About Your Tour

Pricing

Adult

15+ years

$159.00

Child

4 - 14 years

$89.00

Family

2 Adults + 2 Children

$407.00

Book Your tour

Whale Watching Tour

Cairns’ original whale watching operator since 2009. On this half or full day tour, our Marine Biologists guide you out to the Humpback Whale migration corridor along the Great Barrier Reef. Then you have two and a half hours of free time at Fitzroy Island to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on one of Australia’s best beaches.

Whether you witness a single whale or a full pod, it’s a day you won’t forget. And on the rare occasion sightings are quiet, Fitzroy Island more than makes up for it.

Two departure options to suit you — 8:30am if you’d like Fitzroy Island first, 10:45am if you prefer a sleep in. See the full itineraries below.

08.30am Itinerary

  • 08:30: Depart on a 45 minute catamaran transfer to Fitzroy Island and enjoy two and half hours of free time on the island before the Whale Watching Tour. Then meet back at the dock at Fitzroy Island to commence your Whale Watching experience.
    Explore Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours Great Barrier Reef
  • 11:45: Join our Marine Biologist for your 90-minute Whale Watching Tour. We head to the prime migration corridor where Humpbacks are most frequently sighted. Then boat heads back to Fitzroy Island.
    People on boat whale in front
  •  14:00: Depart Fitzroy Island and arrive back at Cairns at 14:50.
    Vessel Explore Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours Great Barrier Reef

Want more time at Fitzroy Island?! Optional: Stay for the 16:00 departure and arrive back in Cairns at 16:50 (subject to availability — ask crew or contact Reservations).
Explore Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours Great Barrier Reef

10.45am Itinerary

  • 10:45: Depart on a 45 minute catamaran transfer to Fitzroy Island before the Whale Watching Tour.
  • 11:45: 90-minute Whale Watching Tour with Marine Biologist commentary.
    Whale Watching Great Barrier Reef Cairns Tours
  • 14:00: Return to Fitzroy Island. Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time — swim, snorkel, explore.
    Explore Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours Great Barrier Reef
    OR
    Don’t want to stay at Fitzroy Island after? Optional early return: Guests not wanting Fitzroy Island time may be able to return on the earlier service (subject to availability, cannot be booked online — ask crew on the day).
  • 16:00: Depart Fitzroy Island and arrive at Cairns at 16:45.
    Vessel Explore Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours Great Barrier Reef

Included: Free Time at Fitzroy Island

Every whale watching tour with us includes 2.5 hours of free time at Fitzroy Island: a National Park gem just 45 minutes from Cairns, home to Nudey Beach (consistently ranked in Australia’s Top 10 beaches), a turtle rehabilitation sanctuary, clear waters perfect for snorkelling, and a resort bar and café.

It’s not just a backup plan, it’s half the adventure. Even on the rare occasion that whale sightings are limited, our guests consistently rate their Fitzroy Island time as a highlight of their Cairns trip.

Snorkel Tours Fitzroy Island Cairns Tours

What To Bring

Extra cash or a credit card

For any onboard purchases including optional activities, souvenirs, professional onboard photos and bar items (Visa, MasterCard – surcharges apply).

Things For The Trip Home

Towel, hat, sunglasses, sun screen and a dry change of clothes.

Protective Shoes

Fitzroy Island has coral beaches, so shoes or flip-flops are a great idea.

Optional Extras

Beach hire customer service Fitzory Island small

Snorkel Equipment Hire

Snorkel equipment can be booked for your use during your time on Fitzroy. Equipment includes mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit and flotation vests.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Explore below from above! Stay dry and book a ride around the island to see some of the best coral reefs around the island. Spot sea turtles and colorful fish as you are guided by our expert staff.

Lockers

Lockers

Small lockers available at Foxy’s bar for a small charge if required – while theft is very rare we suggest valuables are better off left in your hotel room or with the concierge.

Experience Co coach and bus transfers

Coach Transfers

Please call us to discuss transfers if you need them from your hotel. Additional cost per person applies. Available for 0830am departures only.

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