ability, and check whether the price includes snorkelling gear and a briefing. Glass-bottom boat and helicopter options also operate, with different prices and times.
Kuranda and the rainforest
The Kuranda Scenic Railway climbs through the rainforest to the village of Kuranda, with a stop at Barron Falls. The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway gives an aerial trip over the canopy. Many visitors combine the two, one up and one down. Check the last return times before you leave for the day.
Port Douglas and the Daintree
Port Douglas is about an hour north by road, and the Daintree is a further hour. Both are popular as a day out with a guide. Ship-run excursions are the simplest option. Self-drive is possible, but the roads are long and the driving is slow in places.
Food & shopping
Cairns has a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and seafood, with the esplanade and Lake Street the main eating areas. Shops in the centre open for a full day, though many close in the evening.
Accessibility & mobility
The terminal and the centre are flat and step-free, which makes the port one of the easier ones to get around. Reef boats involve a gangway and a step down to the deck, so check with the operator for a boat with step access. Kuranda's railway and cableway have ramps and a level platform, but the forest tracks do not.