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Discover insider tips, local stories, and expert travel advice on our Cairns Discovery Tours blog. From exploring the Great Barrier Reef and hidden rainforest walks to uncovering the best day trips and cultural experiences, our blogs are written to inspire your next adventure. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Cairns or returning to explore more, you’ll find helpful guides, travel ideas, and authentic local insights to make the most of your journey.

Cruise Ships Near an Island

What to pack for a Fitzroy Island day tour: essentials & tips

A Fitzroy Island Day Tour is the perfect getaway from Cairns, offering stunning beaches, lush hiking trails, and world-class snorkelling opportunities. To make the most of your trip, packing smart is important. Whether you plan to explore the island’s scenic tracks, dive into the Great Barrier Reef, or simply relax […]

Tropical Paradise

When is the best time to visit Fitzroy Island for a perfect day tour?

Fitzroy Island is one of the most breathtaking destinations near Cairns, offering crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, and incredible marine life. Whether you’re looking for snorkelling adventures, hiking trails, or simply a relaxing beach escape, planning your Fitzroy Island day tour at the right time can make all the difference.

A Frankland Islands

Discover the magic of Frankland Islands with a day cruise

Looking for an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experience away from the crowds? The Frankland Islands are a hidden gem, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and exclusive access to one of the most breathtaking destinations in Tropical North Queensland. With a special deal available until 28th February 2025, now is […]

Things to do in Cairns for cruise ship visitors

Are you docking in Cairns and wondering how to make the most of your time? Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests of Queensland, offers an incredible array of activities and sights perfect for cruise ship visitors. With Cairns half-day tours, it’s essential to choose […]

Green Island In Great Barrier Reef

3 best islands to visit at the Great Barrier Reef

  Imagine setting foot on an island where every view captivates and the sea’s colours change with the light. The Great Barrier Reef is home to many such islands, each offering adventure and relaxation. Let’s explore the top islands that will make your visit to the reef a truly unforgettable […]

spirit of Cairns boat

Commonly asked questions about the Cairns dinner cruise

This journey is an immersive experience that blends exquisite cuisine with panoramic views of Cairns’ picturesque waterfront. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes the Cairns dinner cruise a must-do activity and reveal how it can transform your visit. 1. What can I expect from the Cairns dinner cruise? As […]

Day Trip In Tropical North Queensland

The best day trips from Cairns: a guide for first timers

Cairns, a gem nestled in the heart of Tropical North Queensland, serves as the perfect gateway for those eager to immerse themselves in Australia’s spectacular natural beauty. From the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef to the vast rainforests, Cairns is a hub of adventure that promises unforgettable experiences. If you’re a […]

Cairns Cruise ship shore excursions

Cairns excursions for cruise ship visitors

Cairns is one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, ride a scenic railway through World Heritage rainforest, or spot a crocodile in the wild – all within a few hours. For cruise ship passengers, the best shore excursions are half-day options […]

Beautiful Waterfalls In Atherton Tablelands

4 must-see waterfalls on the Atherton Tablelands in Cairns

Imagine a place where the air is filled with the soothing sound of cascading water and every turn reveals a view more breathtaking than the last—this is the Atherton Tablelands, a hidden gem in the Cairns region renowned for its stunning waterfalls. In this blog, we’ll journey through four of […]

Great Barrier Reef

5 reasons to visit the Great Barrier Reef

Are you a passionate traveller seeking awe-inspiring adventures? If so, the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns should be on your travel radar. Spread over 2300 kilometres, this marine marvel promises a multitude of extraordinary sights. In this blog, we will discuss five compelling reasons why this UNESCO World Heritage Site […]

A Cairns Botanic Gardens

Things to do on a trip to Cairns

Cairns, a tropical paradise nestled on the north-eastern coast of Australia, offers a captivating blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From vibrant botanical gardens to iconic landmarks, it offers an immersive experience for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation and exploration. If you are planning a trip to Cairns, […]

