Fitzroy Island Tours, Day Trips & Ferry Tickets

Guided Tours

4.8(0)

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruise

Quick island escape with snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tour options.

Great for Time-conscious travelers, families, and first-time reef explorers.
Everything you get: Return ferry, 2+ hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkeling gear or glass-bottom boat tour, rainforest walks, and air-conditioned base on the vessel.
Why choose this: Perfect for a short but unforgettable adventure with the flexibility to snorkel, relax, or explore at your own pace.
Upgrades: Add both snorkeling gear and a glass-bottom boat tour—or include lunch for the ultimate hassle-free experience.

Quick island escape with snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tour options.

Great for Time-conscious travelers, families, and first-time reef explorers.
Everything you get: Return ferry, 2+ hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkeling gear or glass-bottom boat tour, rainforest walks, and air-conditioned base on the vessel.
Why choose this: Perfect for a short but unforgettable adventure with the flexibility to snorkel, relax, or explore at your own pace.
Upgrades: Add both snorkeling gear and a glass-bottom boat tour—or include lunch for the ultimate hassle-free experience.

Inclusions

Half-day trip to Fitzroy Island
Round-trip ferry transfers from Cairns
Up to 2 hours on Fitzroy Island
Self-guided walk of National Park
Picnic lunch (menu here) (if option selected)
Guided glass-bottomed boat tour (if option selected)
Snorkel Safari with marine biologist (if option selected)
Snorkelling equipment, lycra suits, and flotation vests (if option selected)

Tip: For the best chance to spot turtles and reef sharks, look between the jetty and the large white rock to your far left as you walk towards the island's interior.
Due to island restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Safety is a priority, so the Snorkel Safari is restricted for guests aged under 6 years.
While the ferry is accessible for wheelchairs and prams/strollers, some walk,s including the one to Nudey Beach, can be steep and not suitable.
The glass-bottom boat tour is not accessible by wheelchair.
Children aged under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Surf lifesavers do not monitor or patrol the beaches on Fitzroy Island.
The picnic lunch can be catered to various dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, etc. Guests who book lunch should contact the company to confirm their lunch order at least 24 hours before departure.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Mobile ticket

2 hr. 30 min. - 4 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Guided Tours

NEW

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise

Unwind with 5.5 hours on Fitzroy Island—ample time for trails, snorkeling, and beach bliss.

Great for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to explore Fitzroy Island at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for snorkeling, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun.
Everything you get: Return cruise on an air-conditioned catamaran with onboard reef presentation, 5.5 hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkel gear or glass-bottom boat tour, access to rainforest trails, and use of the vessel as a cool, shaded base throughout your island stay.
Why choose this: More time to explore Fitzroy Island’s best spots without rushing your experience.
Upgrades: Add snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat ride, or lunch for a complete reef adventure.

Unwind with 5.5 hours on Fitzroy Island—ample time for trails, snorkeling, and beach bliss.

Great for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to explore Fitzroy Island at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for snorkeling, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun.
Everything you get: Return cruise on an air-conditioned catamaran with onboard reef presentation, 5.5 hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkel gear or glass-bottom boat tour, access to rainforest trails, and use of the vessel as a cool, shaded base throughout your island stay.
Why choose this: More time to explore Fitzroy Island’s best spots without rushing your experience.
Upgrades: Add snorkel gear, a glass-bottom boat ride, or lunch for a complete reef adventure.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Fitzroy Island
Round-trip ferry transfers from Cairns
Up to 6 hours on Fitzroy Island
Self-guided walk of National Park
Picnic lunch (menu here) (if option selected)
Guided glass-bottomed boat tour (if option selected)
Snorkel Safari with marine biologist (if option selected)
Snorkelling equipment, lycra suits, and flotation vests (if option selected)

Tip: Take the Lighthouse Walk for panoramic views of the reef and the island. Snap a triumphant selfie at the summit—it’s worth the effort!
Due to island restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Safety is a priority, so the Snorkel Safari is restricted for guests aged under 6 years.
While the ferry is accessible for wheelchairs and prams/strollers, some walks, including the one to Nudey Beach, can be steep and not suitable.
The glass-bottom boat tour is not accessible by wheelchair.
Children aged under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
The picnic lunch consists of a fresh wrap, a sandwich, a seasonal fruit piece, a muesli fruit bar, juice, and a bottle of water.
Surf lifesavers do not monitor or patrol the beaches on Fitzroy Island.
Marine stingers are present in tropical waters from November to May. Guests are provided with stinger suits when they rent snorkel gear.
The picnic lunch can be catered to various dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, etc. Guests who book lunch should contact the company to confirm their lunch order at least 24 hours before departure.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

