Whale Watching and Fitzroy Island Day Tour
Whale Watching
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- Cairns’ only whale watching tour – Dedicated whale encounters during the annual migration.
- Approx. 90 minutes of whale watching – See humpback whales breach, tail slap and play.
- 2.5 hours on Fitzroy Island – Swim, snorkel, explore or unwind on island time.
- Daily departures – Choose from 8:30 am or 10:30 am from Cairns Marina.
- Spacious, stable catamaran – Fully air-conditioned with expert marine commentary.
- Optional add-ons – Snorkel gear, paddleboards and glass-bottom boat tours available.
- Perfect for all ages – Great for families, photographers and wildlife lovers.
Discover the Humpback Whales and Fitzroy Island
Get ready for a day you’ll never forget! This unique experience combines Cairns’ only dedicated whale watching tour with a relaxing visit to Fitzroy Island, all in one spectacular day on the Great Barrier Reef.
Why You’ll Love It
Each winter, majestic humpback whales pass through the tropical waters off Cairns, and you can see them up close with the region’s only dedicated whale watching operator. Feel the excitement as these gentle giants breach just metres from the boat.
After your time with the whales, the tour includes a 2.5-hour visit to Fitzroy Island, where you can swim at Welcome Bay, snorkel from the beach, or take a walk to Nudey Beach. It’s the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation, all in one day.
Frequently Asked Questions Whale Watching
When is whale watching season in Cairns?
How long will we spend whale watching?
What do we do on Fitzroy Island?
Is this tour suitable for children?
Can I hire snorkelling gear on the island?
Limited seats available – Whale season is short!
Book now to secure your place on this unforgettable reef and wildlife experience.
Highlights
Witness majestic humpback whales up close in the wild, followed by free time on tropical Fitzroy Island.
Itinerary
08:30 am Departure Itinerary
- 08:30 am – Depart Cairns on a 45-minute catamaran ride to Fitzroy Island
- 09:15 am – 11:45 am – Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Fitzroy Island (swim, walk, snorkel, or relax)
- 12:00 pm – Board the vessel for your Whale Watching tour (approx. 90 minutes)
- 1:30 pm – Return to Fitzroy Island
- 2:00 pm – Depart Fitzroy Island
- 2:50 pm – Arrive back in Cairns
Optional: Stay longer on Fitzroy and take the 4:00 pm ferry (arrives Cairns at 4:50 pm) – subject to availability. Please check with crew on the day or contact reservations in advance.
10:45 am Departure Itinerary
- 10:45 am – Depart Cairns on a 45-minute catamaran ride to Fitzroy Island
- 12:00 pm – Join the Whale Watching tour directly (approx. 90 minutes)
- 1:30 pm – Return to Fitzroy Island
- 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm – Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Fitzroy Island
- 4:00 pm – Depart Fitzroy Island
- 4:45 pm – Arrive back in Cairns
Optional: If you don’t wish to stay on Fitzroy Island after the tour, you may be able to return on the earlier ferry (2:00 pm departure) – subject to availability. Please speak to the crew on the day.
Included
- 1.5 hours Whale Watching Tour
- Up to 2.5 hours to explore Fitzroy Island (This can be extended to 4 hours on the day if available or by contacting our reservations department in advance)
- 45 minute ferry to Fitzroy Island return
- More time to explore, relax and play!
Optional Extras
- Optional Snorkel Hire
- Glass Bottom Boat Tour (0830 departure only)
- Picnic Style Lunch
What to bring
- Swimmers
- Towel
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Reefsmart sunscreen
- Water bottle (you are able to refill on board)
- Change of clothes
- Extra cash or credit card for onboard purchases
How to get there
Check-in and depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal, locate 1 Spence St, Cairns QLD 4870
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