Cairns Marina Cairns
Cairns Marina: Your vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, world-class fishing, and stunning waterfront dining.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for reef tours
Cairns Marina Cairns
Best Time
Fewer crowds for reef tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cairns Marina: Your vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, world-class fishing, and stunning waterfront dining.
"Fantastic marina location, easy walk into town and nearby outdoor recreation areas."
Book Reef Tours Early
Secure your Great Barrier Reef adventure in advance, especially if you prefer smaller groups .
Consider Port Douglas Departure
For potentially better reef conditions and fewer crowds, travel north to Port Douglas for your GBR trip .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Great Barrier Reef Adventures
Departing from Cairns Marina
Snorkel, dive, or cruise the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Experience vibrant coral and marine life.
Prawn Star Experience
Cairns Marina
Dine on fresh seafood aboard a unique floating restaurant with stunning marina views.
Superyacht Spotting
Cairns Marlin Marina
Marvel at impressive superyachts like M/Y Octopus docked at Australia's largest dedicated superyacht berth.

Sunset Views
Cairns Marina Boardwalk
Enjoy picturesque sunsets over the water, a perfect end to a day of exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Great Barrier Reef Access
Marina Navigation & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Reef Tours Early
Secure your Great Barrier Reef adventure in advance, especially if you prefer smaller groups.
Consider Port Douglas Departure
For potentially better reef conditions and fewer crowds, travel north to Port Douglas for your GBR trip.
Explore Marina Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at the Prawn Star or explore other restaurants with marina views.
Look for Superyachts
Keep an eye out for impressive superyachts docked at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Reef Tours Early
Secure your Great Barrier Reef adventure in advance, especially if you prefer smaller groups.
Consider Port Douglas Departure
For potentially better reef conditions and fewer crowds, travel north to Port Douglas for your GBR trip.
Explore Marina Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at the Prawn Star or explore other restaurants with marina views.
Look for Superyachts
Keep an eye out for impressive superyachts docked at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Check Marina Signage
Navigating the marina can involve long walks; pay attention to signage for boat and ferry transfers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cairns Marina for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and fantastic location, especially for accessing the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying waterfront dining. While some find the marina a bit pricey and note that signage could be improved, the overall experience is highly positive, with many highlighting the beautiful views and convenient amenities.
"Has some great food places along the marina the views over the mountains are beautiful"
donna walters
"Very clean place with amazing and helpful staff. Easy to navigate and go around."
India Sjunnesson
"Had a wonderful week in Cairns staying at the Marlin Marina. Booking was easy, the staff were super-friendly and helpful and the marina location is fantastic - easy walk into town and nearby outdoor recreation areas (including a great swimming pool and bbq areas). I was able to have parcels delivered to the marina office for collection when I arrived and there are loads of bars, restaurants and boating tours just off the pontoons. Not the cheapest marina - but well worth it."
Ty Gwynt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cairns Marina is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. It's a central hub in Cairns, often a starting point for many tours and activities. If you're arriving by ferry to Green Island, the ferry departs from the Marina.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Cairns Marina, though it can be busy. It's advisable to check specific parking rates and availability beforehand, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period.
Absolutely. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in Cairns and can drop you off directly at the marina.
The most convenient ways to travel from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Cairns Marina are by taxi, rideshare, or airport shuttle service. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
Yes, Sunbus operates services that stop near Cairns Marina, making it an accessible option for those looking for budget-friendly transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cairns Marina itself is a public area and generally free to enter and walk around. However, you will need to purchase tickets for specific tours and activities departing from the marina, such as Great Barrier Reef trips.
You can book Great Barrier Reef tours online in advance through various tour operators, or in person at the numerous tour booking offices located within the marina precinct. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for popular tours.
Tour departure times vary depending on the specific tour operator and destination. Most reef tours depart in the morning, typically between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. It's essential to check your booking confirmation for exact timings.
Discounts can sometimes be found through online travel agencies, package deals, or by booking directly with operators during promotional periods. Keep an eye out for special offers.
