palm cove to daintree river cruise

• The Daintree Rainforest
• Mossman Gorge
• Things to Do
• Tourist Info
• Climate & Weather
• Daintree River Ferry
• Self Drive Guide
• Plants & Wildlife

• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree River Cruises
• Horse Rides
• Guided Walks

DRIVING TO THE DAINTREE

It is around a thirty-minute drive north of Port Douglas to Mossman, a pleasant little town set amongst the lush cane fields. Mossman Gorge is a must stop for all trips heading up to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation. The highway leaves the coast at Wonga Beach for a 15-kilometre drive through the forests of the Dagmar Ranges, and then into Daintree Village.

Public transport is limited throughout the Daintree region, so visitors not having their own transport should consider hiring a vehicle from one of the many car-hire companies in Cairns or Port Douglas.

The Daintree Ferry provides access into the Cape Tribulation area. This is accessible by conventional vehicles except during periods of heavy rain. The road is sealed as far as Cape Tribulation. Crossing the Daintree River via a vehicular ferry is an experience not to be missed. This ferry operates from 6am to midnight each day.

After crossing the Daintree Ferry you travel through lowland and tropical rainforest passing road junctions for Cape Kimberley and Cow Bay.

There are some excellent coastal views and several tourist attractions. The road runs over several high capes and alongside attractive beaches. Camping spots and accommodation are available. A small general store is located at Cow Bay. Limited fuel access is available.

Vehicle users can be assured that a 4WD is not required to drive through the Daintree Rainforest, however the Bloomfield Track which begins at the northern side of the rainforest, is suitable only for 4WDs.

The Bloomfield Track links Cape Tribulation and The Bloomfield River. It is a true 4WD Track as there is very little gravel on parts of the surface, unimproved creek crossings, steep climbs and decents, lots of mud and plenty of opportunity to get stuck if it is wet. The actual condition of the road varies enormously, and it can be anything from an easy drive, to almost or completely impassable.

Precautions Please drive safely and carefully while in the area. If you wish to stop, pull over and park safely, not on the road. Sometimes it is safer to walk back to the attraction. 

It is safe to drive at night, providing you obey the speed limits and keep a sharp lookout for wildlife. Wildlife is usually only killed by speeding drivers. Please respect private property while in the area. 

During heavy rain, water does run over the road. Please be careful and check the depth before crossing. The water usually recedes quite quickly once the rain has stopped.

SELF DRIVE ITINERARY

This self drive itinerary offers a handy guideline to base your day of exploring Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest.

Depart Cairns 7:30am and Port Douglas at 8:30am approx.

Mossman Gorge 9:00am approx From Cairns, travel north for 80km along the Cook Highway to Mossman. In the centre of Mossman turn left into Johnston Road. This 5km bitumen road leads directly to the Mossman Gorge car park. Crystal clear water cascades over large granite boulders in the Mossman River gorge. There are two circuit tracks. A short, 400m track provides access to lookouts over the Mossman River. Beyond this is a 2.7km loop track through the rainforest. 

Daintree River Cruise 10:00am approx There are many river tours operating frequently throughout the day, some offering a short crocodile and wildlife spotting experiences while other interpretive cruises cater for special interest groups such as birdwatchers, naturalists and photographers. Bookings not required.

Lunch at Cape Tribulation 1:00pm approx Whet is a popular cafe for lunch in Cape Tribulation.  This cafe and bar is a great venue for the busy explorer, a lunchtime salad and sandwich buffet is on offer, as well as a lunch and snack menu for those with a little more time to relax.  

Cape Tribulation Beach 2:30pm approx This is the showcase beach of the area. Protected by the Cape Tribulation headland, the water here is almost always calm and crystal clear. Take the boardwalk up the headland to the view point that provides magnificent views of where the Rainforest meets the Reef.

Daintree Icecream Company 4:00pm approx Don't miss stopping at The Icecream Company on your journey home, it is a must for any daytrip to Cape Tribulation! All the ice creams are made on the premises from tropical fruits grown in the company’s own orchards such as Black Sapote, Soursop, Wattle Seed and Jackfruit. The ice cream is primarily sold as a fixed sample pack - four flavours in a rather large cup for $5. Pretty good value, really!