6 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Day Trips

NEW

From Cairns: Best Of Fitzroy Island with Ferry, Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

Differentiator: All-inclusive day trip combining reef snorkeling, island walks, and a premium buffet lunch.
Starting point: Marlin Marina, Cairns
Everything you get: Return cruise on a modern air-conditioned catamaran, 5+ hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkeling gear, a guided glass bottom boat tour with commentary, buffet lunch at Zephyrs Restaurant, and time to explore beaches and walking trails at your leisure.
Sights covered: Snorkel vibrant coral reefs, observe marine life through a glass bottom boat, walk rainforest trails, and relax on Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach.
Why choose this: Save time and money with a bundled package covering all top island experiences.
Upgrades: None—this ticket includes all key experiences in one hassle-free booking.

Differentiator: All-inclusive day trip combining reef snorkeling, island walks, and a premium buffet lunch.
Starting point: Marlin Marina, Cairns
Everything you get: Return cruise on a modern air-conditioned catamaran, 5+ hours on Fitzroy Island, snorkeling gear, a guided glass bottom boat tour with commentary, buffet lunch at Zephyrs Restaurant, and time to explore beaches and walking trails at your leisure.
Sights covered: Snorkel vibrant coral reefs, observe marine life through a glass bottom boat, walk rainforest trails, and relax on Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach.
Why choose this: Save time and money with a bundled package covering all top island experiences.
Upgrades: None—this ticket includes all key experiences in one hassle-free booking.

Inclusions

Return ferry transportation between Cairns and Fitzroy Island
Full day on the island (approximately 5+ hours)
Complete snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit)
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Buffet lunch at the island's restaurant
Sufficient time for beach exploration and walks

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

From Cairns: Fitzroy Island Round Trip Ferry Transfers

Enjoy full flexibility with round-trip ferry transfers for a self-paced Fitzroy Island day trip.

Great for independent travelers looking to plan their own reef adventures.
Everything you get: A 55-minute ferry ride each way aboard a climate-controlled Sunlover catamaran with scenic coastal views. Includes round-trip transport, access to all public areas of Fitzroy Island, and the freedom to explore beaches and trails at your own pace.
Why choose this: The most budget-friendly, build-your-own Fitzroy Island experience with no extras.
Upgrades: Add snorkeling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or both for a customized island adventure.

Enjoy full flexibility with round-trip ferry transfers for a self-paced Fitzroy Island day trip.

Great for independent travelers looking to plan their own reef adventures.
Everything you get: A 55-minute ferry ride each way aboard a climate-controlled Sunlover catamaran with scenic coastal views. Includes round-trip transport, access to all public areas of Fitzroy Island, and the freedom to explore beaches and trails at your own pace.
Why choose this: The most budget-friendly, build-your-own Fitzroy Island experience with no extras.
Upgrades: Add snorkeling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or both for a customized island adventure.

Inclusions

Round-trip ferry transfers from Cairns to Fitzroy Island
Up to 2 hours to spend on the island
Snorkel equipment hire (based on option selected)
Glass-bottom boat tour (based on option selected)

Tip: Arrive early and head straight to the Secret Garden Walk—a serene rainforest trail where you can spot native wildlife and enjoy quiet moments.
This experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

7 hr. 45 min.

Transfers included

Day Trips

NEW

Sunlover: Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Full‑day reef cruise with pontoon activities, island exploration, and lunch.

Great for families and nature lovers seeking an immersive day combining thrilling pontoon water activities and a scenic Fitzroy Island escape.
Everything you get: Air‑conditioned catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, and a premium buffet lunch.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day—with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.

Full‑day reef cruise with pontoon activities, island exploration, and lunch.

