Special Snorkel Offer with SeaQuest: Save $50! 

In exciting news, a special snorkeling offer with SeaQuest is now available. At just $189 per person, this limited-time offer is valid until March 31, 2024. 

OceanQuest is Back

The OceanQuest liveaboard has successfully undergone maintenance and is now ready to welcome guests aboard for memorable Great Barrier Reef adventures.

Frankland Islands Tour

The one and only Frankland Islands tour is making a comeback on March 13, 2024. After receiving its share of care and maintenance, the tour is poised to offer guests it's unique island experience.

Kuranda Scenic Railway resumes it's regular schedule from the 2nd of March 2024, with two return daily services. 



Morning:

Cairns via Freshwater to Kuranda Village

Cairns Central Station | 8:30am, 9:30am

Freshwater Station | 8:50am, 9:50am

Afternoon:

Kuranda Station to Cairns via Freshwater

Kuranda Station | 2pm, 3:30pm

• Travel time between Cairns and Freshwater Stations is 15 minutes.


• Travel time between Cairns and Kuranda Stations is 2 Hours.


• Travel time between Freshwater and Kuranda Stations is 1 Hour and 30 minutes.

The Great Barrier Reef, a jewel off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is not only famous for its vibrant coral and teeming marine life but also as a stage for one of nature's most magnificent performances: the annual whale migration. This spectacle draws nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers from around the globe, eager to witness these gentle giants. 

The whale watching season along the Great Barrier Reef is primarily between June and September. This period marks the migration of several whale species, including the awe-inspiring humpback and the elusive minke whales, as they travel to the warmer waters off the coast of Queensland to breed and give birth before heading back to the Antarctic.

Humpback Whales

Humpback whales, known for their impressive acrobatics and haunting songs, are the main attraction. They start to make their appearance in the waters off Cairns around June, with sightings peaking through July and August. These months are ideal for witnessing these majestic creatures as they breach, tail slap, and nurse their young, offering a spectacular show to those fortunate enough to be in their presence.

Dwarf Minke Whales

The Great Barrier Reef is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with dwarf minke whales, an experience offered during a limited window from June to July. These curious and playful creatures often approach swimmers, providing an unforgettable and intimate wildlife interaction.

Whale Watching Experiences from Cairns

For the best whale watching experience, consider booking a tour that specifically targets whale sightings. Many operators from Cairns offer day trips to the Outer Reef, where the chances of encountering whales are higher. These tours not only provide the opportunity to see whales but also to explore the stunning underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.

Fitzroy Island Adventures provides a unique opportunity for whale watching tours from Cairns and Fitzroy Island during the season. Additionally, other reef service providers may also offer special whale watching tours, typically announcing these exclusive experiences before the season starts each year.

Witnessing the migration of whales on the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience thatis available in Cairns between June and September.

Kuranda Scenic Rail Services Notification 

Following ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Kuranda Scenic Railway (KSR) had major track damage at 61 sites along the railway line.  Queensland Rail Network Asset teams have been working tirelessly to restore KSR services as quickly and safely as possible.

We are pleased to advise that KSR will be able to resume operations sooner than expected. KSR will initially resume operations with two weekend services:  

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 February 2024

Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 February 2024

• 0830hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda 


• 0930hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda 


• 1400hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns 


• 1530hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns 

KSR will then return to normal operations from Saturday 2 March 2024 

If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef, the stars have aligned just for you. From Monday, 5th to Wednesday, 7th of February, we're blessed with absolutely stellar weather conditions.

Wind Forecast

Gentle breezes at just 10 knots for the entire period, creating ideal conditions for sailing, snorkeling, and diving. These mild winds mean smoother waters, clearer visibility underwater, and an all-around pleasant experience whether you're on or in the water.

This is a great opportunity to witness the reef's vibrant marine life & stunning coral gardens.

Tropic Wings are set to launch an electric coach tour to the Daintree.

This innovative move by Tropic Wings highlights their commitment to cleean energy and promoting eco-friendly travel. The tour is not just an exploration of the breathtaking World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge, but also a landmark in sustainable tourism.

The tour features an array of inclusive experiences, from an exclusive wildlife encounter and a relaxing morning tea to a delightful cafe lunch. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to visit Mossman Gorge and enjoy a captivating crocodile cruise.

• Weekend services will commence late Feb 2024


• Full weekly service expected to commence late April 2024

In the wake of ex-tropical cyclone Jasper, the Kuranda Range rail line faced substantial damage, including major track washouts, significant landslips, uprooted trees, and debris blocking the tracks at 61 different locations along the range. Despite the challenges, Queensland Rail's dedicated crews have been working diligently, prioritizing safety and speed to restore services.

