10 Tours in North Queensland That You Shouldn't Miss

February 20, 2022 Kandra Bartel

Discover the best top things to do in North Queensland, Australia including Full Day Tour in the Daintree , Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge Small-Group Day Tour , Ocean Safari Great Barrier Reef Experience in Cape Tribulation, Daintree River Sunset Cruise, Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns - only 25 guests , Solar Whisper Daintree River Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise, Outer Barrier Reef Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure from Port Douglas, Morning Half Day Tour, Barron Gorge National Park Half-Day White Water Rafting from Cairns or Port Douglas, Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Snorkel and Dive Cruise from Cairns by Luxury Catamaran.
Restaurants in North Queensland

1. Full Day Tour in the Daintree

Daintree Discovery Tours
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5.0 based on 113 reviews

Experience this magnificent area rather than just looking, all in the comfort of our Luxury 8 seater Mercedes Valente. Daintree Discovery Tours will take you to “The most picturesque locations in the Daintree, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, Daintree River, and Cassowary Falls”!

Inclusions: Lunch, Snacks, Bottled water, Insect repellent, Raincoat (if required), Use of binoculars and books

Exclusions: Swimwear and towel, Hat and sunscreen, Expense for ice-creams

Reviewed By P3793EDamyp

Our driver Kim was entertaining and had lots of local knowledge. The river cruise was great where we saw a crocodile and some amazing species of birds. Really good coffee and house made scones for morning tea, then a fun 4WD through the rainforest to the waterfall. The fish and turtles come right up to the edge! Push yourself to get in the water too, it’s well worth it!

2. Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge Small-Group Day Tour

Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia Tony's Tropical Tours
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4.9 based on 961 reviews

A small group Advanced Eco Accredited tour specifically designed to showcase the very BEST of the Daintree Rainforest focusing on spending less time in the vehicle and more time visiting 'must do' Daintree as well as a private World Heritage Listed location in the heart of The Daintree Rainforest . As a multiple award winner of 'Best Rainforest Tour' and 'Best Rainforest Guide", we pride on excellent and personal service. Tony's Tropical Tours has now been recognised as a "Safe Travels" Quality Tourism Accredited Business in alignment with the globally recognised World Tourism Council for the COVID Clean protocols.

Inclusions: Morning Tea - Muffin biscuits, plunged coffee, Daintree Tea, water, Due to COVID19 requirements our BBQ lunch will now be individually served (not a buffet style) followed by fruit. Vegetarian/vegan/gluten/lactose free catered for-please advise., Entry to Noah Valley - World Heritage Listed Private Rainforest Retreat., Daintree River Wildlife Cruise, All National Park Fees, Umbrellas - Insect Repellent - Filtered water on board -, Air-conditioned vehicle, Driver/Guide with live commentary on board and throughout the day

Exclusions: Daintree Ice Cream - due to the many dietary restrictions

Reviewed By A4600KSbrianl

Our party of four went on the day long adventure with our tour guide Rob. We started off with the drive to Mossman Gorge to see the beauty and tranquility on show (plus the fairly large orb weaver spider outside the building .... not for the faint hearted). Then onto the river cruise on the Daintree to see a few crocodiles. After a couple of other stops we made it to our lunch time destination where we were served a good lunch for some hungry travellers. The 2nd last destination was up to Cape Tribulation. The beauty and serenity of this location must be enjoyed if you are in FNQ. Final destination was to Daintree Ice Cream for a very delicious tasting and then homeward bound. A great day with some incredible scenery, wildlife and locations. A special shout-out to our tour guide Rob who kept us informed all trip with historical tales, jokes and music ..... 5 stars to you ... you made the day ????????????????????. Don’t miss this part of Australia’s beauty if you can

3. Ocean Safari Great Barrier Reef Experience in Cape Tribulation

Turtle Rock Cafe, Cape Tribulation Rd, Cape Tribulation QLD 4873, Australia Ocean Safari
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4.9 based on 561 reviews

Enjoy a 4.5-hour experience at the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef at Cape Tribulation. This half-day eco-tour visits two different snorkel destinations, each with an extraordinary array of marine life and coral species. Get ready to snorkel, alongside sea turtles, two fabulous locations at Mackay and Undine Reefs. Swim over reefs full of colorful coral, along with myriads of tropical fish, eagle rays, giant clams, and starfish.

Inclusions: Visit two reef sites, 2 hours exploring the underwater world and swimming with turtles, Use of Snorkelling equipment, Reef interpretation talks and eco appreciation presentations, Courtesy pick up and drop off

Exclusions: Sunsuit/wetsuits available for hire, Food and drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By SMorris2014

Fun 4 hour snorkeling trip to Mackay Reef off Cape Tribulation. Saw lots of cool fish & reef, a turtle & lots of sting rays. Fun crew & cool fast boat ride out to the reef. Only got to go to one snorkeling spot, due to current. But this was a great spot on a sand bar.