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Carnival Encounter
29 Sep → 30 Sep
Cairns Port
Tue, 9:30 AM
Wed, 6:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
Carnival Encounter
28 Oct 2026, Wed
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
5:30 PM
Carnival Encounter
30 Oct 2026, Fri
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
5:00 PM
Crown Princess
7 Nov 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Costa Serena
8 Nov 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Riviera
14 Nov 2026, Sat
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:30 AM
8:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
15 Nov 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Viking Venus
20 Nov 2026, Fri
Yorkeys Knob Port
7:00 AM
6:00 PM
Royal Princess
Noordam
23 Nov → 24 Nov
Cairns Port
Mon, 9:00 AM
Tue, 7:00 PM
Noordam
26 Nov 2026, Thu
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Riviera
26 Nov 2026, Thu
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
9:00 PM
Celebrity Solstice
27 Nov → 28 Nov
Cairns Port
Fri, 8:00 AM
Sat, 6:00 PM
Azamara Pursuit
28 Nov 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
11:00 PM
Silver Moon
29 Nov 2026, Sun
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
Royal Princess
Viking Orion
2 Dec → 3 Dec
Cairns Port
Wed, 12:00 PM
Thu, 6:00 PM
Viking Orion
5 Dec 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
Grand Princess
6 Dec → 7 Dec
Yorkeys Knob Port
Sun, 9:00 AM
Mon, 6:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
9 Dec → 10 Dec
Cairns Port
Wed, 7:00 AM
Thu, 3:00 PM
Riviera
Carnival Luminosa
10 Dec 2026, Thu
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
Seven Seas Navigator
12 Dec 2026, Sat
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
7:00 PM
Seven Seas Navigator
Carnival Encounter
16 Dec 2026, Wed
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
Viking Orion
17 Dec 2026, Thu
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Viking Orion
20 Dec 2026, Sun
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
9:30 PM
Riviera
Carnival Luminosa
1 Jan 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
12 Jan 2027, Tue
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
10:00 PM
Silver Moon
17 Jan → 18 Jan
Cairns Port
Sun, 8:00 AM
Mon, 6:00 PM
Westerdam
Carnival Luminosa
18 Jan 2027, Mon
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:00 PM
Carnival Luminosa
19 Jan 2027, Tue
Yorkeys Knob Port
9:00 AM
6:00 PM
Quantum of the Seas
Carnival Encounter
3 Feb 2027, Wed
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
4 Feb 2027, Thu
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
6:00 PM
Costa Deliziosa
12 Feb → 13 Feb
Yorkeys Knob Port
Fri, 8:00 AM
Sat, 5:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
21 Feb → 22 Feb
Cairns Port
Sun, 8:00 AM
Mon, 9:00 PM
Crown Princess
2 Mar 2027, Tue
Cairns Port
9:00 AM
6:00 PM
Queen Victoria
4 Mar 2027, Thu
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Grand Princess
Carnival Splendor
5 Mar 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:00 PM
Carnival Splendor
6 Mar → 7 Mar
Yorkeys Knob Port
Sat, 9:00 AM
Sun, 5:00 PM
Celebrity Edge
9 Mar 2027, Tue
Yorkeys Knob Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Quantum of the Seas
12 Mar 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
9:30 PM
Riviera
13 Mar 2027, Sat
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
7:00 PM
Grand Princess
Viking Orion
15 Mar → 20 Mar
Cairns Port
Mon, 8:00 AM
Sat, 6:00 PM
Viking Orion
Carnival Luminosa
17 Mar 2027, Wed
Cairns Port
9:30 AM
6:30 PM
Carnival Luminosa
21 Mar 2027, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Viking Venus
21 Mar → 22 Mar
Cairns Port
Sun, 10:00 AM
Mon, 6:00 PM
Crystal Serenity
5 Apr 2027, Mon
Yorkeys Knob Port
7:00 AM
5:00 PM
Celebrity Solstice
Carnival Encounter
9 Apr 2027, Fri
Cairns Port
7:00 AM
4:00 PM
Carnival Encounter
11 Apr 2027, Sun
Cairns Port
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
Seabourn Quest
22 Apr 2027, Thu
Cairns Port
9:00 AM
5:00 PM
Carnival Adventure
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Here’s why thousands of customers trustCairns Discovery Tours.

🗓️ Flexible Cancellations

Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking policy. Most Cairns Tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure with a full refund. (Helicopter tours are 48 hours) We make exploring Cairns stress free, so you can book with confidence.