We are pleased to report significant progress in this restoration effort, with 39 out of the 61 damaged sites now cleared. 

Starting from late February, services will resume on weekends only. This strategic approach will provide our hardworking crews access to the rail track from Monday to Friday, enabling them to continue fortifying the rail corridor against future extreme weather events.

We anticipate completing our long-term restoration works by late April, which will allow us to return to our regular timetable. Rest assured that we will keep you informed of our progress, especially in the event that recovery efforts face setbacks due to heavy rain or other severe weather conditions.

The Douglas Shire Council has issued an update regarding the efforts to reopen the main road north of the Daintree River. The Council's crews are diligently working to ensure safe and accessible routes for locals and visitors.

Noah's Range Access

• As of now, the road at Noah's Range is open but only under escort and strictly for local traffic.


• Starting from Wednesday, 17th January, the road will be accessible from 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM, and then again from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM, in both directions.


• The crews are set to undertake a complex clearing job on top of Noah’s Range, which is both challenging and essential for safety.


• The Council is seeking cooperation and understanding from the community as they navigate this delicate operation, hoping for favorable weather conditions.


• These traffic conditions will remain in effect until it is deemed safe to fully reopen the road.

Alexandra Range Access

• The Alexandra Range is currently open from 6:45 AM to 5:15 PM, exclusively for local traffic. This schedule facilitates road inspections and the removal of traffic control devices overnight.


• Vehicles are restricted to a maximum of 25 tonnes and a length limit of 12.5 meters, applicable to all vehicles including trailers, buses, and trucks.


• The Council's team is continuously monitoring the road conditions for any necessary updates.


• Given that large sections of the Alexandra Range are single-laned and controlled by traffic lights, drivers are advised to proceed with caution.

Daintree Ferry Service

The Daintree Ferry is operational daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Here is the current status of the Daintree Rainforest following the recent impact of Cyclone Jasper. This natural event has significantly affected our beloved rainforest, leading to flooding, landslides, and damage to the infrastructure, particularly the roads.

The roads north of Cairns, leading to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation, have been notably impacted. To ensure the safety of all visitors and the integrity of our natural surroundings, these roads are currently undergoing extensive repair work. As a result, access to these areas is temporarily closed.

We understand the disappointment this may cause to many who have been looking forward to experiencing the unique beauty of the Daintree Rainforest. However, we are committed to restoring access as quickly and safely as possible.

The good news is that we are making steady progress, and we are optimistic about reopening soon. We are pleased to announce that most Daintree day tours are now accepting new bookings for Cape Tribulation, Daintree, and Mossman Gorge starting from the 12th of January 2024.

We are incredibly grateful for your patience and understanding during this time of recovery. The resilience of the Daintree Rainforest is remarkable, and we are committed to preserving its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

We look forward to welcoming you back to this special part of the world, where you can once again immerse yourself in the lush greenery, unique wildlife, and serene landscapes that make the Daintree Rainforest a truly unforgettable destination.

Thank you for your continued support, and please stay tuned for further updates.

Due to the impacts of Cyclone Jasper and subsequent flooding, including damage to the Barron Gorge hydro station and road closures, Barron River Rafting will be paused until approximately May 2024. 

We're working on an alternate afternoon rafting trip, depending on water conditions. Stay tuned for updates on this alternative experience.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Safety is our priority, and we're committed to resuming our thrilling rafting adventures as soon as conditions allow.

We regret to inform you that our beloved Barron River Rafting experience has encountered an unforeseen interruption. Cyclone Jasper, which recently swept through the area, has significantly impacted the Barron Gorge region, leading to extensive flooding and consequential damages.

The severity of the situation has necessitated the closure of several roads and, most critically, has affected the Barron Gorge hydro station. This station is pivotal for maintaining the consistent water levels required for our rafting activities. As a result of these developments, we are currently unable to operate our Barron River Rafting tours.

After careful assessment and consideration for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, we have concluded that these tours will likely remain unavailable until approximately May 2024. We understand the disappointment this may cause to those who were looking forward to this thrilling experience, and we share in your sentiment.

However, all is not lost for rafting enthusiasts! We are actively working on providing an alternate afternoon rafting trip. This alternative will be contingent upon the water levels and the restoration of safe conditions for our rafting adventures. We are committed to ensuring that this alternative experience, when available, will live up to the high standards of excitement and enjoyment that our guests expect from us.

Please stay tuned for more information regarding the alternative rafting tour. We will be providing updates as the situation evolves and as we have more concrete plans in place. 