4. Daintree River Sunset Cruise

Daintree River Wild Watch, Daintree Jetty, Stuart Street, Daintree QLD 4873, Australia Daintree River Wild Watch
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4.9 based on 38 reviews

As the wind tends to drop late in the afternoon, you can observe some of the birds out and about looking for that last meal of the day, or flying down to the water bathing, before retiring for the night. Large saltwater crocodiles are often seen sun baking in the afternoon sun, tree snakes come out to the edge of the native hibiscus with Ulysses and Cairns Birdwing butterflies often flying over head. Watching hundreds of Cattle Egrets flying low over the water on their way down river to roost for the night, and the fragrance of some of the Native rainforest tree species flowering, (especially Ylang Ylang, Cananga odorata which tends to disperse their perfume late evening) all add to the river experience. You then finish your Daintree River birdwatching tour with some magical sunsets, (as with everything, it's up to Mother Nature... but then again Mother Nature has a special interest in the Daintree River).

Inclusions: Includes all fees and taxes, Binoculars, and species lists available, The boat has retractable roof for sun and rain protection and ponchos are provided if weather requires

Exclusions: Food and drinks are not provided, however you are welcome to bring them aboard.

Reviewed By jcwm_10

We had such a wonderful evening on the cruise. Our tour guide Sauce was a wealth of knowledge and such a lovely person. The breeze was refreshing and it was such a nice way to see the Daintree from the river. We also spotted 2 crocodiles and plenty of flora and fauna

5. Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns - only 25 guests

1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom
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4.9 based on 186 reviews

Extremely low passenger number Great Barrier Reef & Green Island tour (max 25 guests). In fact the only small sail, reef and tropical island experience in Cairns. Swim, snorkel or dive straight off the boat onto an exclusive magnificent GBR site - no crowds .The boat is moored just 1Km off Green Island - a highly protected Marine Park zone . From Cairns, sail to this reef site and Green Island in style on a two-mast schooner and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board. After snorkelling off the boat take a tender transfer to explore the beauty of Green Island, see the rainforest or laze on the white sandy beaches .

Inclusions: Sailing cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef, Environment Management Charge and port fees, Coffee and/or Tea, Large smorgasbord lunch with seafood, Morning and Afternoon tea, Complimentary glass of wine on the return sail to Cairns, Snorkeling tuition, tours and in-water crew assistance if required, Snorkeling equipment (snorkel, marks, flippers, buoyancy vests), Transfers to/from the schooner to Green Island, Reef talk by a marine interpreter, Fish Feed

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Pre-book only if have no past or present medical issues nor taking any medication. Enquire if unsure, Optional diving - x 1-2 Certified / x 1-2 Intro dives possible on day .10-12m depth .

Reviewed By 863tinaw

We knew we were going to be in for a great day when it started with the staff at the booking office, they were just great! We wanted to avoid the large packed trips to green island, instead wanted a more intimate experience. The sail boat was perfect! There was about 17 of us on the boat and we motored to green island with the sun out, an amazing crew and fantastic food. We stopped for snorkeling and lunch whilst some did the diving, including my hubby. Again Ben and his crew were definitely the best crew we have had and over the yrs we have done many boat trips. The stop at green island was perfect and chance to explore the island and have a wine or two. Back in the boat they, this time turned off the motor and opened up the sails and omg. This was an experience I will never forget. True sailing, impeccable service, you definitely won’t go hungry on this boat!! We absolutely loved our day and will definitely be back. Thank you so very very much for adding to our memories of exceptional times ❤️????❤️

6. Solar Whisper Daintree River Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise

362 Cape Tribulation Rd, Lower Daintree QLD 4873, Australia Solar Whisper Wildlife and Crocodile Cruises on the Daintree river
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4.9 based on 454 reviews

1 hour Daintree River wildlife and crocodile cruise on the only solar electric boat on the Daintree river. The boat it is nice and quiet and there are no petrol fumes or exhaust , it is also good for getting close to the wildlife without disturbing it. We aim to treat this fragile ecosystem with respect and have minimal impact, our boat does not create a wake so we do not erode the mangroves. We are the only boat with "Croc Cam"; a digital video with a very good zoom for showing hard to see animals on a big screen. Wildlife includes Salt Water Crocodiles, snakes, frogs, and birds and also interpretation of the mangrove environment. The business is locally family owned and operated and has been going since 2002. We offer a unique eco experience with minimal impact; see, hear and smell nature at its best. We also offer longer two or three hour cruises by bookings only, maximum 10 people great for photography or those that want a longer more personalised tour.

Inclusions: Driver guide, admission ticket, Commentary, River cruise, Small group tour, Local Tea & Coffee,

Exclusions: Hotel pick up, insect repellant and raincoats (available to purchase)

Reviewed By R7451BJhelenh

Great trip! Our guide, Mark, was really knowledgeable and managed to find us 3 big crocs and some of their babies. Highly recommend.