💳 Book Now, Pay Later

Reserve your place on our popular Cairns day tours with Klarna’s Book Now, Pay Later option, or just give us a call or send us an email to secure your booking. We will be in touch to arrange payment 7 days before your departure.  Perfect for planning your Cairns holiday without upfront costs.

🌴 Local Since 1995

For over 30 years, Cairns Discovery Tours has been proudly locally owned and operated. Established in 1995, we’ve shared the tropical beauty of Far North Queensland travellers from around the world. Based in Cairns, we offer authentic tour experiences backed by genuine local knowledge and long standing connections to the region.

👩‍🏫 Expert Local Guides

Our passionate Cairns tour guides are storytellers, historians, and nature enthusiasts. With deep local knowledge, they bring the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Cairns’ tropical heritage to life, ensuring an unforgettable and educational experience.

Rena Keeney
Rena Keeney
30 days ago
We had such a fun time on a half day tour of Fitzroy island with Cairns Discovery Tours! We managed to do an everything we wanted (Nudey beach, long snorkel and lunch) within the time period we had and we even got to swim with turtles 🐢 an unforgettable experience! This would not have been possible without the fantastic help of Maryanne who booked us in for the tour. She went above and beyond to help us find somewhere to leave our bags during our tour and we wouldn’t have been able to go without her help. We enjoyed the experience so much and we are very grateful to Maryanne for her help and her exceptional customer service! I would definitely recommend booking local for these kind of experiences because that kind of customer care just doesn’t come when you book through third party sites. 10/10 experience ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Seka Mrkonja
Seka Mrkonja
1 month ago
Highly recommended!
karen McArthur
karen McArthur
19 days ago
We went on a tour with Discovery Tours today, doing the Mossman Gorge, Daintree / Daintree River Cruise, finishing of visiting Cape Tribulation… Our driver was James, who was exceptional. Giving running commentary along the trip. Guiding his group of people through all the different areas. Thanks James, top job.
Rachael E
Rachael E
1 month ago
In June I came to Cairns on holiday from the UK. It was the biggest holiday I've ever taken and because my health limits what I can do took a lot of planning. Maryanne at Cairns Discovery Tours was brilliant. She helped me choose suitable trips, gave me additional information so I could be prepared, advised on the easiest way to get to the departure point for those trips that don't pick up from my accommodation, etc. I booked all my trips except one with Maryanne. Her knowledge of Cairns was invaluable to me. She spoke to me on Whatsapp to answer my questions (we had to arrange call in advance because of the time difference) and when it occurred to me quite close to departure date that I'd need a way of protecting my head and neck from the sun when snorkelling Maryanne got me a suitable headscarf and dropped it off at my accommodation ahead of my arrival. When a friend decided to join me on some of the trips Maryanne was really helpful to her as well. If I am able to come back to Cairns I'll book as much as I can with Maryanne and Cairns Discovery Tours. The service couldn't be bettered.
Trevor Andrews
Trevor Andrews
26 days ago
We have just done the 3 day/2 night Cooktown and Cape Tribulation Tour with 2 friends. An unbelievable experience due to our fantastic guide Steve, who had so much local knowledge on everywhere we visited, especially historical info on the Palmer River gold rush in the 1800s, and Daintree Rainforest botany. Steve was such a good raconteur with friendly personality, who went out of his way to make our trip so enjoyable. Accomodation at both Cooktown and Cape Tribulation was excellent, with amazing setting of the cabins at Cape Tribulation in the rainforest right by the beach. Everything advertised for the tour and more was an memorable experience. Thank you so much Steve!
John Power
John Power
22 days ago
I was delighted with the Kuranda tour arranged by this company. The timings worked excellently and it was an eminently well organised tour. The train trip up to Kuranda was great fun and fascinating. Personally, I was particularly interested in the engineering. We had an hour in Kuranda Village, which was enough for me, although I expect some people would have liked to have seen the village and visited the butterfly world, which I think would have been tight. Rainforestation was great, plenty of activity of a variety of natures. I could not throw a boomerang to save my life, but it was fun to try. Then the bus down to Cairns was efficient and friendly, with a superb guide.