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Cairns River Cruise & City Sights by Cairns Discovery Tours - Cairns

Cairns River Cruise & City Sights by Cairns Discovery Tours

Cairns Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

8.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; includes gentle walking and sitting periods during the cruise.

Overview

Combine a serene cruise along Trinity Inlet with a culturally rich city tour of Cairns, including visits to stained glass cathedrals and tropical gardens. Cairns Discovery Tours offers a unique glimpse into this Far North Queensland hotspot.

Cairns City, Queensland

Cairns River Cruise & City Sights Tour

Boat Tour

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Adventure Photos

Cairns River Cruise & City Sights Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the beauty of Cairns with a unique combination of a serene river cruise and an engaging city sightseeing tour. Explore the stunning Trinity Inlet, visit iconic landmarks like St. Monica’s Cathedral and the Cairns Museum, and enjoy a delightful lunch and afternoon tea, all while soaking in the vibrant local culture.

Discover the beautiful tropical city of Cairns on the Cairns' River Cruise and City Sightseeing tour.

Two of Cairns' small owner-operators have combined their tours to showcase our beautiful river system and city.


Adult $199.00 Child $149.00 Prices are per person valid to 31st March 2025


Duration 9.30 am - 6.00 pm Monday to Saturday


Itinerary

Make your way to the Cairns Marina, 1 Spence St Cairns and board the Cairns River Cruise at Berth A1 on "A" Finger at 9.30 am - (Return Hotel transfer included)

Cairns River Cruise 9.45 am - 11.00 am

  • 1 1/4 hr guided calm-water cruise explores the stunning sights of the Trinity Inlet and waterfront of Cairns. The extensive and stunning Inlet is mountain-mangrove-lined and is a sanctuary for many types of wildlife. The tour meanders through pristine creeks (the home of saltwater crocodiles) and takes in some of the quirky sites of the backwaters of Cairns. The Cairns River Cruises vessel is spacious and carries a maximum of 18 guests - so the tour is bespoke and personal, and everyone has access to the fantastic views of Cairns.

Free time for a stroll along the Marina or Cairns Pier Shopping Centre before enjoying a delicious lunch

View Dundees on the Waterfront Lunch Menu

  • Lunch at Dundee's on the Waterfront at 12 noon Relax and take in the waterfront views at Dundee's Restaurant, a short 2 minute walk from where your river cruise ends, before joining Cairns Discovery Tours City Sights afternoon Tour.

Cairns City Sights & Highlights 1.00 pm - 6.00 pm

You will be collected at 1.00 pm from the Cairns Marina - out the front of the Reef Fleet Terminal. Discover our vibrant city's history. & learn about the rich cultural heritage unique to Cairns and the Far North.

  • St. Monica’s Cathedral - Step inside one of Australia's most breathtaking cathedrals, featuring the World's largest themed stained glass windows.

  • Cairns Museum - visit the Cairns Museum. join our exclusive tour of the School of Arts building in the city's heart to see yesteryear's highlights.

  • Afternoon Tea A true local delight of warm, fresh-from-the-oven scones with strawberry jam and cream and your choice of Tea, Coffee

  • Cairns Botanic Gardens - Enjoy a professional guided walk through the lush Flecker Botanic Gardens, renowned for having one of the best exhibitions in Australia's tropical plants. Meander through the butterfly-lined pathways under the green canopy as your guide explains the various plants and wildlife you see along the way.

  • Cairns Lookout - Take in the panoramic views of the city and the Coral Sea

  • Lower Barron Falls - Enjoy a walk at the lower section of the Barron Gorge National Park, Surprise Creek Falls.

  • Palm CoveTake a stroll along the jetty or on the sand on this picture-perfect beach, fringed with coconut trees. Nestled behind the beach is the quiet seaside suburb of Palm Cove, with its’ magnificent paperbark trees.

  • Your day of discovery ends, returning to your chosen Cairns CBD accommodation at approx. 6.00 pm. Northern Beaches 5.30 pm

Please note - Wheelie Walkers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are not permitted as our vehicle is not equipped with a luggage area


Adventure Tips

Bring Sun Protection

Queensland’s sun can be intense even on cloudy days—pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Dress for Comfort

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes for the botanic gardens and city strolls.

Stay Hydrated

Carry a water bottle—although refreshments are included, keeping hydrated during the day is crucial.

Limited Mobility Access

The tour vehicle isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters, plan accordingly.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Saltwater crocodile
  • Rainbow lorikeet

History

Cairns’ development as a port city was pivotal for Far North Queensland’s growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blending Aboriginal heritage with colonial history.

Conservation

Trinity Inlet’s mangroves are vital coastal buffers and breeding grounds, with ongoing protection efforts addressing pollution and habitat preservation.

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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunhat

Essential

Protects your face and neck from strong Queensland sun during river and city tours.

summer specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking through botanical gardens and city sites without discomfort.

Light rain jacket

Useful for unpredictable showers during spring and summer months.

spring specific

Refillable water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated throughout the day’s activities under tropical conditions.