Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal: Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Your launchpad for unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventures, offering seamless access to the world's most stunning marine wonders.
The Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal is the bustling departure point for tours and adventures to the Great Barrier Reef. Located in the heart of Cairns, it offers easy access to a variety of reef experiences, from day trips to liveaboard adventures. With modern facilities and a vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect starting point for exploring the marine wonders of the region.
A brief summary to Ocean Spirit Cruises
- Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns City, QLD, 4870, AU
- +61740449944
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your reef tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
- Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding.
- Check the weather forecast and sea conditions before your trip and pack accordingly with sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothing.
- Consider taking a taxi or rideshare if traveling in a group, as it may be more cost-effective than individual transfers.
Getting There
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Walking
The Reef Fleet Terminal is within walking distance of most accommodations in Cairns City. From the Cairns Esplanade, walk along the waterfront towards the Marlin Marina. The terminal is located next to the Shangri-La Hotel and The Pier Shopping Centre. Allow 15-25 minutes depending on your location.
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Public Transport
Local buses operate throughout Cairns, with several routes stopping near the Reef Fleet Terminal. Check the TransLink website or app for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. Alight at the Spence St at Grafton Street stop, which is an 8-minute walk to the terminal. A single bus fare within Cairns costs approximately $3.20.
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Taxi/Ride Share
Taxis and rideshares (Uber, etc.) are readily available in Cairns. A taxi or rideshare from Cairns Airport to the Reef Fleet Terminal typically costs between $25 and $35, depending on traffic. From the city center, a short taxi ride will cost around $10-$15.
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Driving
If driving, several parking options are available near the Reef Fleet Terminal. The Pier/Shangri-La Underground Car Park and the Southern Esplanade Car Park are the closest. Parking rates vary, with hourly rates around $2 and daily rates between $15 and $20. Street parking is also available, with time limits and fees of approximately $2.20 per hour. Be aware of parking restrictions and pay at the 'Pay and Display' machines or via the EasyPark app. On Sundays, some center car parks offer free parking.
Discover more about Ocean Spirit Cruises
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falla Reef Trips
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Uncover the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with Falla Reef Trips - your expert tour operator in Cairns for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel
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Barefoot Tours
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Discover the beauty of Queensland with Barefoot Tours: your expert guide to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests.
Coral Sea Dreaming Dive and Sail
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Explore the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef with Coral Sea Dreaming's expert diving and sailing tours in Cairns, Australia.
Cairns City Centre
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Experience the vibrant Cairns City Centre, where urban life meets the stunning beauty of nature, offering a unique adventure in Queensland's tropical paradise.
Whitsunday Islands Info
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Explore the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands, a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable adventures in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Night Markets
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Explore the vibrant Cairns Night Markets, where shopping meets a culinary adventure in a lively atmosphere filled with local crafts and delicious food.
The Reef Eye
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Discover breathtaking views of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef from The Reef Eye, an iconic Ferris wheel that enhances your travel experience.
Cairns Night Markets
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Discover the lively Cairns Night Markets, where you can indulge in local cuisine, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy nightly entertainment in a vibrant setting.
Samurai Gallery Australia
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Explore the rich heritage of Japanese art at Samurai Gallery Australia in Cairns City, featuring samurai swords, armor, and traditional crafts.
Blvk Temple Tattoo
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Explore the vibrant tattoo culture of Cairns at Blvk Temple Tattoo, where artistry meets excellence in body ink and tattoo removal services.
Eggplant & Poppy
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Discover the charm of Cairns at Eggplant & Poppy, a unique gift shop offering eclectic treasures and local artisan creations.
Oceana Walk Arcade
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping scene of Oceana Walk Arcade, where local treasures and culinary delights await in Cairns, Queensland.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland
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Bounce
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bounce in Cairns, a youth hostel ideal for adventurers and social travelers looking for comfort and community.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fitzroy Island Adventures
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Your gateway to Fitzroy Island: Experience rainforests, reefs, and relaxation just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns!
Reef Magic
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Discover the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Magic - an unforgettable journey through one of nature's most spectacular underwater worlds.
Silverswift
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Explore the Outer Great Barrier Reef with Silverswift: Dive, snorkel, and discover vibrant marine life on a luxurious catamaran from Cairns.
