FAQs

When is whale watching season in Cairns in 2026?

The 2026 Cairns Whale Watching season runs from 15 July through to 6 September. Tours operate daily throughout the season, subject to weather and availability. Cairns is one of the few locations in Australia where Humpback Whales can be observed from a dedicated tour during their annual northward migration.

Will I actually see whales?

We have a high success rate for whale sightings throughout our season. Humpback Whales pass through the waters near Cairns on a reliable migratory route each year, and our experienced Marine Biologists know exactly where to look. While no wildlife encounter is ever 100% guaranteed, the vast majority of our guests witness whales, often up close. And if sightings are limited on the day, your included free time at Fitzroy Island means you’ll still have a fantastic day out.

What is the best time of year to see whales in Cairns?

Mid-July through August tends to offer peak whale activity as the migration is in full swing. September can also be excellent as whales begin their southward return journey. Our season (15 July – 6 September 2026) is specifically timed to coincide with the most reliable sighting window.

What type of whales will I see?

Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are the primary species during our season, as they migrate northward through the Coral Sea each year. You may also spot other marine wildlife including dolphins, sea turtles, and various seabirds.

How experienced is the operator?

Cairns Whale Watching has been operating since 2009, making us the original and most experienced whale watching operator in Cairns. Our Marine Biologists have spent years studying the local migration patterns, and their expertise significantly improves your chances of a great sighting.

What is included in the tour?

Your tour includes return catamaran transfers between Cairns and Fitzroy Island, a 90-minute whale watching experience led by our Marine Biologists (with expert commentary), and 2.5 hours of free time at Fitzroy Island. Fitzroy Island features Nudey Beach (one of Australia’s Top 10 beaches), snorkelling waters, a turtle sanctuary, and a resort bar and café. Optional extras such as snorkel hire and glass-bottom boat tours can be added.

Why does the tour go to Fitzroy Island?

Fitzroy Island is positioned along the whale migration corridor, making it the ideal base for our whale watching excursions. But it’s also a destination in its own right, a stunning National Park island with award-winning beaches, clear reef waters, and plenty to do. Rather than simply returning to Cairns after the whale watching portion, we give guests plenty of time to explore. It’s one of the things that makes our tour unique and popular with our guests.

What happens if we don’t see many whales?

In the rare event that whale activity is low on a particular day, your time at Fitzroy Island ensures the day is far from wasted. Guests frequently tell us that Fitzroy Island alone would have been worth the trip. Our Marine Biologists will also make every effort to locate whales in alternative areas if the primary spots are quiet.

How long is the tour?

The 08:30am departure returns to Cairns at approximately 14:50 (or 16:50 if you choose to stay longer at Fitzroy Island but subject to availability). The 10:45am departure returns at approximately 16:45.

Are there two departure times?

Yes. The 08:30am departure includes free time at Fitzroy Island before the whale watching tour. The 10:45am departure does the whale watching first, then heads to Fitzroy Island. Both options include 2.5 hours at the island.

Is the tour suitable for children and families?

Absolutely. This tour is one of the best family activities in Cairns. Children of all ages are welcome, and the combination of whale watching and Fitzroy Island activities gives kids (and adults) plenty to engage with throughout the day. Adult supervision is required for children under 16 at all times.

How do I book a whale watching tour in Cairns?

You can book directly through our website using the Book Now button.

Can I book with a Cairns Local discount?

Yes! Queensland residents receive a 30% discount on all whale watching tours. Visit NQlocal to get your discount.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel or change your booking without charge if you notify us more than 24 hours before departure. Cancellations within 24 hours of travel incur a 100% cancellation fee. No-shows are also charged at 100%.

Can I pay with Credit Card? EFTPOS? Travelers’ Cheques?

We happily accept both Visa & MasterCard as well as having EFT facilities both at check-in and on the boat. Travelers’ Cheques must be in $AUD with supporting identification / photo Id such as passport. No personal cheque’s will be accepted without prior clearance. The nearest foreign money exchange is Global Money Exchange, located at 69 Abbott St, Cairns City. Phone ahead for opening hours on +61 7 4031 7272

What should I bring on the day?

Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a dry change of clothes, and footwear suitable for a coral beach (thongs or shoes). Bring a credit card or cash for optional activities, food and drinks at Fitzroy Island, and any onboard purchases. Make sure not to forget your camera.

Will I get seasick?

We operate on stable, modern catamarans designed for comfort. In conditions of 15 knots and below, the ride is typically very smooth. If you’re prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking travel medication (such as Travel-Calm) at least 30 minutes before departure. We stock both Ginger Tablets and Travel-Calm on board.

What will the weather be like?

Fantastic of course – as the slogan says, Queensland beautiful one day perfect the next! (Well we hope so). Whale Watching Tours Cairns have access to accurate 3 day forecasts provided by the Bureau of Meteorology as well as real-time weather reports available from our crew stationed on the Great Barrier Reef.  For the latest conditions give us a call on + 61 7 4030 7910 between 9am-5pm, 7 days a week.

What if the weather is bad?

We operate in most weather conditions. It’s more about wind and swell than rain. If conditions are forecast as unsuitable for travel, we’ll contact you to rebook without charge. In the rare event a tour is cancelled and you cannot reschedule, a full refund is provided.

Is the tour accessible for passengers with disabilities?

