Fitzroy Island Ferry: How to Get there from Cairns

Set amongst a world heritage listed National Park and surrounded by vibrant reefs, Fitzroy Island is a paradise waiting to be explored! The Fitzroy Island Ferry can have you there in 45 minutes from Cairns. Spend the days snorkelling and exploring one of Australias number one beaches, Nudey Beach. What more do we need to say?

Where is Fitzroy Island?

Fitzroy Island is located in North Queensland, Australia. The closest airport to the Island is Cairns Airport which services regular domestic and international flights daily.

The best way to get to the island is by the Fitzroy Island Ferry from Marlin Marina Cairns. This service runs to and from 3 times daily (2 times between the Months of February and March). The duration of the Fitzroy Island Ferry only takes 45 minutes and the journey itself is beautiful.

Return ferry tickets for Adults cost $AUD 80, Children cost $AUD 40 and a Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) cost $AUD 211.

Fitzroy Island Weather

Being located in North Queensland, the Island boasts tropical, warm weather year round. The Summer months from December to March is the wet season and humidity levels are higher. Therefore, the best time to visit is anytime between June – October.

During these months, temperatures range from 18 degrees to 26 degrees with long sunny days and limited rainfall. The water temperatures remain warm with no stingers (experienced from November to May). Stinger Season is jellyfish breeding season so it is a must to wear a protective stinger suit during these months.

We did make the mistake of visiting during the wet season, so take it from our experience that it is advised to avoid these months (if you can!).

Fitzroy Island Resort

Instead of just visiting for the day, why not stay a few nights. There is only one Resort on the Island which has 99 rooms with various accomodation styles to suit couples, families and groups. Room types include one and two bedroom suites, beach cabins and for guests on a budget, a camping site.

Resort facilities are exclusive to guests and include Zephyr Restaurant, resort pool and spa, a movie theatre, table tennis and kids playroom. The General Store acts a small supermarket as some of the rooms do come with spacious kitchens and cooking essentials.

Things to do on the Island

Once you have settled into holiday mode, it is now time to explore. One of the highlights for us was the snorkelling and scuba diving activities. It is also possible to go on rainforest walks or glass bottom boat tours. Or also feel free to sit by the pool bar!

Snorkelling / Scuba Diving

Onsite there is an ‘Adventure Centre’ which can help with booking any snorkelling and diving activities. The PADI accredited Diving Centre offers introductory courses as well as fun dives.

The island is known for the abundance of tropical fish and turtles so jump in the water and explore! The visibility from the months of June – October is fantastic so swimming with little children feels completely safe!

Rainforest Walks

So what if we told you Fitzroy Island is home to one of Australia’s top beaches? That’s right. Nudey Beach was voted Australia’s No.1 beach in 2018.

Therefore, one of the musts on Fitzroy Island is visiting Nudey Beach. Behind Foxy’s Bar (in the Hotel section) there is a Rainforest track. This 15-minute walk will have you arrive at Nudey Beach. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for Goannas, Skinks, Cockatoos, Ospreys and more other species.

The sand on the beach is coral! It is incredibly beautiful. There are large granite boulders behind the beach making you feel like you have stepped into an ancient world. And of course, the water and swimming conditions are just perfect! It truly is a highlight of Fitzroy Island.

Turtle Rehabilitation Tours

Ever since the Resort was purchased in 2010, strong measures have been introduced to help protect the coral reef and it’s inhabitants. One incredible effort includes the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Turtles who have been badly injured or are sick are brought in until they are well enough to be released back into the ocean.

Fitzroy Island operates tours so that guests can see and learn more about the work being done. It was incredibly interesting hearing that the team have saved 450 Turtles. We met ‘Julz’ who had been stabbed / shot 4 times with a speargun.

In Review

With easy access from Cairns, Fitzroy Island is most definitely worth the visit. We would recomend a two or three-night stay so that you can properly explore the island and enjoy the Resort facilities!

If you don’t have the time, the Fitzroy Island Ferry is an easy 45-minute journey meaning you still have ample time to explore the island in a day.

If you are looking for another popular beach location in Australia, check out Byron Bay.

X KoTravellers