Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Port Douglas is a hub for tours, and many based out of Cairns also pick up from here, in-
cluding some white-water rafting and hot-air ballooning trips. Conversely, many of the
following tours departing from Port Douglas also offer pick-ups from Cairns and Cairns'
northern beaches.
Great Barrier Reef
The outer reef is closer to Port Douglas than it is to Cairns, and the unrelenting surge of
visitors has had a similar impact on its condition here. You will still see colourful corals
and marine life, but it is patchy in parts.
Most day tours depart from Marina Mirage. Tour prices usually include reef tax, snor-
kelling, transfers from your accommodation, lunch and refreshments.
An introductory, controlled scuba dive, with no certification or experience necessary,
costs around $250, with additional dives around $50; certified divers will pay around
$260 for two dives with all gear included.
Several operators visit the Low Isles, a small group of islands surrounded by beautiful
coral reef just 15km offshore; you've got a great chance for spotting turtles here.
CRUISE
Quicksilver
( 07-4087 2100;
www.quicksilver-cruises.com
;
adult/child $219/110)
Major operator with fast cruises to
Agincourt Reef. Try an 'ocean walk' helmet dive ($155) on a submerged platform. Also
offers scenic helicopter flights from the pontoon on the reef ($159, minimum two passen-
gers).
Sailaway
( 07-4099 4772;
www.sailawayportdouglas.com
; adult/child $215/130)
Popular sailing and snorkelling
trip to the Low Isles that's great for families. Also offers 90-minute twilight sails ($50) off
the coast of Port Douglas.
SAILING, SNORKELLING
SAILING
Sail Tallarook
( 07-4099 4070;
www.sailtallarook.com.au
; adult/ child half-day sail $99/75)
Historic 30-metre yacht.
Sunset cruises ($50, Tuesday and Thursday) include cheese platters; BYO drinks.
Reef Sprinter
MAP
SNORKELLING, BOATING
GOOGLE MAP
