Port Douglas Cruises: Best Cruises to Port Douglas

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Port Douglas Cruise Port Guide

Cruise to Port Douglas and you’ll find a miraculous blend of coral reefs and subtropical rainforest, which means it’s an easy destination to find fun things to do in nature. For the beachy and the active, sunbathing on Four Mile Beach or diving the Great Barrier Reef awaits. For the athletic traveler, head into the heart of Daintree Rainforest to hike, zipline, or simply enjoy the beauty of the jungle. Stop in at the Wildlife Habitat for the chance to see koalas, kangaroos, and other native Australian species.

Of course, Port Douglas isn’t all natural beauty. It’s also a popular resort and marina town where travelers can enjoy life’s simple pleasures, from a plate of freshly shucked oysters straight from the marina to a dip in a glittering five-star resort pool. On cruises, Australia makes for an ideal destination for every energy level. During your time in port on Port Douglas cruises, you’ll see a brand new side of Queensland, Australia.

Cruises to Port Douglas, Australia

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Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to Port Douglas

Four Mile Beach

Known as one of the area’s top beaches, Four Mile Beach is so pretty, it looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. It’s also centrally located to some of Port Douglas’s best shopping, including Macrossan Street and a variety of beachy restaurants.

Great Barrier Reef

A stop on Port Douglas cruises isn’t complete without venturing to the Great Barrier Reef, which is perhaps Australia’s biggest natural attraction and cultural commodity. Snorkeling and scuba diving the reef are must-do activities.

Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas

Want to see kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles? Then the Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas is the place to go. Open from 8am to 5pm each day, the sanctuary is an activity the whole family can enjoy while on Port Douglas cruises.

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Top Things to Do in Port Douglas

Shop Port Douglas Market

During your time here, a little bit of shopping is a must. Local markets are typically held on Sundays along Macrossan Street, and it’s easy to stroll through the park as you spot everything from jewelry and clothing to fresh, seasonal produce. It’s a great way to live like a local for the afternoon while you’re stopped in port.

Explore Daintree Rainforest

The oldest rainforest in the world is the Daintree Rainforest outside of Port Douglas, and walking through the jungle here is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s 90 minutes outside of the city, and buses and shuttles frequently take cruise passengers. There are tours where you’ll get the chance to spot crocodiles, ziplining adventures, and nighttime jungle walks where you can experience the rainforest in its full glory.

See the Views from Trinity Bay Lookout

For a breathtaking view of the coast and Four Mile Beach, head to Trinity Bay Lookout. A photo begs to be taken here, where you will quickly get a feel for the region’s great beauty.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Port Douglas Cruise Port

Flames of the Forest

Address: 29 Barrier St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia

They call themselves the “only rainforest dining experience” in Australia, so rest assured an evening at Flames of the Forest will be memorable. Reservations are necessary to secure your place at one of the dinners, where Aboriginal performances and cultural experiences are part of the evening. Flames of the Forest promises an intimate night of six fine courses, Australian wine and bubbles, and more.

Seabean

Address: 3/28 Wharf St Port Douglas, QLD 4877

Seabean is the go-to spot for tapas and paella in Port Douglas. There are a variety of paella dishes ranging from vegetarian to meat filled. Vegetarians will have plenty of meals to choose from here, like cauliflower truffle mac and cheese. Dishes of note include the grilled octopus and the lamb meatballs.

On the Inlet

Address: 7/18-20 Wharf St, Port Douglas QLD 4877, Australia

Known as a Port Douglas institution, On the Inlet is known for superb local seafood at an accessible price point. You can get an entire bucket of shrimp (they call them “prawns” here in Australia) or oysters by the dozen. Not craving seafood? Try the crispy pork belly salad or a hearty steak sandwich.

Culture & History of the Port Douglas Cruise Port

Port Douglas is known widely in Australia because two of its biggest attractions, the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, are both World Heritage Sites. Port Douglas as we know it today was established in 1877, when gold was found in the town. By the 1980s, tourism to the town increased and caused a boom in travelers and population during the peak seasons. Today, Port Douglas is known for its year-round beautiful weather, and it’s a popular stop on the way to the Great Barrier Reef. There’s also an annual carnival held each May in Port Douglas.

Port Douglas Port Facilities & Location

The best shopping in town is along Macrossan Street in Port Douglas, which is close to many of the hotels in the area. On Sundays, the street bustles with vendors and locals doing their shopping from 8am to 2pm at the local market, where you can find produce, fruit, handcrafted goods, and more. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Transportation in Port Douglas

One of the most popular ways to get around in Port Douglas for tourists is the shuttle bus, which runs for $6 AUD. You can also walk or bike around the main parts of town. A 24-hour taxi service called the Port Douglas Taxi is also available. Getting to more remote parts beyond the city is typically best accomplished via bus.

Shopping Near the Port Douglas Cruise Port

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency you’ll use when you arrive on your cruise to Port Douglas. You’ll find that credit cards are widely used in this part of Australia, too. It’s helpful to carry a bit of cash just in case you want to buy something from a small business or street vendor.