Cairns harbor scenic walkway
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Explore the breathtaking Cairns Harbor Scenic Walkway, a serene escape blending nature and stunning coastal views in Queensland.
Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises
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Cairns Boat Hire
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Discover the stunning beauty of Cairns from the water with Cairns Boat Hire, offering a range of boat rentals for all your aquatic adventures.
Baybaru
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Discover the enchanting Baybaru, a captivating tourist attraction in Cairns City, renowned for its breathtaking views and vibrant cultural experiences.
Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom - Cairns Premier Great Barrier Reef & Island Tours
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom's exceptional boat tours from Cairns Marina.
Fogarty Park Sound Shell
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Discover the lively Fogarty Park Sound Shell, a scenic venue in Cairns perfect for concerts, markets, and family fun amidst stunning waterfront views.
Finger A, # 8 Reef Experience
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Your launchpad to the Great Barrier Reef: dive into an underwater paradise from Cairns City, Queensland.
Cairns Koalas & Creatures
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Explore Australia's iconic wildlife at Cairns Koalas & Creatures—an unforgettable experience for animal lovers and families in the heart of Cairns.
The Reef Hotel Casino
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Experience the excitement of gaming, exquisite dining, and luxurious stays at The Reef Hotel Casino, Cairns' premier entertainment destination.
Great Adventure
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Experience the thrill of nature at Great Adventure, a must-visit tourist attraction in Cairns City, Queensland, where adventure meets stunning scenery.
Hot Air Balloon Cairns
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Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes on a hot air balloon adventure in the heart of Cairns, Queensland, Australia.
Finger E
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Discover Finger E in Cairns – a breathtaking coastal attraction featuring stunning views, vibrant marine life, and endless adventure opportunities.
Essential places to dine
Ochre Restaurant
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Dundees on the Waterfront
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Ollie's Italian
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Signature Restaurant
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Experience culinary excellence at Signature Restaurant in Hilton Cairns with stunning Esplanade views and a menu inspired by local flavors.
The Backyard Cairns
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Bushfire Flame Grill
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Bushfire Flame Grill in Cairns – a family-friendly restaurant serving exceptional barbecue cuisine.
Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse
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Experience the finest steaks at Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse in Cairns – where flavor meets waterfront views.
Piato Cairns Restaurant
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Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining with Australian flair at Piato Cairns—where culinary art meets stunning marina views.
Tha Fish
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Discover exquisite seafood at Tha Fish in Cairns – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Vitalia's Italian Restaurant
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Experience the true taste of Italy at Vitalia's Italian Restaurant in Cairns City—where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Lemoncello's Cairns
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy at Lemoncello's Cairns - where local ingredients meet coastal charm.
Marinades Indian Restaurant Cairns
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Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Marinades Indian Restaurant in Cairns - where flavor meets elegance for all dietary needs.
Tamarind Restaurant
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Indulge in a fine dining experience at Tamarind Restaurant in Cairns, where innovative dishes meet exceptional service.
Prawn Star
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Experience delectable seafood aboard Prawn Star in Cairns, where fresh flavors meet stunning marina views.
Piccolo Cucina
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
HENLEY COLLECTIONS
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Explore Henley Collections in Cairns for trendy clothing and stylish accessories, perfect for enhancing your travel wardrobe and making a fashion statement.
YMO Yours Mine Ours Boutique
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The Pier, Cairns
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Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and stunning views at The Pier in Cairns - a vibrant destination for all!
Mainie Australia
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Ancient Journeys
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Australian Leather Company Cairns
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Wild Sugar | Women's Fashion for the Wild and Free | Australian Made
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OK Gift Shop
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Koaland
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Sunny and West
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Giftopia
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Orchid Plaza Shopping Centre
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Pouch Quality Aussie Gifts
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82K Collections
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Bowerbird Australia
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Bar Cairns
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Gin Social
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Flamingos Tiki Bar
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BAR36
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The Pier Bar
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Fiestas Cairns
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Wolf Lane Distillery
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Three Wolves
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Coral Sea Brewing Company
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Rattle n Hum Cairns
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rattle n Hum Cairns, where delicious grill cuisine meets a lively pub ambiance, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
The Conservatory Bar
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Miss Chief Bar & Eatery
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Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook
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Bar 94 Club & Beer Garden
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P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub
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Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub in Cairns, where live music, hearty food, and a lively atmosphere await you.
