Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for your trip to the island. Check the ferry schedule, pack the right gear, and choose your hiking routes.
Getting there
Ferries depart from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Fitzroy Flyer fast catamaran from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal (Marlin Marina, Berth 20). | 45 minutes | A$88 - A$105 return | Must check in 30 minutes prior to departure. Multiple operators offer day trips. |
| Boat: Private vessel or yacht mooring at Welcome Bay. | 1.5 hours (15 nautical miles from Cairns) | A$39 per night for public moorings | Anchoring on the coral reef is strictly prohibited; must use marked reef protection buoys or anchor in sand. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The island is accessible year-round. The most popular time is the dry season, between May and October. The water is clearer and the weather is calmer during these months. Stinger season runs from November to May. You must wear a lycra stinger suit in the water during this time.
What to bring
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Check in 30 minutes before your ferry departure.
Ferries leave exactly on time.
How the day runs
Follow these schedules to make the most of your time.
Hike to the summit and snorkel at Nudey Beach.
- Ferry Departure
Take the first Fitzroy Flyer from Cairns.
- Summit Track
Hike the 269-metre peak before it gets too hot.
- Nudey Beach
Cool off with a swim and snorkel at the coral beach.
- Lunch
Eat at Foxy's Bar or enjoy a packed picnic.
- Turtle Centre
Take a tour of the rehabilitation facility.
- Return Ferry
Catch the afternoon boat back to Cairns.
A shorter visit focusing on the main beach area.
- Ferry Departure
Leave Cairns mid-morning.
- Welcome Bay
Snorkel directly in front of the resort.
- Secret Garden Track
Take a short, shaded walk through the rainforest.
- Relax
Grab a drink at the beachfront bar.
- Return Ferry
Head back to the mainland.
Island Facilities and Rules
Fitzroy Island is a National Park. You must take all your rubbish back to the mainland with you. Do not litter or leave plastic behind. Feeding wildlife, including fish and birds, is strictly prohibited. When snorkeling, do not stand on or touch the living coral.
You can rent snorkeling equipment and stinger suits at the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub (FISH). Wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan to hike the Summit Track. Bring a refillable water bottle, as hydration is crucial in the tropical heat.
Easiest way to do it
Fitzroy Island Day Tour from Cairns
7 h 30 min 4.2 (712)
- Glass-bottom boat tour (if option selected)
- Use of stinger suit (if option selected)
- Use of snorkel gear (if option selected)
From$77per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I pack?
Bring a snorkeling mask, fins, and a stinger suit. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a refillable water bottle.
Are there lockers available?
There are limited lockers available for day trippers near the resort precinct. It is best to pack light and keep valuables to a minimum.
Can I use my drone?
Drone use is heavily restricted over National Parks and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. You must obtain specific permits to fly one here.