While some tours may have availability on the day, it's highly recommended to book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially for smaller group tours or during peak travel seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Besides being a departure point for the Great Barrier Reef and other tours, you can enjoy dining at waterfront restaurants like the Prawn Star, spot impressive superyachts, and take in beautiful sunset views.
Yes, Cairns Marina offers scenic boardwalks for walking. However, some visitors have noted that signage could be improved for easier navigation to specific boats.
Absolutely! Cairns Marina boasts a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, including the popular Prawn Star seafood experience.
Yes, you might spot juvenile fish like Batfish near the marina structures, which often hide in sheltered areas before heading to the open reefs. Keep an eye out!
The marina offers essential amenities for boaters and visitors, including restrooms, showers, and a marina office. Many tour operators also provide facilities for their passengers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Prawn Star is a highly recommended unique floating seafood restaurant. Other options include The Backyard Cairns and restaurants within the Shangri-La Marina Cairns.
Yes, Cairns Marina is known for its fresh seafood. The Prawn Star experience is a prime example of enjoying the catch of the day right on the water.
While some dining can be upscale, you can find more casual options and cafes. Packing snacks or having a picnic at nearby Esplanade Lagoon can also be a budget-friendly choice.
Many restaurants and cafes at Cairns Marina offer beautiful views of the water, the boats, and the surrounding mountains, especially during sunset.
Yes, hotels and cafes within the marina complex, such as the Shangri-La Marina Cairns, offer breakfast options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the boats, the marina architecture, and the picturesque sunsets. The superyachts also make for impressive subjects.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the water and boats.
You might spot smaller marine life like juvenile fish near the marina structures. For more extensive marine photography, a Great Barrier Reef tour is essential.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, be mindful of private vessels and any specific security notices posted within the marina.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the marina and the boats. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details or distant superyachts. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that include lunch and provide all necessary snorkeling gear. The Esplanade Lagoon, a short walk from the marina, is also a fantastic free option for families to cool off and play in a safe, supervised environment. Dining at the marina can be a treat, with options like the Prawn Star offering a unique experience, though it might be more suited for older children who appreciate seafood.
🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts
Many charters offer full-day excursions, providing all the necessary equipment and expertise. The marina buzzes with activity during fishing seasons and tournaments, offering a vibrant atmosphere for anglers. Even if you're not fishing, observing the boats and the passion of the anglers can be an exciting experience.
🚢 Superyacht Spotters
Keep an eye out for these giants of the sea; their sheer size and intricate designs are a sight to behold. The presence of these yachts highlights Cairns' growing importance in the international yachting circuit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns
When selecting a reef tour, consider factors like group size and the type of reef experience. Some travelers recommend departing from Port Douglas for potentially less crowded and healthier sections of the reef. Popular destinations include Michaelmas Cay and Green Island. Remember to book in advance, especially if you have specific preferences like avoiding pontoons or seeking smaller group sizes.
Beyond the reef itself, many tours offer insights into marine biology and conservation efforts. The sheer biodiversity, with thousands of species of fish and coral, makes it a truly unforgettable adventure. Keep an eye out for diverse marine life, from colorful fish to majestic sea turtles.
Cairns Marina: A Hub for Boating and Dining
For those looking to savor the local flavors, the marina offers a fantastic culinary scene. The Prawn Star is a standout, providing a unique floating seafood restaurant experience with incredibly fresh catches. Other establishments, like The Backyard Cairns and restaurants within the Shangri-La Marina Cairns, offer diverse dining options with beautiful waterfront views.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the boardwalks, taking in the sights and sounds of the marina. While generally well-maintained, some have noted that signage could be improved for easier navigation. The marina also provides essential amenities for boaters and is a convenient location for accessing town and recreational areas.
Fishing Adventures from Cairns
Whether you're interested in marlin fishing, sailfish, or other sport fishing opportunities, the marina provides access to experienced charter operators. These charters often depart early in the morning, equipped for a full day out on the water. The competitive spirit of fishing tournaments is palpable, with events like the White Marlin Open drawing significant attention.
Even if you're not a seasoned angler, the energy and excitement surrounding the fishing scene at Cairns Marina are infectious. You might witness impressive catches being brought in or simply enjoy the spectacle of the fishing vessels preparing for their expeditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit