How to get to Green Island Cairns

Green Island is 27 kilometres from Cairns.

As you can see on the map, Green Island is a destination that is very accessible from Cairns in North Queensland.  Enjoy a forty-five-minute boat ride from the Cairns Marlin Marina to Green Island.  Visitors are required to check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal before boarding.

First, take a flight with Jetstar, Qantas or Virgin Australia from any major city in Australia to Cairns.

Next, Check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal

Reef Fleet Terminal

The Reef Fleet Terminal is at 1 Spence Street, Cairns.  Inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, you will find many desks for your Green Island Adventure tour.  You will be looking for Great Adventures.

Then make your way to the Reef Fleet Terminal for check-in before boarding the Green Island Ferry for a comfortable 45-minute transfer.

Alternatively, it is also possible to take a spectacular helicopter flight for those who want to arrive in style.

Getting around

Green Island is 1.6 kilometres in circumference, so it is effortless to cover most, if not all, of the island on foot during your day trip.

There are marked walks through the rainforest, or it is straightforward to plot your adventure.

While joining the activities, you can keep your belongings safely stored in coin-operated lockers.

Traveller Information

 

Don’t worry; it is possible to open your locker many times during the hire period should you need a change of accessories or a stop for refreshments.

Travel

The warm waters make it possible to visit Green Island all year round, even during the Australian winter months of July and August.

There are boardwalks and tracks suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

You can check out the restaurant, cafe and gift shop during your stay there.

What to bring

  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimmers and towel
  • Suncream

Once you arrive, see our Green Island map to find your way around.

Temperature

The average ocean water temperature ranges from 22-24 degrees Celsius.  Average daily air temperatures are around 25 degrees Celsius.  Please find out more by visiting our weather page.

Several operators offer daily boat transfers to Green Island, with many different departure times each day.

Fast catamarans provide excellent travel conditions, even when the weather is unpleasant.

Travellers who suffer from motion sickness can opt for medicinal or natural remedies.

The short travel time makes it an ideal option for visitors, particularly those who may not be comfortable with sea travel, to experience the Great Barrier Reef.

Spectacular Helicopter Transfers

Green Island Scenic Helicopter flights

Helicopter tours depart year-round for those looking for a different kind of adventure.  

It is a great idea to book a helicopter transfer in advance.  This transfer includes a spectacular 20-minute scenic flight over Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.