Barron River Cruise with Kuranda Riverboat
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including children and seniors
Overview
Take a 45-minute cruise along the Barron River with Kuranda Riverboat, where ancient rainforest and rare wildlife like freshwater crocodiles and cassowaries await. This family-friendly tour offers calm waters and rich local stories in Tropical North Queensland.
Kuranda Riverboat Tour
45 Minute Cruise | 5 Tours/Day, 7 Days/Week
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a serene 45-minute cruise along the Barron River in Kuranda, where you'll explore the world's oldest tropical rainforest. Experience captivating commentary on local wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles and the rare cassowary, while enjoying stunning views and rich history. A perfect adventure for all ages awaits!
Cruise the tranquil waters of the World's most ancient tropical rainforest!
Tour times
10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM
We operate 5 tours per day, 7 days per week. Tours outside of our set times can be organised too by contacting us, including sunset tours.
OUR CRUISES ARE ON THE BARRON RIVER IN KURANDA ONLY.
YOU CANNOT DRIVE DOWN TO THE RIVER TO ACCESS OUR CRUISES.
Park your car and walk cross the Kuranda Railway Station footbridge and go down the stairs to the river where you will see our red flags flying at our jetty.
All tours are subject to seasonal river conditions and group bookings.
About
Enjoy a tranquil 45 minute Wet Tropics calm water cruise on the Barron River in Kuranda aboard the MV Kuranda. The commentary highlights various aspects of the World's most ancient tropical rainforest in Australia, river life and history of Kuranda. The river is home to a host of wildlife including freshwater crocodiles, turtles, snakes, fish and birds. Occasionally a wild cassowary may be spotted on the edge of the rainforest by the riverbank.
Established in 1982, a cruise on the Kuranda Riverboat will leave you relaxed and refreshed. The calm waters of the beautiful upland Barron River in Kuranda provide great photographic opportunities whilst your skipper gives you an insight into some of the history of Kuranda, the ancient tropical rainforest and the animals, reptiles and birds that reside in this unique area of Tropical North Queensland.
The river is home to a host of wildlife including freshwater crocodiles (Crocodylus johnsoni or Crocodylus johnstoni), turtles, snakes, water dragons and fish, together with over 100 species of tropical birds. Cassowaries are sometimes seen too on the far side of the river. Our tours are suitable for all ages. Children under 4 years of age are FREE of charge.
OUR CRUISES ARE ON THE BARRON RIVER IN KURANDA ONLY. YOU CANNOT DRIVE DOWN TO THE RIVER TO ACCESS OUR CRUISES. Park your car and walk cross the Kuranda Railway Station footbridge and go down the stairs to the river where you will see our red flags flying at our jetty
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
The boarding point is accessed via a footbridge near Kuranda Railway Station – plan time to find parking and walk to the jetty.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Use zoom to capture wildlife sightings like cassowaries and crocodiles without disturbing them from a distance.
Wear Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure is high in Tropical Queensland—apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brim hat.
Listen to the Commentary
The skipper’s expert insights enhance your experience by explaining local ecology and Kuranda’s history; stay attentive.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Freshwater crocodile
- Southern cassowary
History
Kuranda’s Barron River corridor has been a vital area for Indigenous peoples and later settlers, with the rainforest protected as part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Conservation
Kuranda Riverboat operates with strong environmental stewardship to minimize impact on this ancient ecosystem, supporting sustainable eco-tourism in the Wet Tropics.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing during the riverboat cruise.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from strong UV rays common in tropical environments.
spring|summer|fall specific
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Provides shade and reduces sun exposure during the daytime tour.
spring|summer|fall specific
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for sudden rain showers typical of Tropical North Queensland.
summer|spring specific