Whale Watching in Cairns

If you’re looking for a magical tropical vacation out on the water surrounded by exotic animals, there really is no better place to look into than Cairns, Australia. This one of a kind city is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system known to humankind and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It’s so big that it can be seen all the way from space, and it’s just begging to be explored. For any animal lover, the most enticing activity offered by on site has to be whale watching, as the humpback whales will also be taking a break for Antarctica to come down and frolic in the Great Barrier Reef along with you!


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Whale Watching in Cairns

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If you’re looking for a magical tropical vacation out on the water surrounded by exotic animals, there really is no better place to look into than Cairns, Australia.

This one of a kind city is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system known to humankind and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It’s so big that it can be seen all the way from space, and it’s just begging to be explored.

For any animal lover, the most enticing activity offered by on site has to be whale watching, as the humpback whales will also be taking a break for Antarctica to come down and frolic in the Great Barrier Reef along with you!

Book a whale watching tour in Cairns now and take the first step to creating some of the most incredible vacation memories of your life.

Here's all you need to know about whale-watching tours, one of the most unique outdoor activities in Cairns.

What can I expect of a whale watching cruise in Cairns?

When you book a whale watching cruise in Cairns, your day will start with morning coffee or tea on an enjoyable 45 minute catamaran ride to the scenic Fitzroy Island, home of Australia’s famous Nudey Beach.

Soak in the sun and waves as you relax and enjoy Fitzroy Island’s natural calm and beauty for up to 4 hours, and choose whether or not to participate in exciting activities organized by the activity providers, before hitting the water for a 90 minute humpback whale watching tour.

The extremely special event you’ll witness is the migration of the humpback whales from the freezing waters of Antarctica to the balmy ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef in order to give birth to their young. Get expert commentary from an experienced guide as you witness this miracle of nature firsthand.

When is the best time of year to go whale watching in Cairns?

The best time of year to visit Australia in general is between during the winter season between the months of May and September, but if you really want to experience a magical whale watching tour with the best possible results you’ll want to go between mid july and the end of august.

Not only do temperatures hover between 60 and 80 degrees, and not only does the rain almost completely disappear during this time of year, but it’s also the time of year when humpback whales migrate from the frigid waters of Antarctica to balmy temperatures of Australia in order to frolic and give birth to their youth.

And you’ll be able to see this miracle of nature, but you’ll have to act fast, because this happens right in the middle of high tourist season and the whale watching tours are bound to fill up quickly!

How much will a whale watching cruise in Cairns cost?

Expect to spend about AU$100 for a whale watching cruise in Cairns, Australia. For that price, you’ll be taken on a magical 2 or 4 hour catamaran cruise package.

You will have the opportunity to make the most of your visit to the gorgeous Fitzroy Island in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, bask in the sun on Australia’s famous Nudey Beach, with fun and exciting coordinated activities to take part in, should you so choose.

From there, you’ll take 90 minutes to experience the beauty of nature as you watch the humpback whales migrate all the way from the icy cold waters of Antarctica to the warm, clear ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef to frolic and give birth to their young. You’ll also be given morning coffee and tea as well as snacks throughout the day.

What is included in a whale watching cruise in Cairns?

The only thing that isn’t included in the cost of a whale watching cruise in Cairns is the price of hotel transfer. This will cost you an additional AU$25 and will need to be coordinated directly with the tour supplier. It will be paid on the day of the tour.

What departure times are available for a whale watching cruise in Cairns?

For early risers, the morning departure time for this magical whale watching tour is 9 am. However, if you prefer to sleep in, there is also a catamaran cruise that departs from Cairns at 11 am. Either way, the amount of time spent whale watching is the same.

The only difference is that if you leave on the 9 am cruise, you’ll get up to 4 hours of free time on Fitzroy Island and Nudey Beach, whereas if you take the 11 am cruise, you’ll only get up to 2 hours of free time in that spot.

Make sure to check in often with your tour provider to make sure your meeting and departure times are locked in!

What else should I be aware of about whale watching in Cairns?

When you go whale watching in Cairns, everything is taken care of for you by an expert team of local guides and experts. Still, it never hurts to be prepared as prepared as possible, so here are a few extra things to be aware of before you make your final decision and book your dream vacation.

What other water activities can be done in Cairns?

Travel tips

  • What’s really cool about going on a whale watching cruise in cairns is that you don’t need to print your ticket, you can present your tour voucher right from your mobile phone screen!
  • Since the success of this activity relies heavily on ideal weather conditions as well as natural occurrences beyond reasonable control, the whale watching tour in Cairns is subject to cancellation without prior notice.
  • This tour is eco-certified and committed to sustainability.
  • Activities on Fitzroy Island are suitable for all ages, making this the perfect tropical vacation option for families.