There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel. At least one set of stairs needs to be negotiated on the boat. We recommend calling our team to discuss your specific requirements before booking, so we can advise on suitability and plan accordingly.

Where is Fitzroy Island?

Fitzroy Island is a National Park island located approximately 45 minutes by catamaran from Cairns, situated within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It features sheltered beaches, walking trails, a turtle rehabilitation sanctuary, a bar and café, and a boutique resort. Nudey Beach, on the island’s eastern side, has been repeatedly named one of Australia’s top ten beaches.

Is there anything to do at Fitzroy Island if I don’t want to swim?

Plenty. Fitzroy Island caters for guests of all activity levels. ‘Dry’ options include island walking trails, a glass-bottom boat tour, the bar and café, and simply relaxing in a stunning natural setting. You won’t be short of things to do.

Is snorkelling equipment included?

Snorkel equipment is available to hire as an optional extra — mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit, and flotation vest. This can be added when booking or on the day at Fitzroy Island. Equipment is available in adult and children’s sizes.

Should I be concerned about Jelly Fish or Marine Stingers?

While certain species of Jelly Fish can be found in tropical waters at any time of year, the majority are harmless to man. Official ‘Stinger Season’ in Cairns is from November to May when water temperatures suit the few species of concern.

While incidents involving serious stings are extremely rare our crew are trained to recognize sting types and apply appropriate first aid assistance if required. To greatly reduce your chances of an encounter with a jellyfish protective lycra suits are available fore hire from Fitzroy Island and come in a range of sizes from XS to XXL. Our lycra suits are also excellent sun protection.

Are there sharks at Fitzroy Island?

Yes, they are a top predator and form a vital part of the worlds marine eco system. However most are shy and quite harmless such as the common white tip reef sharks which only grow to approximately 5ft and are very timid.

An encounter with a reef shark is a magical experience but enjoy it quickly as they will generally swim off in the opposite direction if they feel they are being watched or if you get too close.

Can I book an open dated voucher?

You can, however, travel on the date you desire is subject to availability and whale season (July – August). It is your responsibility to contact us at least 3-4 days prior to confirm your actual travel date. If the booking date on your voucher is in a different rate period to that in which you travel a small extra charge may be payable to cover any rate increase.

Can I travel with Whale Watching Tours Cairns if I’m staying in Port Douglas?

Yes! Just allow a little more travel time. Port Douglas is approx 90 minutes drive from cairns Reef Fleet Terminal so an 11am departure may work best for you. We do not have transfers from Port Douglas.

I am driving to the marina, where can I leave the car?

Our check-in counter is located at 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Opposite us is the Pier Marketplace Shopping Centre and Shangri-La hotel. You can park outdoors behind the Pier Marketplace for approximately $1.20/hr or under the Shangri-La in secure parking for around $15/day.

If you don’t mind a short walk there is a $4 car park outside Trinity Wharf on Wharf street, a flat 5 minutes walk from our check-in.

Parking is free in the street after 12 noon on Saturday and all day on Sunday.

Can I take a pram on board the boat?

Our catamaran’s do have ramps but please let us know when booking if you are bringing a pram.

Can we sit anywhere on the boat?

You are free to sit where ever you please, except areas signed as staff only. Choose between air-conditioned cabins on the upper and lower decks all with large viewing windows.

Seating outside on the upper rear deck in the fresh air and sunshine is also a popular option.

For your own safety try not to move around the boat too much when the boat in underway, especially in rough weather.

What do I need to bring?

Hat, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, something to swim in, a dry change of clothes, cash or credit card for optional activities and onboard purchases such as souvenirs, professional photos from our on-board photographer or a drink from the bar.

Do you supply towels?

The best idea is to bring one from your hotel or accommodation. Unfortunately we are not able to hire or lend towels.

Are there toilets, showers & changing rooms at the reef?

There are toilets on the boat accessible at all times throughout the day plus bathrooms, changing rooms and outdoor showers on Fitzroy Island.

Is the lunch included?

No lunch is not included on this tour but you can bring snacks on board and eat from the cafe or bar at Fitzroy Island.

Is the snorkeling equipment also in child sizes?

We have snorkelling equipment in both adult and child sizes at Fitzroy Island. Fins range from children’s size 1-3 to Adults 11-13 and masks are in adult and child fittings. Wet suits and lycra suits are also available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL. Swim vests are also available in most sizes for those wanting some extra flotation while snorkelling.

Do you have baby-sitting or child minding facilities?

No, parents are responsible for supervising their children at all times. Our friendly crew can help organise the timing of your activities so that one parent is always free to attend to the children.

Do you have lockers on board?

No sorry. While theft is very rare on board we suggest valuables are better off left in your hotel room or with the concierge rather than brought to the cruise or island.

Are there facilities for the disabled?

There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel. However, passengers are required to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel.

The Reef Magic II catamaran has wide isles and a wheel chair accessible toilet & shower. Access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory and sundeck all require stairs to be negotiated and would require a carer to be present if the customer can not walk unassisted.

The best idea is to give us a call and talk through the level of disability and we can suggest suitability or not. Please advise us when booking.

I am not so interested in snorkelling or swimming at Fitzroy Island. Is there dry activities? 

Fitzroy Island caters for all ages and swimming abilities. We have a range of “dry activities” so you can experience the island without even getting wet. These include walks, a bar/cafe, Glass Bottom boat tours with interactive commentary and plenty of space to lay back and relax.