We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Your safety and satisfaction remain our top priorities, and we are eager to welcome you back for an unforgettable rafting adventure as soon as possible.

Attention all travelers looking forward to the Kuranda experience! While the Kuranda Scenic Rail is temporarily unavailable due to essential maintenance work, we're excited to offer the Skyrail Return option as an alternative.



Maintainance on the Kuranda Scenic Rail line will halt all services until the 12th Feb 2024

Please consider this alternative for your visit to Kuranda while the train services are being upgraded. We assure you an unforgettable experience filled with stunning views and serene moments above the rainforest canopy.

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway!

We wish to advise that due to the ongoing adverse weather conditions and localised flooding associated with the current severe weather warning, Skyrail operations will also be suspended for tomorrow (Tuesday 19th December). We will continue to monitor and provide further updates.

Thank you for your ongoing understanding and support and further information will be provided as it becomes available.

Due to the significant rainfall experienced and ongoing weather conditions associated with ex Tropical Cyclone Jasper, the following alterations for Kuranda Scenic Railway services are in place:

Monday 18 December 2023

• 3K30 – 0830hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda – This service has been cancelled.


• 3K32 – 0930hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda – This service has been cancelled.


• 3C61 – 1400hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns – This service has been cancelled.


• 3C65 – 1530hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns – This service has been cancelled.

All customers that are booked to travel on Kuranda Scenic Railway services for Tuesday 19th December are to be advised that their service may be impacted.  

With the passing of Tropical Cyclone Jasper we are pleased to confirm Skyrail will recommence operations from today (Saturday 16th December).

Again, we apologise for any inconvenience caused during this temporary closure and we thank you for your patience and understanding and look forward to welcoming back guests to Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

We wish to advise that due to the continued adverse weather conditions in Cairns this morning, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway has delayed the planned recommencement of operations.

Skyrail will remain closed today (Friday 15th December). Further updates will be provided in due course regarding our reopening plans.

Again, we apologise for any inconvenience caused during this temporary closure and we thank you for your patience and understanding and look forward to welcoming back guests to Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the ancient rainforest soon!

Due to the significant rainfall experienced and ongoing weather conditions associated with ex Tropical Cyclone Jasper, the following alterations for Kuranda Scenic Railway services are in place:

Sunday 17 December 2023

• 3K30 – 0830hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda – This service has been cancelled. 


• 3K32 – 0930hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda – This service has been cancelled. 


• 3C61 – 1400hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns – This service has been cancelled. 


• 3C65 – 1530hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns – This service has been cancelled. 

All customers that are booked to travel on Kuranda Scenic Railway services for Monday 18 December 2023 are to be advised that their service may be impacted.  

 

Monday 18 December 2023 

• 3K30 – 0830hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda


• 3K32 – 0930hrs ex Cairns to Kuranda


• 3C61 – 1400hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns


• 3C65 – 1530hrs ex Kuranda to Cairns

 

We will continue to monitor the situation and further advice will be sent regarding the status of Kuranda Scenic Railway Services for Monday 18 December 2023.

Queensland Rail Travel sincerely apologises for any inconvenience, and we do appreciate your understanding and continued support. 

As always, the safety of our employees and guests is the number one priority of Queensland Rail.

Due to Tropical Cyclone Jasper’s current trajectory and predicted associated rainfall, this may impact all Kuranda Scenic Railway services for the following dates.

• Tuesday 12th December 2023


• Wednesday 13th December 2023


• Thursday 14th December 2023

A further notification will be issued, if necessary.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Kuranda Scenic Railway have announced their closure dates for the coming year, allowing for scheduled maintenance and observance of key holidays. This announcement is part of their commitment to maintaining high safety and reliability standards for their services.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway:

• Closed on Christmas Day, Monday 25th December 2023.


• May 2024: 6th - 19th (inclusive)


• September 2024: 4th - 10th (inclusive)


• December 2024: 25th (Christmas Day)

Kuranda Scenic Railway:

• Cancelled on Monday 13, Tuesday 14, Wednesday 15, Thursday 16, Friday 17 May 2024.


• Cancelled on Monday 10, Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 June 2024.


• Cancelled on Wednesday 6, Thursday 7, Friday 8 November 2024.


• Does not operate on Christmas Day, services resume on Boxing Day​​.

Green Island is now even more accessible, thanks to the recent acquisition of a new beach wheelchair.

The wheelchair is available for anyone to use free of charge from the Green Island Lifeguard Station on a first-come, first-served basis.

To use the wheelchair, users must sign an indemnity form and take responsibility for their use.

The new wheelchair is a welcome addition to Green Island, which is a popular destination for people of all abilities. It will allow more people to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and scenery.