FerryConnect

Australia

Cairns → Fitzroy Island

The Fitzroy Island Flyer links Cairns with Welcome Bay on Fitzroy Island, a national-park island with fringing reef, rainforest walks to the summit lighthouse and a turtle rehabilitation centre.

⏱ About 45m🚢 1 operator📅 3 departures daily each way
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Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Cairns to Fitzroy Island takes About 45m across the Coral Sea (Great Barrier Reef), operated by Fitzroy Island Resort (Fitzroy Island Flyer). It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: 3 departures daily each way.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: fitzroyisland.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Fitzroy Island to Cairns

Fitzroy Island Resort (Fitzroy Island Flyer) also sails Fitzroy Island to Cairns, taking About 45m. Return sailings leave Fitzroy Island at 9:30am, 12:15pm and 5:00pm.

Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

3 departures daily from Cairns and 3 from Fitzroy Island

In February and March the 11am ex-Cairns and 12:15pm ex-Fitzroy sailings do not run Monday–Thursday.

Published departure times

  • 8:00am
  • 11:00am
  • 1:30pm

Return: Return sailings leave Fitzroy Island at 9:30am, 12:15pm and 5:00pm.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Fitzroy Island Resort (Fitzroy Island Flyer) timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Fitzroy Island Resort getting-here page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Cairns and Fitzroy Island

📐 13 Nautical Miles
Cairns⇄Fitzroy Island
⏱ About 45m · 📐 13 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Fitzroy Island Resort (Fitzroy Island Flyer)45mFitzroy Island Flyer

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

13 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Departs Marlin Wharf “A Finger”, Berth 20, at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure from Cairns.

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from CairnsCairns → Green IslandAbout 45m · Great AdventuresMore ferries in AustraliaGeelong → Devonport (Tasmania)10h – 11h (day or overnight) · Spirit of TasmaniaMore ferries in AustraliaSydney (Circular Quay) → Manly18m – 30m · Sydney Ferries, Manly Fast FerryMore ferries in AustraliaCape Jervis → Kangaroo Island (Penneshaw)45m · SeaLinkMore ferries in AustraliaFremantle → Rottnest Island25m – 30m · Rottnest Express, SeaLink Rottnest IslandMore ferries in AustraliaKettering → Bruny Island15m – 20m · SeaLink
⚓ Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal guide⛴ All ferries from Cairns🗺 All ferries in Australia🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Cairns to Fitzroy Island?
The crossing typically takes About 45m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry sail?
3 departures daily from Cairns and 3 from Fitzroy Island. In February and March the 11am ex-Cairns and 12:15pm ex-Fitzroy sailings do not run Monday–Thursday. This is the pattern published in the Fitzroy Island Resort getting-here page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Cairns to Fitzroy Island?
Fitzroy Island Resort (Fitzroy Island Flyer) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Cairns to Fitzroy Island ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Cairns from Fitzroy Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 13 nautical miles (roughly 24 km).