Colorful boats docked at a marina in Cairns with lush green hills and a bright blue sky in the background.

Cairns, Australia

Cruises to Cairns, Australia

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Things to do in Cairns

Cairns is a vibrant coastal city where the rainforest meets the reef, radiating a relaxed tropical energy and breathtaking natural beauty. Its warm climate, palm-lined esplanade and stunning ocean views make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the essence of Australia’s Far North.

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  • A green sea turtle swimming over colorful coral formations in the clear blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

    Take a scenic, 145-mile drive through the stunningly beautiful Australian landscape to Cervantes, a small fishing village.

  • Aerial view of a small lush island surrounded by coral reefs and vivid turquoise water in the Great Barrier Reef.

    Discover the wonders down under the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site noted for its “superlative natural beauty above and below the water, (providing) some of the most spectacular scenery on earth".

  • Aerial view of Kuranda Village surrounded by green rainforest, open fields and mountains under a dramatic sky in Queensland.

    Shop for arts and crafts at Kuranda Village, a picturesque mountain retreat inside the World Heritage Rainforest.

  • Two kookaburras perched on a branch in a lush forest, showing their blue and brown feathers in soft sunlight.

    See exciting and educational wildlife presentations including a snake show featuring some of the world’s most venomous snakes, cassowary and koala feeding.

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Shore excursions to explore in Cairns

Shore excursions in Cairns invite travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. Whether exploring nearby wonders or simply soaking in the tropical atmosphere, every experience reflects the beauty and energy that make Cairns unforgettable.

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  • Green cable cars traveling over dense tropical rainforest beneath a cloudy blue sky in Kuranda, Queensland.

    Best of Cairns: Skyrail, Kuranda & Scenic Railway

    Soar above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and take in stunning views of the Coral Sea and Green Island. Explore the charming Kuranda Village, filled with art galleries, local shops and cozy cafés. Then, ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding past waterfalls, ravines and lush mountain landscapes in Barron Gorge National Park.

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  • A koala resting with limbs draped across tree branches amid green eucalyptus leaves in bright daylight.

    Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure

    Set at the foothills of the MacAlister Range, this 25-acre wildlife sanctuary is Northern Australia’s largest and most captivating wildlife attraction. Wander along eco-friendly boardwalks to spot koalas, cassowaries and crocs. The Gondwana Gateway offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s prehistoric past and the evolution of its remarkable native species.

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  • A green cable car gliding above dense rainforest with sweeping views of Cairns, coastline and the Coral Sea beyond.

    Kuranda & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

    Voted Australia’s Best Major Tourist Attraction, the award-winning Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers a breathtaking journey above lush treetops and through the stunning Barron Gorge. Glide past cascading waterfalls and panoramic views before stopping at two mid-stations, where you can step into the heart of the rainforest and explore its natural beauty along scenic, winding walkways.

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  • Vintage train crossing a curved steel bridge through dense tropical rainforest near Cairns, Queensland.

    Gold Class Scenic Rail

    Step aboard the historic Gold Class train and travel through North Queensland’s stunning landscapes in style. Originally built between 1886 and 1891, these beautifully restored red-wooden carriages combine Old World charm with modern comfort. Relax in plush lounge seating as you pass waterfalls, gorges and mountains—a truly elegant way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

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  • Aerial view of dense green rainforest canopy under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds in tropical Queensland.

    Rainforestation, Army Duck & Wildlife

    Journey into Australia’s World Heritage Rainforest at Rainforestation National Park, a 100-acre tropical paradise. Cruise through lush waterways on an amphibious Army Duck, meet koalas and kangaroos up close and discover Indigenous traditions through the award-winning Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. Enjoy dance performances, cultural demonstrations and a classic Aussie BBQ lunch surrounded by the beauty of Tropical North Queensland.

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  • Aerial view of a winding river cutting through dense green rainforest with rolling hills and cloudy blue skies in the background.

    Wild River Tube Ride

    Enjoy a half-day river tubing adventure through the stunning waterways of Queensland. After meeting your certified guide and getting a quick safety briefing, take a short walk to the river and step into your tube. Drift along calm waters and gentle rapids surrounded by lush rainforest—an authentic, unforgettable experience that combines relaxation with a touch of adventure.

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Discover all Cairns shore excursions

Explore itineraries with cruises to Cairns

Cairns is a highlight on many Australia and New Zealand cruise itineraries, offering travelers a true taste of tropical paradise. As one of Queensland’s most captivating ports, it welcomes visitors with warm ocean breezes, lush landscapes, and a laid-back coastal charm. Cruises to Cairns promise unforgettable moments in Australia’s Far North.

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7-Day Queensland with Great Barrier Reef

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9-Day Queensland with Great Barrier Reef

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14-Day Northern Explorer

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Discover Cairns on your next cruise

This sun-soaked port city blends natural beauty with a relaxed coastal atmosphere, making it a favorite stop on many Australia and New Zealand itineraries. From the moment you arrive, Cairns captivates with its warmth, color and unmistakable tropical energy.

Cruises to Cairns
Small waterfall flowing into a rocky rainforest pool surrounded by lush green foliage near Cairns, Australia.

Unwind at Crystal Cascades, a hidden rainforest gem with cool, clear swimming holes.

Shallow turquoise lagoon with metallic fish sculptures and people swimming under a deep blue sky at Cairns Esplanade.

Splash and play beneath sculptural water features in a crystal-clear tropical swimming lagoon.

A smiling couple stands at the railing of a Princess® cruise ship, enjoying the open sea and blue sky.

A couple stands together on the wooden deck of a Princess® cruise ship, gazing out at the open sea beneath a bright blue sky dotted with clouds.

Front-facing view of a Princess® cruise ship sailing through calm ocean waters.

Cut through the world’s waterways and experience the planet’s most exciting coastlines from a sea-side perspective; our fleet is your luxury-and-entertainment-packed transport to adventure.

Discover our ships

Step aboard any Princess® ship and discover your new favorite way to travel. Each vessel is a floating playground of flavor, comfort and top-deck experiences. Enjoy freshly prepared local dishes, Broadway-caliber entertainment, oceanview fitness and wellness studios, family programming and beds so comfortable they’ve won awards. 


No two ships are identical, but they all share one mission: turn your vacation into a standing ovation.

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Cruises to Cairns FAQs

*The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.

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  • Princess EZair

    Princess EZAir® Flights

    Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airline, allow you to book early and pay later with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages. Please note: Princess EZair® is only available in certain markets.

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    Airplane to Ship Transfer

    Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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  • Cruise Plus hotel packages

    Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

    Extend your cruise vacation and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

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