Cairns Cruise Port is one of Australia’s busiest cruise ports, set along the Coral Sea coast in northern Queensland. Located in the heart of Cairns, the port offers easy access to the city center and the Northern Beaches, but it’s also the gateway to the tropical north and the Great Barrier Reef.
Travelers arriving at Cairns Cruise Port can choose from a range of full-day shore excursions. Exploring the islands and coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, either on a catamaran cruise or by helicopter, is popular. Cruises often involve activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or glass-bottom boat rides. Inland adventure options include riding the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, hiking the Barron Gorge National Park, and taking a 4WD excursion in the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest.
If time is limited, opt to spend the day in Cairns instead—head to the Esplanade, where you can stroll the Harbour Walk, swim in the Lagoon, visit the Cairns Regional Art Gallery, and browse the handicraft markets.
The cruise terminal is located at Trinity Wharf in the heart of the city. From the port, it’s about a 10-minute walk north to downtown Cairns and the Esplanade. Larger cruise ships may have to anchor in Yorkeys Knob, north of the city—in which case, shuttle buses will bring you into Cairns.
The official language is English, although the local dialect may differ from British and American English. The local currency is the Australian dollar. There is a tourist information booth, ATM, and currency exchange at the cruise terminal. ATMs are widely available and most shops and restaurants accept credit cards.
