After Dark at Cairns Aquarium: Night Tour & Dinner
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the tour involves gentle walking through indoor exhibits.
Overview
Discover the Great Barrier Reef’s nocturnal world with Cairns Aquarium’s guided night tour, followed by a two-course dinner. Experience glowing corals and active nightlife in a stunning underwater setting.
Night at the Aquarium Tour & 2 Course Dinner
Exclusive after hours guided night tour with 2 course dinner in Dundee’s restaurant
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef after dark on a guided tour that reveals the vibrant life of nocturnal creatures. Witness glowing corals and active wildlife, followed by a delightful two-course dinner at Dundee's restaurant, all set against a breathtaking underwater backdrop. An unforgettable evening awaits!
Dinner Menu
Duration
2.5 Hours!
About
As the sun goes down on the Great Barrier Reef, a whole new world awakens. Corals glow, colourful reef fish seek shelter and nocturnal predators begin their night hunt. At the same time, coastal forests stir with life, as reptiles amphibians and insects emerge from their burrows to seek out food in the safety of the shadows.
The Night at the Aquarium guided tour gives you a glimpse into the unique world of the region's nocturnal creatures and their behaviours as they move about it in the darkness. You have the option to complete the evening at Dundee's restaurant with a perfectly matched 2 course dinner while you enjoy a stunning sea life backdrop.
Dinner Menu
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Settle In
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour to check in and acclimate to the aquarium’s lighting and environment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking indoors on varied flooring; sturdy, flat shoes help navigate comfortably.
Photography Restrictions Apply
Low light and flash restrictions preserve the animals’ habitat—bring a camera with good low-light capabilities if you want photos.
Check Dietary Preferences in Advance
Confirm any special dietary needs before booking the 2-course dinner to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bioluminescent corals
- Nocturnal reef predators such as moray eels and crab species
History
Cairns Aquarium opened its doors in 2017, providing a dedicated venue for education on the Great Barrier Reef and adjacent ecosystems.
Conservation
The aquarium supports reef conservation through public education and partnerships, helping raise awareness of threats like coral bleaching.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports steady movement through aquarium halls during the tour.
Light jacket
Keeps you warm during cooler indoor evening temperatures.
winter specific
Low-light camera
Captures the glowing corals and nocturnal creatures without using flash.
Notebook and pen
For jotting down observations or questions during the guided experience.