Great for families and nature lovers seeking an immersive day combining thrilling pontoon water activities and a scenic Fitzroy Island escape.
Everything you get: Air‑conditioned catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, and a premium buffet lunch.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day—with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef & Fitzroy Island from Cairns
Snorkeling equipment and expert guidance
Premium buffet lunch (menu here)
Self-guided Fitzroy National Park walk
1-hour Snorkel Safari (if option selected)
Seawalker helmet dive (if option selected)
Turtle Rehabilitation Centre talk (if option selected)
Access to Sunlover waterslide & sun deck
Semi-submersible tour
Glass bottom boat tour
Marine naturalist & fish feeding presentation
Underwater observatory

Tip: At Moore Reef, try the semi-submersible tour—it’s like snorkeling without getting wet, offering close-up views of vibrant coral gardens.
This experience is pram/stroller accessible but not accessible by wheelchair.
The semi-submersible tour is subject to weather conditions.
The snorkel safari is not suitable for non-swimmers.
The seawalker helmet dive is a suitable activity for non-swimmers.
The kayak tour requires guests to be able to swim and have moderate fitness capabilities.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Mobile ticket

9 hr. 30 min.

Meals included

Airplane Tours

NEW

From Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef 40‑Minute Scenic Flight

Scenic 40‑minute flight over the Great Barrier Reef with guaranteed window seats.

Great for: Nature lovers and families eager to experience unparalleled aerial views of vibrant reefs, pristine islands, and unique marine life.
Everything you get: 40‑minute flight in a high‑wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats, expert in‑flight commentary, and exceptional photo opportunities.
Why choose this: See the vastness of the 2300-km-long Great Barrier Reef —flying over Green Island, coral gardens, and sand cays.

Scenic 40‑minute flight over the Great Barrier Reef with guaranteed window seats.

Great for: Nature lovers and families eager to experience unparalleled aerial views of vibrant reefs, pristine islands, and unique marine life.
Everything you get: 40‑minute flight in a high‑wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats, expert in‑flight commentary, and exceptional photo opportunities.
Why choose this: See the vastness of the 2300-km-long Great Barrier Reef —flying over Green Island, coral gardens, and sand cays.

Inclusions

40-minute flight over Great Barrier Reef from Cairns
Expert pilot/guide
Headsets
Window seats

Tip: Keep an eye out for marine life during your flight; this is one of the few places where you can spot dugongs, manta rays, and green turtles from above!
The experience is restricted for guests weighing more than 115kg.
This tour can accommodate a maximum of 7 people on the flight.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

40 min.

Plan your cruise to Fitzroy Island

Snorkelers exploring coral reef near Fitzroy Island, glass-bottom boat tour, Cairns day trip experience.

Ferry departures from Cairns are usually scheduled for 8am, 11am, and 1:30pm.
Return ferries from Fitzroy Island usually depart at 12:15pm, 2:15pm, and 5pm.
Full-day tours usually operate on the 8am to 5pm timetable, offering about 5–6 hours on the island.
Arrive at the marina at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in.

Best time to visit

Winter (June to August): This is the best time to visit Fitzroy Island. The skies are sunny, the humidity is low, and the waters are calm and crystal-clear—perfect for snorkeling and exploring the reef. Plus, the marine life is super active, and the visibility underwater is in perfect condition.
Summer (December to February): Expect hot, humid weather and occasional heavy rainfall—this is the tropical wet season. While the island is lush and green, this period also overlaps with stinger season, so stinger suits are essential for snorkeling.

Ferries depart from the Cairns Marlin Marina, located centrally and easily accessible from most hotels within the CBD.
If you're arriving by car, allow time for parking, as the marina can get busy—paid parking is available at nearby lots.
Check-in generally starts 30 minutes prior to departure, and photo ID is required for all passengers.

Accessible restrooms with clear signage at a tourist attraction.

Fitzroy Island provides essential amenities including public restrooms, freshwater showers, and covered picnic tables near Welcome Bay.
A beach hire hut near the main beach offers snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and stinger suits for rent.
There is a dive centre for guests participating in scuba diving or snorkel safaris.
Wi-Fi access is limited, and mobile signals may be weak or unavailable in interior parts of the island, especially along the hiking trails.
First aid facilities are available at the resort and near the beach hire station.

Tourists snorkeling in clear blue waters at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.

Fitzroy Island Resort is the only accommodation option on the island, with beachfront suites, self-contained apartments, and budget-style cabins.
It's a great choice for couples wanting a quiet escape, families looking to extend their time by the reef, or adventure-seekers who want to explore the island over multiple days.
Resort amenities include a swimming pool, beach bar, on-site restaurant, games room, and tour desk.
Advance bookings are highly recommended, especially during weekends and school holidays when availability is limited.

