About this experience
Discover Cairns, considered as the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef, in multiple tour options that immerse you in the tropical city's rich history and iconic landmarks. The exploration includes visits to nearby attractions such as the Flecker Botanic Gardens and Palm Cove. For a more comprehensive experience, you may opt for a sunset dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Cairns catamaran or a self-guided tour of the underwater world at Cairns Aquarium.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Hotel pick-up
Your guide collects you from your Cairns hotel at 12:30 PM.
Cairns Marlin Marina
The tour begins at the water's edge — the departure point for Great Barrier Reef expeditions and the symbolic heart of Cairns.
St. Monica's Cathedral
See the world's largest themed stained glass windows, a remarkable piece of tropical-inspired artistry.
Cairns Museum
An exclusive guided visit with stories about life in the tropics, from the gold rush era to the modern city.
Devonshire tea at Noa's Café, Edge Hill
A relaxed break with scones, jam and cream, and your choice of locally grown tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
Flecker Botanic Gardens
A guided walk through the key garden areas, showcasing the extraordinary diversity of tropical flora.
Scenic lookout
Panoramic views over the city of Cairns and the Coral Sea from the best vantage point in the hills.
Lower Barron River Gorge National Park & Surprise Creek Falls
A walk through lush national park terrain to reach a secluded waterfall — a genuine taste of tropical wilderness.
Palm Cove
Watch the sunset and take a stroll along the jetty or beach of one of Queensland's most beautiful coastal villages.
Hotel drop-off or cruise terminal
City tour guests are returned to their hotel by 6:00 PM; dinner cruise guests are transferred to the Spirit of Cairns terminal at 6:15 PM.
Meeting point
Cairns City, QLD, Australia (hotel pick-up included)
Pick-up from your Cairns hotel begins at 12:30 PM. Confirm your hotel address at the time of booking so the guide can include you on the pick-up route.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket (particularly in winter months)
- Suitable footwear for the dinner cruise if applicable (boating shoes recommended)
- Sunscreen and water for the outdoor sections
Know before you go
Good to know
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Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the two ticket options?
The standard City Tour runs from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM with a hotel drop-off at the end. The City Tour with Sunset Dinner Cruise follows the same daytime route but concludes at the Spirit of Cairns cruise terminal at 6:15 PM for an evening buffet dinner aboard the catamaran.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Children under 4 years travel free of charge. The itinerary includes walking sections, so children should be comfortable on their feet for short distances.
Can I use a wheelchair or mobility scooter?
Unfortunately the tour vehicle does not have a luggage area, so wheelie walkers and mobile scooters cannot be accommodated on this tour.
Where exactly does the tour start — do I need to make my own way anywhere?
No. Pick-up is from your Cairns hotel at 12:30 PM, so there's no need to travel to a central meeting point. Confirm your hotel details when booking.
Is smoking permitted on the dinner cruise?
No — the Spirit of Cairns is a non-smoking vessel throughout. Footwear is mandatory on board.
Can I see the dinner cruise menu before booking?
Yes. The supplier provides a link to the buffet menu at https://bit.ly/3oLil9c so you can review the food options before committing to the upgrade.