Cairns Fitzroy Island Half-Day with Snorkel or Glass Bottom Boat

• Return boat trip from Cairns
• Transfer by high-speed Fitzroy Island ferry
• Snorkelling equipment (if option selected)
• Glass-bottom boat experience (if option selected)
• Packed picnic lunch (if option selected)

• Hotel pick up and drop off

Make your own way to the Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns, for check-in.

Check availability to see starting times.

• Customer-requested cancellations made at least 6 days prior to travel will receive a refund of 95% of the total booking amount. The remaining 5% will be retained as a non-refundable administration and booking fee. Cancellations made within 5 days of travel will incur a 100% cancellation fee, including no-shows.
• Should supplier be required to cancel or the operation of the tour for any reason, including on the rare occasions due to inclement weather, an alternative date or itinerary will be offered to the passenger. If the alternative date or itinerary cannot be arranged or agreed upon, a full refund will be authorised. If the passenger accepts the alternative date or itinerary, no refunds will be issued.
• Tour itinerary may be subject to change without notice due to weather conditions or operational requirements.
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! – Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction

The listed half-day schedule departs Cairns at 10:45am and leaves Fitzroy Island at 2:00pm, giving you over two hours on the island after the roughly 45-minute ferry ride. It works best when you choose one main activity — snorkelling, the glass-bottom boat or a short walk — then leave a little time to swim or relax around Welcome Bay. If you want Nudey Beach plus several activities, the full-day option gives you a more relaxed pace.

Your inclusion depends on the booking option you select. Choose snorkel hire for independent reef time; the equipment comes with a flotation vest and lycra suit. Choose the glass-bottom boat if you would rather stay dry and enjoy a guided view of the coral and marine life. With a compact half-day schedule, pre-booking the activity you most want is the easiest way to make the most of your island time.

This is a flexible island visit rather than a fixed group itinerary. Once the ferry arrives, most of your time is yours to shape: relax by the water, follow a short walking track or snorkel independently if that option is included. The glass-bottom boat has guided commentary, so it is a great choice if you prefer a little more structure without giving up the freedom of the day.

Bring secure walking shoes for the tracks and reef shoes or sturdy sandals for the coral-rubble shoreline around Welcome Bay. The Nudey Beach track is about 1.2km return and is the most realistic walk for a half-day visit, especially if you make it your main land activity. The lighthouse and summit routes are longer and steeper, so they are better saved for a full-day trip.

From November to May, wearing a lycra stinger suit is the comfortable choice for swimming and snorkelling in tropical waters. A suit is included when you book snorkel hire, together with a flotation vest. If your option does not include snorkel equipment, suits can be hired separately on the day; always follow the crew’s local water-safety guidance.

Yes. A pre-booked picnic lunch makes the short island stay easy and includes a baguette or wrap, seasonal fruit, a muesli bar and bottled water. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, coeliac-friendly and pork-free choices can be arranged. After booking, please contact us with any dietary requirements.

The crossing takes around 45 minutes on a fast ferry, and many travellers describe the ride as comfortable or steady. Conditions can still vary, so if you are prone to motion sickness, choose a seat with fresh air and a clear view of the horizon and remain seated whenever the crew asks. For medication, follow the product directions or ask a pharmacist about the right option and timing for you.