7. Outer Barrier Reef Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure from Port Douglas

Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, 44 Wharf St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia Sailaway
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4.9 based on 107 reviews

Set sail from Port Douglas for a day of snorkeling and adventure on the Outer Barrier Reef.Immersed in the northern frontier of Great Barrier Reef, this is the perfect sailing and snorkelling adventure for a conservation minded visitor. Ideally suited to those who can swim and have a spirit of fun and adventure.  The white sands of the coral cays are surrounded by tropical waters filled with fish, turtles and coral. This smaller cruise is limited to just 45 passengers, ensuring good company and helpful assistance from the crew. A buffet lunch is included, along with a reef interpretation talk, a guided snorkel tour and a glass-bottom boat with an expert marine biologist as your guide.Discerning guests can fully enjoy an inspiring full day of adventure using wind power to the absolutely stunning sand cays on the Great Barrier Reef in the most environmentally way!

Inclusions: Great Barrier Reef sailing cruise, Morning and afternoon tea, pastries and muffins, Gourmet Buffet lunch, Use of snorkel equipment and instruction, Guided snorkel tour with marine biologist, Glass-bottom boat tour, Time to explore the pristine coral cays, Hotel pickup and drop-off (Port Douglas only), Lunch, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Drinks (available for purchase on board), Environmental Management Charge (AU$6.50 per person payable on check-in on the day of travel)

Reviewed By Gillian K

This activity was the highlight of my tropical Queensland holiday. I love how they provided instant foot cleaning stations and kept the boat pristine all day. There is nothing like a sailing vessel when you’re looking for an ocean adventure, but this one was top class. The service was exceptional, a small group of guests and the “crunchies” delicious. Pablo was so knowledgeable, engaging and fun! So glad I chose this one!

8. Morning Half Day Tour

Daintree Discovery Tours
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4.9 based on 59 reviews

We are the only company that can get you out to the stunning Cassowary Falls. It is only accessible through private property, keeping it nice and quiet for us.

Inclusions: Scrumptious scones, jam and cream, along with any beveridge (non alcoholic) of your choice., Noodles and rescue tube available to help float around in the swimming area.

Exclusions:

Reviewed By raxhs

Really enjoyable day, met some cool people, and the guide was knowledgeable and relaxed. The absolute highlight was 4WDing to a waterfall and taking a swim! So fun, and was absolutely beautiful.

9. Barron Gorge National Park Half-Day White Water Rafting from Cairns or Port Douglas

Foaming Fury
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4.9 based on 530 reviews

Enjoy an outdoor adventure in Queensland with a 2-hour white-water rafting tour in Barron Gorge National Park. This experience is a suitable introduction to river rafting for first-timers, providing an exhilarating time with a rafting guide. Take in rainforest views along the Barron River as you navigate rapids up to grade III. When booking, you have the option to include pickup in Cairns and the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas, or drive yourself to the starting point.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Cairns or Port Douglas with transport by air-conditioned coach, Safety equipment, River guide, National park fees, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: AU$30 river levy (payable direct), Optional extras such as shoe rental ($5), Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Snacks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By L2829PTmeganh

Loved it! Friendly staff, made it super fun and enjoyable! Had good knowledge of the area. Lots of laughs, definitely recommend!

10. Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Snorkel and Dive Cruise from Cairns by Luxury Catamaran

1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia Passions of Paradise Reef Tour
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4.8 based on 1,061 reviews

Dive, snorkel and sail the Great Barrier Reef with an award-winning company with 30 years’ experience operating personalized day tours to the Great Barrier Reef. The 80-foot catamaran sails from Cairns to two unique locations where you can choose to dive or snorkel with colorful fish, turtles and an amazing array of coral. With a choice of 27 outer Great Barrier Reef destinations your friendly crew can select the location best suited to the weather offering you the best possible Great Barrier Reef experience on a luxury purpose built catamaran!

Inclusions: A stylish fast modern catamaran visiting two exclusive outer reef locations, Morning tea/coffee & mini muffins, Hot and cold chef prepared buffet lunch, Afternoon tea/coffee, fresh fruit, cheese & crackers, Complimentary Snorkel tour and tuition, Use of Snorkelling equipment, A marine naturalist presentation, All marine park fees and levies, Winter Wet Suits or Summer Sun Suits, Prescription Masks, $20 p/p levy included in price - Only $10 charged until June 30th 2021

Exclusions: Underwater Camera hire: AU$60 with an 8GB micro SD card or AU$40 with your own card, Soft drinks and alcohol available at the bar (cash and credit cards accepted), Return transfers; Cairns City $18p/p. Cairns Northern Beaches $25p/p - Must be booked in advance, Carbon offset - Offset your carbon foot print for only $1p/p

Reviewed By fionas227

What an amazing day we had on the reef with this company. This is our 2nd trip with them and they didn’t disappoint! We arrived on board to realise my husband had forgotten his hat. No problem as Erin quickly sourced a spare hat belonging to another crew member Darcy. What a lovely pair! Erin was amazing as a snorkel guide, like a mermaid, and Darcy was so easy to chat to and generous with his time, even seeing us to our shuttle at the end of the day. Skipper Craig, what a nice guy and so professional. The owner Scotty was also onboard, and clearly involved and supportive. Russell, gave the talk about the reef....informative, engaging and inspiring. He needs a big screen! Ada, Kirsty.... the whole crew were so darn happy! Oh I nearly forgot.... the strawberry fudge!!!!!

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