The very best of Australian coastal cruises
Cairns Cruises
Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef: an untamed tropical seascape
Tropical North Queensland is home to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, where vibrant coral reefs, rainforest-clad islands and turquoise waters stretch far beyond the horizon.
Departing from Cairns and Brisbane, this journey explores the Great Barrier Reef in remarkable depth, from remote coral cays and hidden snorkelling sites to island anchorages alive with marine life. Along the way, rugged headlands, mangrove-lined waterways and tropical beaches reveal a coastline shaped by both reef and rainforest.
Aboard True North or True North II, the experience becomes far more immersive than a traditional reef cruise. The flexibility of a small ship allows access to remote reefs, island communities and hidden waterways, with each day shaped by conditions and opportunity.
Cairns highlights
Explore beyond the outer reef
Remote coral cays and secluded snorkelling sites reveal a quieter side of the Great Barrier Reef, far from the crowds of typical day tours.
Dive and snorkel world-famous reefs
Swim amongst coral gardens, sea turtles, manta rays and tropical fish in some of the Great Barrier Reef’s most spectacular locations.
Experience reef and rainforest together
Cruise mangrove-lined waterways and rainforest-fringed islands where tropical wilderness meets the Coral Sea.
Discover the Whitsundays and island cays
Whitehaven Beach and Hook Island deliver clear water, hidden bays and relaxed days spent fishing, walking or exploring by tender.
Explore by sea, land and air
Snorkel vibrant reefs, hike island trails or take to the skies by helicopter for a breathtaking perspective of reef and coastline.
Where your Cairns adventure begins
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Nights
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Cairns cruise with True North different?
True North offers a more immersive way to experience the Great Barrier Reef, with access to remote reefs, island anchorages and waterways beyond the reach of typical day cruises.
Which parts of the Great Barrier Reef are explored?
Itineraries vary, but may include remote reef systems, the Whitsundays, coral cays and tropical islands stretching south from Cairns along the Queensland coast.
What activities are available during the cruise?
Activities may include snorkelling, diving, fishing, beach walks, tender excursions, guided island hikes and optional helicopter flights over reef and coastline.
Is this cruise suitable for snorkellers and divers?
Certainly. The itinerary is designed to showcase some of the reef’s most spectacular snorkelling and diving locations, with opportunities suited to a range of experience levels.
What marine life might I encounter?
Depending on the season and conditions, you may encounter sea turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, dolphins and an extraordinary diversity of tropical fish and coral life.
Will we visit locations beyond the reef itself?
Absolutely. The journey also explores rainforest-fringed islands, mangrove waterways and coastal national parks, creating a broader experience of Tropical North Queensland.
Is the Great Barrier Reef best explored by small ship?
Yes. A small ship provides the flexibility to access quieter reefs, remote anchorages and lesser-visited locations while delivering a far more personalised experience on the water.
Adventure starts here
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