How to get to Port Douglas for a summer break

Scenic boat transfers between Cairns and Port Douglas for just $50 and a stunning inland drive are the easiest way to get to Port Douglas for the summer break you've been waiting for.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen urged people to take advantage of the unique ferry service being operated by Quicksilver and Reef Unlimited for a limited time while the coastal route is closed.

“Holidaymakers can settle in for a unique view of the World Heritage rainforest between Cairns and Port Douglas from the water to start their Port Douglas getaway and enjoy it with a cold beverage from the bar,” he said.

“Cairns residents wanting to get away for the day can have lunch at one of the many well-known Port Douglas restaurants, browse the boutiques, play a round of golf, or take the kids to Wildlife Habitat.

“The Port Douglas boats are heading to Low Isles and the outer Great Barrier Reef every day, Brett's Outback Tours are showcasing the amazing produce on the Atherton Tablelands, and the Port Douglas markets are still happening on Sunday.

“The inland route via Mount Molloy takes just one hour longer than the coastal route to drive and Exemplar is honouring the same price for transfers between Cairns Airport and Port Douglas.

“It's a beautiful drive that can be broken up with stops at Emerald Creek Ice Creamery, Coffee Works at Mareeba and a pub lunch at Mount Molloy's National Hotel.

“If you're heading to Port Douglas for an extended stay you can transform the drive into an all-day adventure with a swim at Davies Creek National Park, scramble around Granite Gorge with the Mareeba rock wallabies and dine at Skybury, Australia's largest coffee plantation.

“Operators south of the Daintree River are back at work so you can spot crocodiles and wildlife with Solar Whisper and the Daintree River Cruise Centre, find fishing success with Hook-a-Barra, and enjoy lunch at the Daintree Village Pub.

“Walkabout Cultural Adventures give an insight into Kuku Yalanji traditions with coastal walks foraging for local tucker including hunting mudcrabs and the Lady Douglas River Cruise is showcasing the mangrove forests of Dickson Inlet.”

Road transfers with Exemplar need to be booked via phone or email, or book online with Port Douglas Transfers.

Transfers around Port Douglas are available through SR Coaches for those catching the boat and golfers can contact Port Douglas Golf Tours for packages or transfers to the Mirage Country Club, Palmer Sea Reef and Mossman Golf Club.
* Tourism Tropical North Queensland https://www.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/
* Liz Inglis at liz.inglis@ttnq.org.au