Queensland’s main cruise ports include Brisbane with three terminals, Cairns (Trinity Wharf), Port Douglas (where you’ll need tender boats), Airlie Beach (your gateway to the Whitsundays), and Townsville where ships dock directly.
Each port brings something different—from bustling city sights to brilliant Great Barrier Reef spots.
Getting about is straightforward from most terminals, with good links to city centres, shops and natural attractions.
Have a look at what makes each port special to make the most of your Queensland cruise holiday.
Brisbane, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Brisbane has three main cruise terminals, making it Queensland’s largest port for cruise ships. You’ll find the Brisbane Cruise Terminal at Portside Wharf, the International Cruise Terminal at Luggage Point, and the Multi-User Terminal at South Brisbane.
From any terminal, you’re a quick 20-minute journey to the city centre. The South Bank’s cultural area is brilliant for a wander, with plenty of riverside cafĂ©s and museums where you can mingle with other travellers. The Botanic Gardens and lively West End neighbourhood are well worth visiting too.
For a proper local outing, hop aboard a CityCat ferry with your fellow passengers and cruise along the Brisbane River—it’s a fantastic way to see the city sights.
Cairns, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Cairns brings cruise ships right to Trinity Wharf, and you can walk to the city centre in about 10 minutes. This lovely tropical spot puts you close to both the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Once you step off the ship, you’re just a stone’s throw from the Esplanade’s shops and places to eat, plus the brilliant Lagoon pool. The Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway are absolute must-sees for stunning views of the region.
Want to see the reef? Loads of boat tours leave from the nearby marina. Just be sure to sort your booking early – the best ones tend to fill up fast.
Port Douglas, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Your ship anchors in the Coral Sea and smaller boats ferry you to Marina Mirage – it’s about a 20-30 minute journey, so give yourself plenty of time.
When you’re on dry land, you’ll find yourself right near Macrossan Street, the busy main strip. Other visitors fancy heading to Four Mile Beach, booking trips to the Great Barrier Reef, or heading out to see the Daintree rainforest.
If you’re lucky enough to be here on a Sunday, pop by the local markets. Most things are an easy walk away, but if you fancy going further afield, there are shuttle buses to take you to lookouts and beaches.
Airlie Beach, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Airlie Beach is where cruise ships drop anchor off the Queensland coast before small tender boats bring you to the mainland. It’s your jumping-off point for the brilliant Whitsunday Islands.
Once you’re on dry land, you’ll be in a lively seaside town with plenty of lovely beaches and crystal-clear waters right at your doorstep. Pop down to the popular Airlie Beach Lagoon with other visitors, or book a trip to stunning spots like Whitehaven Beach, known for its remarkable white silica sand.
While you’re here, make sure to go snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef—it’s an absolute must and puts you face-to-face with one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders.
Townsville, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Your cruise ship pulls right up to the dock in Townsville – no messing about with tender boats here. It’s a brilliant spot to explore Queensland’s mainland and this lovely tropical city.
Take a wander along The Strand, the city’s waterfront walkway, where you’ll see gorgeous views of Magnetic Island across the water. If you fancy a bit of exercise, climb up Castle Hill for some cracking views of the whole area.
The Reef HQ Aquarium is well worth a visit – it’s packed with sea life from the Great Barrier Reef. You can easily stroll from the port to the Museum of Tropical Queensland and the cultural district nearby.
Gladstone, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Gladstone gives cruise passengers a warm welcome at its industrial port city, which has grown into a brilliant tourism spot along Queensland’s coast. You’ll find an interesting mix of industrial heritage and natural wonders as you wander through this changing destination.
