Cairns: Fitzroy Island Ferry with Optional Lunch & Activity

Getting away from the hustle of Cairns to enjoy a day on Fitzroy Island sounds perfect in theory. This ferry-based experience, offered by Sunlover Reef Cruises, promises a full day of relaxation and adventure amid Queensland’s stunning natural beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the flexibility—you can tailor your day from leisurely beach lounging to active rainforest exploring. Second, the quality of the included activities, such as snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides, which open up the vibrant underwater world. Third, the convenience of roundtrip transportation with a well-organized schedule.

One consideration is that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth noting if you have mobility concerns. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, and who appreciate well-organized, value-packed day trips.

Key Points

• Flexible options allow you to customize your day on Fitzroy Island.
• Roundtrip ferry transfer makes logistics simple and stress-free.
• Snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides offer great ways to see marine life.
• Self-guided national park walks give you a chance to explore at your own pace.
• Delicious lunch options tailored to dietary needs add extra value.
• Reviews highlight friendly guides and well-organized trips.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users.
• Good for both relaxation and adventure lovers seeking a day in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Ferry Journey: Stress-Free and Scenic

The experience kicks off with a check-in at the Reef Fleet terminal inside Cairns Marlin Marina. Arriving early (by 9:45 am) ensures smooth boarding, as late arrivals may miss out without refunds. From there, a 105-minute catamaran ride takes you across the water toward Fitzroy Island, a trip praised for its smoothness and scenic views. Travelers often comment on the friendly crew, with some mentioning guides like Georgina and Carmen providing engaging commentary on marine life during the glass-bottom boat tour.

The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering a relaxing start to your island day. The boat is modern and spacious, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the Queensland coast’s views. The crew’s professionalism and clear instructions add to the sense of confidence and safety, especially appreciated during unpredictable weather that some reviews mention.

Arrival and Free Time on Fitzroy Island

Once on the island, you’re greeted with a full 4.5 hours of free time—more than enough to explore, relax, or partake in optional activities. The island’s natural beauty is striking; miles of beaches, lush rainforest trails, and scenic lookouts await.

Many reviewers mention the walk to Nudey Beach, which is considered one of the island’s top attractions. The trail is well-marked, and a standard tip is to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection. Some guests opt for lighter footwear like waterproof sandals to ease the walk, as noted by one reviewer who found flippers unnecessary.

For those inclined to unwind, the beaches are perfect for swimming or sunbathing. The calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkelers, with plenty of colorful fish and the chance to see sea turtles—something many guests eagerly report.

Snorkeling and Marine Experiences

The snorkeling options are highly praised, with many reviews raving about the chance to see turtles, rays, and a variety of tropical fish. The tour includes snorkel gear, and some reviews mention guided snorkel tours that add a layer of expert insight. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, snorkelers still find the experience worthwhile, though visibility may vary.

The glass-bottom boat ride is another popular highlight, providing a sheltered view of the coral reef and marine life. One reviewer, Lucy, mentioned being lucky enough to spot two turtles during her ride, which she described as a “beautiful” experience. Guides like Georgina and Carmen are noted for their informative commentary, making the trip educational as well as fun.

Exploring the National Park & Natural Highlights

For the more active, self-guided walks through the island’s rainforest trails, such as Lighthouse Road or the Summit Trail, offer stunning views and a taste of local flora and fauna. The Secret Garden trail adds a sense of adventure and discovery, especially for nature lovers.

A few reviews mention that exploring the island on foot is highly recommended, with some noting the importance of wearing closed-in shoes if planning to hike. The island’s terrain is accessible but somewhat uneven, so comfortable footwear and hydration are key.

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Optional Extras and Dietary Considerations

While the core tour includes the ferry, access to beaches, and self-guided walks, additional activities like guided snorkel or kayak tours can be purchased on the day. The Turtle Centre (closed on Mondays) is a popular optional visit for those interested in conservation and marine life rehabilitation stories.

For lunch, a vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary options are available at no extra charge. Reviewers consistently praise the delicious packed lunches, especially the chicken baguette and fresh fruit. It’s important to specify dietary requirements when booking, and follow up with Sunlover Reef Cruises if needed, as some guests emphasize the importance of confirming these beforehand to ensure smooth meal preparation.

Returning to Cairns

The return trip departs Fitzroy Island at 3:30 pm, with the boat ride back taking approximately an hour. The full day wraps up with arrival back at Cairns around 4:30 pm, giving you ample time to relax or plan your evening. The organized schedule ensures your day runs smoothly, minimizing downtime and maximizing your island experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Fitzroy Island ferry experience offers a well-balanced day of adventure and relaxation, especially when you add optional snorkeling or glass-bottom boat rides. The value lies in the convenience of roundtrip transport, the variety of optional activities, and the chance to explore unspoiled beaches and rainforest trails.

The reviews highlight friendly and knowledgeable guides, which enhances the overall experience, making it feel personal and engaging. The food options cater to various dietary needs, adding to the trip’s appeal for diverse travelers.

While it might not suit those with mobility issues or those seeking a fully guided, structured tour, it’s ideal for independent-minded travelers who want flexibility and a taste of Queensland’s natural beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a day of soaking up sunshine, snorkeling with turtles, discovering rainforest trails, and relaxing on pristine beaches, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who value organized logistics combined with free time to explore at their own pace. Food lovers will appreciate the quality packed lunch, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of marine and terrestrial wildlife encounters.

It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a straightforward, enjoyable escape from Cairns that offers plenty of options to tailor your day.

FAQ

What is included in the basic package?
All packages include roundtrip ferry transfers, access to beaches and national park walks, and 4.5 hours of free time on the island.

Can I customize my experience?
Yes, you can add optional extras such as a picnic lunch, snorkel gear, or a glass-bottom boat ride, depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a sun hat, water, a towel, sunglasses, and a daypack. Waterproof shoes are recommended for walking trails.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour offers a range of lunch box options including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut allergy, and more. Be sure to specify your needs when booking.

How long is the ferry journey?
The ferry ride takes approximately 105 minutes each way, offering scenic views along the Queensland coast.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy snorkeling, beach activities, and exploring the island. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the tour from operating, an alternative date or itinerary will be offered. No refunds are provided if an alternate plan is accepted.

Can I access the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre?
The Turtle Centre is available as an optional activity, but it is closed on Mondays.

Final Words

This Fitzroy Island ferry tour presents a practical way to experience Queensland’s natural beauty without the fuss. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of free exploration and optional guided activities, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on stunning beaches. The overall reviews reflect a reliable, enjoyable, and flexible experience that balances value with memorable moments in the wilds of Fitzroy Island.

Whether you’re after underwater encounters, rainforest walks, or just plain old beach lounging, this tour has enough options to satisfy a variety of travelers—making it a worthwhile addition to your Cairns itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: