Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium, Queensland
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate standing and walking
Overview
Unlock a deeper understanding of the Great Barrier Reef’s marine life with a 3-hour behind-the-scenes tour at Cairns Aquarium. Hand-feed rays, visit the Turtle Hospital, and learn about vital conservation efforts in tropical Queensland.
Marine Life Encounter
Ages 3+ • 3 Hours • The ultimate way to experience the Cairns Aquarium
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a unique 3-hour Marine Life Encounter at the Cairns Aquarium, where you'll explore behind the scenes with a Wildlife Educator. Discover conservation efforts, visit the Turtle Hospital, and enjoy the unforgettable experience of hand-feeding gentle Cownose Rays. This immersive adventure promises unforgettable memories and insights into marine life.
For the ultimate experience, there is no better way to explore the Cairns Aquarium than with a Marine Life Encounter.
Duration
3 Hours
About
You will enjoy a visit through the Aquarium and then meet with your Wildlife Educator, who will personally escort you on a Back of House Tour and into the Turtle Hospital and Coral Conservation Tour.
They will introduce you to the inner workings of the aquarium, the amazing animals in our care and the conservation, breeding and research programs we undertake. Be guided through the Cairns Turtle Hospital and experience the thrill of feeding the gentle Cownose Rays straight from your hand!
Inclusions:
• General Admission Entry • Guided Back of House and Turtle Hospital Tour & Coral Conservation Tour • River Monsters Scatter Feed • Exclusive Hand Feeding of Cownose Rays • Children must be 12+ years to hand rays (souvenir gift will be substituted for children under 12) • Available 11:30 am – 2:45 pm Monday – Saturday
Subject to availability
Adventure Tips
Book Ahead
Reserve your spot in advance as Marine Life Encounters have limited availability and fill quickly.
Age Restrictions for Feeding Rays
Children under 12 cannot hand-feed Cownose Rays but will receive a souvenir gift instead.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be on your feet for several hours touring the aquarium and behind the scenes areas.
Arrive On Time
Tours start promptly between 11:30 am and 2:45 pm Monday through Saturday; punctuality ensures you don’t miss any part of the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Watch for blacktip reef sharks in aquarium exhibits.
- Spot turtles receiving care and rehabilitation in the Turtle Hospital.
History
Cairns Aquarium opened in 2017 to showcase the biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland’s freshwater ecosystems with an emphasis on research and conservation.
Conservation
The facility supports active rehabilitation of injured marine wildlife and runs breeding programs aimed at reef restoration and species preservation.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Cairns
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Supportive footwear ensures comfort during the three-hour walking tour.
Lightweight breathable clothing
Helps manage humidity and indoor warmth for summer visits.
summer specific
Hat and sunscreen
Recommended if spending time outdoors nearby before or after the tour.
spring specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture close encounters with marine animals and behind-the-scenes moments.