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Cairns Airport
CNS • YBCS
66 km • 66 km drive
Primary gateway for Port Douglas with frequent domestic connections and seasonal international links.
Transport: Seat-in-coach shuttle buses, Private transfers, Rental cars
Logistics · Destination Guide
Outer reef day boats, minke whales, and ancient rainforest on one doorstep
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 21 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Fly into Cairns Airport (CNS). Port Douglas is a scenic 66 km coastal drive north via the Captain Cook Highway. Shared shuttles, private transfers, and rental cars are available at the airport. All reef trips depart Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas.
Cairns Airport
CNS • YBCS
66 km • 66 km drive
Primary gateway for Port Douglas with frequent domestic connections and seasonal international links.
Transport: Seat-in-coach shuttle buses, Private transfers, Rental cars
In-town walking and local shuttles cover most needs. Airport transfers run scheduled services. Rideshare availability in Port Douglas is limited compared to Cairns. Rental cars offer the most flexibility for Daintree and Cape Tribulation.
Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or an eVisitor (subclass 651) depending on nationality. Both typically allow multiple entries up to 3 months per visit in a 12-month period. Apply via the official channels and the Australian ETA app where applicable. Carry proof of onward travel and comply with biosecurity rules.
Day boats supply tanks, weights, masks, fins, and stinger suits Nov-May. Bring your own computer and SMB if certified. Photographers can rent housings and strobes in Cairns. Rinse stations are available at most boats and the marina.
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Cards are widely accepted in Port Douglas and on reef boats. Small cash is handy for markets and parking.
ATMs in town; none offshore. Withdraw before early departures.
230V • 50Hz • I
Bring an AU Type I adapter and ensure chargers are dual voltage.
Communications
Telstra generally offers the best regional coverage. Reception drops north of the Daintree and is minimal offshore. Boats may provide limited Wi-Fi or none.
Language
English is the main language. The area is Eastern Kuku Yalanji Country, and local cultural tours may share language and stories.
Insurance
Carry travel insurance that covers snorkel and scuba with boats. DAN membership is strongly recommended for emergency medical and evacuation support.
Packing list
Trip Planning
External Booking PartnerThis destination works either as a land-based plan or as a longer liveaboard itinerary. Use the guide for local planning, or compare boats if the remote circuit is the priority.
DiveJourney may earn referral revenue. Booking is handled by the partner and operator under their terms.