Snorkelers exploring coral reefs near Fitzroy Island on a Cairns day trip with glass bottom boat.

A café and licensed restaurant are located within Fitzroy Island Resort, serving breakfast, lunch, and light snacks throughout the day.
Some full-day tours include pre-packed lunch options or meal vouchers, which can help save time and money.
Guests on ferry-only trips can bring their own food, but keep in mind that alcohol and glass containers are not permitted on the island.
It’s advisable to carry your own drinking water, especially if you’re planning to bushwalk or snorkel extensively.

A signboard reading "Alcohol free zone" fixed onto a pole

Alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited in public areas and cannot be brought onto the island with your personal belongings.
Stinger suits are required during jellyfish season (typically November to May) for all in-water activities.
Touching or damaging coral is strictly prohibited, in accordance with Great Barrier Reef Marine Park regulations.
Smoking is not allowed on the beaches or within the national park areas, including walking trails.
Drones must not be flown without permission from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services—permits must be obtained in advance.
All waste should be disposed of properly to help protect the island's natural environment.

Frequently asked questions about Fitzroy Island

How much time do I need on Fitzroy Island?

For most visitors, a full-day trip (around 6 hours on the island) offers enough time to snorkel, walk the trails, and relax on the beach. Half-day trips are more limited and best suited for travelers who just want to swim or sunbathe. If you're into hiking or scuba diving, consider staying overnight to experience more at a relaxed pace.

What’s the difference between a ferry ticket and a full-day tour?

Ferry-only tickets are the most flexible and budget-friendly—they simply include return transfers to Fitzroy Island and give you free time to explore on your own. Day tours, on the other hand, often bundle extras like snorkel hire, glass-bottom boat tours, or guided island walks.

Is Fitzroy Island suitable for non-swimmers or young children?

Yes. The shallow, calm waters at Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach make it a good spot for young kids and non-swimmers. Glass-bottom boat tours offer a way to see coral without getting in the water. There are shaded picnic spots and short walking trails suitable for most ages. Just be aware that Nudey Beach, while beautiful, is a 15-minute walk over uneven terrain and not stroller-friendly.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own snorkel gear, including fins and stinger suits. Just make sure it’s clean to avoid bringing any contaminants onto the reef. If you don’t want to carry gear, you can rent it at the beach hire hut or include it in your tour package when booking.

What do I need to know about stinger season?

Stinger season typically runs from November to May, when box jellyfish and other marine stingers can be present. During this time, it’s strongly advised—sometimes required—to wear a full-length stinger suit while swimming or snorkeling.

How long is the hike to Nudey Beach, and is it difficult?

The walk to Nudey Beach takes about 15–20 minutes from the main jetty. It’s a scenic but uneven trail with some steps and rocky patches, so closed-toe shoes are recommended. While not overly strenuous, it's not suitable for prams or people with mobility issues. The beach itself is unpatrolled and has no amenities, so bring water and supplies.

Is there Wi-Fi or mobile reception on the island?

There is limited mobile reception, mainly around the resort area near Welcome Bay. Wi-Fi is available at the resort for guests but is not public or guaranteed to be reliable. Plan as if you’ll be mostly offline, especially if you’re going on walking trails or southern beaches.

Are lockers or storage available on the island?

There are no public lockers, so it’s best to pack light and leave valuables at your hotel or accommodation in Cairns. If you're staying at the resort, you can store belongings in your room.

Is Fitzroy Island wheelchair or mobility accessible?

Parts of the island, such as the resort and Welcome Bay beach area, are accessible, but many walking trails—including the path to Nudey Beach—have uneven terrain and are not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

Is the island pet-friendly?

Pets are not allowed on Fitzroy Island as it is part of a protected National Park. Only certified service animals with proper documentation may be permitted under special conditions.

Is camping allowed on Fitzroy Island?

No, camping is not permitted on the island. The only accommodation option is Fitzroy Island Resort, which offers a range of rooms and apartments.

What happens if I miss the ferry?

Unfortunately, ferry departures are punctual and cannot be delayed. If you miss your scheduled ferry, you may need to pay a rebooking fee or forfeit the ticket, depending on the provider’s policy. We recommend arriving early to avoid missing your trip.