Fitzroy Island Ferry – Return Transfers from Cairns ⛴️
Fitzroy Island Return Ferry
- 🛥️ Scenic and air-conditioned – Travel comfortably on Sunlover’s modern catamaran, the Fitzroy Island Sundancer, with indoor seating and outdoor viewing decks.
- ⏱️ Approximately 45–55 minute crossing – Enjoy beautiful views of the Coral Sea during the journey.
- 🕓 4.5 hours on the island – Plenty of time to explore Nudey Beach, take rainforest walks, enjoy snorkelling or relax.
- 🎒 Add-on activities available – Snorkelling gear, glass-bottom boat tours, kayak hire, and nature walks can be added on board or pre-booked.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly service – Offers child and family fares, plus safe, accessible facilities suitable for all ages.
- 🌿 Perfect for self-guided adventure – Access to visitor facilities, nature trails, turtle centre, Foxy’s Bar, and stunning beaches—all at your own pace
Travel from Cairns to Fitzroy Island in style with Sunlover’s Fitzroy Island Ferry.
In just 45-55 minutes, you’ll be transported across the sparkling Coral Sea to one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most beautiful island escapes. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day trip or a longer island stay, the Fitzroy Island Ferry offers a smooth, scenic ride and plenty of time to enjoy all the island has to offer.
Departing daily from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, this return ferry service is the easiest and most popular way to reach Fitzroy Island. You’ll have 4.5 hours of free time to snorkel, swim, hike, or simply unwind at your own pace. Add on snorkel gear, enjoy lunch at Foxy’s Bar and Grill, or take a walk to the famous Nudey Beach—consistently ranked as one of Australia’s best beaches.
The ferry is operated by Sunlover Reef Cruises, known for their safe, family-friendly service and comfortable vessels. With indoor seating, outdoor viewing decks, and air-conditioning, your journey to and from the island is just as relaxing as the destination itself.
🌊 Island Highlights
- Snorkel directly from the shore over fringing reef
- Hike to Nudey Beach or the island summit
- Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
- Enjoy lunch and cocktails at Foxy’s Bar
- Perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Fitzroy Island Ferry
How long is the ferry ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island?
What are the ferry times and check-in details?
How much time will I have on Fitzroy Island?
Can I add snorkelling or a glass-bottom boat tour?
Is this ferry suitable for families?
💬 Conclusion
The Fitzroy Island Ferry is your ticket to tropical paradise—easy, scenic, and perfect for making the most of your time in Cairns. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or on your own, this return transfer gives you everything you need to relax, explore, and enjoy one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most accessible islands.
🎟️ Book your Fitzroy Island Ferry now and let the adventure begin!
Highlights
- Return transfers Cairns to Fitzroy Island onboard the Fitzroy Island Sundancer
- 4.5 hours on Fitzroy Island National Park
- Great Barrier Reef
Itinerary
- 8.45 am to 9.45 am: Check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal
- 9.30 am: Commence boarding
- 10.15 am: Depart Cairns Marina
- 11.00 am: Arrive at Fitzroy Island
- 3.30 pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
- 4.30 pm: Arrive at Cairns Marina
*Please note the itinerary is subject to change and may depart an hour later due to operational requirements.
Included
This Fitzroy Island trip includes Return transfers to and from Fitzroy Island only.
Optional Extras
- Snorkel Equipment Hire (mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit)
- Glass Bottom Boat tour
- Photos, camera hire, souvenirs, snacks and beverages at the bar On-island spend
- Fresh picnic-packed lunch (a large Ham/Cheese/Tomato/lettuce wrap, potato salad, carrot sticks, chicken nibbles, muffins, and fruit salad)
What to bring
- Towel, hat, sunscreen as well as swimwear and sunglasses
- Sturdy footwear if you intend to complete any of the Bushwalk Trails
- Cash or credit card for snacks, drinks and souvenirs
- In addition, you can bring along a picnic lunch, however, no alcohol is permitted due to the Resort liquor licensing. Foxy’s Bar is also open to purchase meals and drinks.
How to get there
Check-in opens at 8.45 am at the Sunlover Cruises counter inside the Reef Fleet Terminal at the Cairns Marina.
Important Information
The main beach at Fitzroy Island is a coral beach. This can be uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet, so we recommend keeping your shoes on. Once you head over to Nudey Beach, there are soft white sands which can be accessed with bare feet.