- Pop over to Heron Island, a brilliant spot for snorkelling and watching turtles nest
- Stroll around East Shores Precinct with lovely waterfront parks and family areas
- Have a look round the Gladstone Maritime Museum to learn about local sailing history
- Take a walk through Tondoon Botanic Gardens, home to stunning native plants
- Browse local crafts and fresh food at the Gladstone Marina Farmers Market
Moreton Island, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Moreton Island is a natural paradise off Brisbane’s coast – quite different from Gladstone’s industrial feel. Since cruise ships can’t pull right up to the island, you’ll hop on tender boats that ferry you to the beach.
Once you’re there, you’ll be in the middle of untouched coastline, massive sand dunes and clear waters full of sea life. Have a go at sandboarding down the dunes, swim near the old Tangalooma shipwrecks, or join the evening dolphin feeding sessions.
The island’s relaxed nature lets you switch off and enjoy Queensland’s beautiful outdoors – a lovely break from life aboard ship.
Thursday Island, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Set at Queensland’s northernmost tip in the Torres Strait, Thursday Island gives cruise visitors a brilliant look at Australia’s varied cultural mix. This tropical isle brings together Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal traditions with Pacific influences.
Whilst you’re on shore, have a wander around:
- Green Hill Fort for sweeping views and military history displays
- The island’s pearl farms, showing off the traditional trade
- Gab Titui Cultural Centre with its Indigenous art and treasures
- Local restaurants serving up fresh seafood straight from the waters
- Beautiful beaches with clear water perfect for a swim
Your time on Thursday Island puts you right in the heart of Australia’s northernmost communities and their remarkable culture.
Mooloolaba, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Set along Queensland’s gorgeous Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is a lovely spot for cruise ship visitors. When your ship arrives, you’ll anchor offshore and take tender boats to the lively Wharf area.
The moment you step ashore, you’ll feel the laid-back beachside spirit. Take a wander down the Esplanade with its swaying palms, where you’ll find local boutiques and brilliant seafood eateries. The Fish Market is worth a visit – the locals swear by it!
If you fancy a swim, the beautiful beach is just a short walk from where you dock. From May to November, you can join a boat trip to see whales, or head to Australia Zoo nearby, which Steve Irwin made world-famous.
Cooktown, Queensland Cruise Ship Port Guide
Cooktown is a brilliant mix of Indigenous and colonial history, and cruise ship visitors can see a fascinating slice of Australia’s past right here. The town is where Captain James Cook ended up fixing his ship back in 1770.
When you’re in port, you can visit:
- The James Cook Museum, set in a beautiful old 19th-century convent
- Grassy Hill Lookout with stunning views across the Endeavour River
- Local Indigenous cultural activities showing off Guugu Yimithirr traditions
- Walking tracks through the lovely Finch Bay
- Local markets full of handmade items and regional treats
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for Cruising Queensland?
Come along for brilliant sailing in Queensland from May to October. With mild, dry winter days, it’s when the weather’s at its best. Loads of fellow sailors choose these months for their memorable trips along the coast.
Are There Direct Ferry Services Between Queensland Cruise Ports?
Nope, there aren’t any direct ferry services running between Queensland’s cruise ports. It’s quite far between Brisbane, Cairns and other ports, so if you fancy travelling port-to-port along Queensland’s coast, you’ll need to go by cruise ship instead.
How Does Australian Customs Work for Cruise Ship Passengers?
The Australian customs process runs quite smoothly for cruise ship passengers. You’ll sort out your arrival cards, go through immigration, and do your security bits whilst still aboard the ship. The whole thing’s rather simple – everyone arriving goes through the same steps.
Which Queensland Ports Offer Overnight Stays for Cruise Ships?
Brisbane, Cairns and the Whitsundays (Airlie Beach) all welcome cruise ships for overnight stays. You can spend more time exploring these lovely ports, soaking up the local nightlife and getting to know Queensland’s culture properly after dark.
What Currency Should I Use at Queensland Cruise Ports?
Simply pack Australian Dollars (AUD) for Queensland cruise ports – it’s your best bet. Most shops and stalls won’t take other money, so having local currency means you’ll fit right in with everyone else.