Return to Port Douglas 5:30pm and Cairns at 6:30pm approx

CAIRNS TO PORT DOUGLAS

The Captain Cook Highway is Cairns’ coastal corridor; and one of the most spectacular ocean drives in Australia.

This scenic ribbon road winds its way along beautiful unspoiled coastline that is set against a spectacular backdrop of lush rainforest mountains.

The beaches of Cairns stretch some 26 kilometres along the coastline and are known at the Northern Beaches. Consisting of eight separate communities: Machans Beach, Holloways Beach, Yorkeys Knob, Trinity Beach, Kewarra Beach, Clifton Beach, Palm Cove and Ellis Beach; each of these has its own distinctive character and flavour.

After 30-40 minutes you will pass through Wangetti and reach Rex Lookout, one of the most spectacular sights on the highway. Not only can you enjoy wonderful views over the ocean, but the area is very popular for hang gliding and other aerial sports. It’s a great spot to relax and watch them soaring on coastal thermals.

Just 5 minutes further is Turtle Cove and past here is Oak Beach a quiet, natural and unspoilt 2 kilometre beach.

Thala Beach Lodge is located on the northernmost headland of a 2km stretch of untouched coastline, and Port Douglas is just 10minutes further.

Port Douglas is nestled at the end of a peninsula, the tranquil waters of a natural harbour on one side of the village embrace a lively marina. Along the other side of the peninsula stretches the breathtaking sandy sweep of beautiful Four Mile Beach.

PORT DOUGLAS TO MOSSMAN

Port Douglas spolis the traveller with 5-star to budget accommodation, art galleries, markets and award-winning dining experiences second to none.

The Port Douglas Sunday Markets are a popular haunt for tourists and locals alike. Here you'll find original arts and crafts, jewellery, pottery, tropical clothing, fruit and vegetables, glassware, books, homemade foods, unique Australian goods, souvenirs and more.

The markets are also a chance to meet the locals, including the artists, street theatre performers and buskers.

Flagstaff Hill is the best place to capture the striking views of the town and its superb Four Mile Beach.

The journey to Mossman takes you through green canefields with  rainforest clad mountains as the backdrop.

Mossman, is a picturesque little township nestled at the foot of the mountains.

The region's sugar capital the Mossman Central Mill throbs and hums its way through the sugar cane crushing season (June – October). Explore the country stores and historic pubs along the wide tree-lined main street.

Five minutes west of Mossman you will discover Mossman Gorge, a very accessible and scenic section of the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park.

Mossman is located 75 km from Cairns and 20 km from Port Douglas.

MOSSMAN TO DAINTREE VILLAGE

Journey through an ever-changing tropical landscape, a patchwork of white sandy palm-fringed beaches, waving cane-fields and jungle clad misty mountains.

Further on is the turnoff to beautiful Whyanbeel Valley, home of Diane Cilento’s famous open-air playhouse. Diane puts on a number of world-class productions every year.

From Rocky Point a vista opens up of the northern rainforested ranges towards Cape Tribulation. Shortly you pass through rich beef-cattle pastures and soon reach the turnoff to idyllic Wonga Beach, miles of unspoilt sands with no major development - just a tropical beachfront caravan park.

Next in view are a commercial fish farm, beach horse rides, wildlife sanctuary and tropical gardens, then the turnoff to the Daintree ferry and Cape Tribulation. But to reach tiny historic Daintree Village drive straight ahead – here the road winds through the rainforest and soon you catch your first glimpse of the awesome Daintree River, with it’s prehistoric inhabitants the salt-water crocodiles.

The final stretch into Daintree Village winds through undulating farmland and luxuriant tropical vegetation with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Daintree was originally a settlement for timber-cutters and, until the road was completed in 1933, only accessible by river.

Today tourism and farming are the main industries and the region hosts every type of accommodation option from budget to 5-star resorts, B&B’s and hideaways, wildlife-spotting river cruises, artists’galleries, interpretive walks and restaurants.

THE DAINTREE RIVER FERRY

The Daintree Ferry provides access into the Cape Tribulation area. This is accessible by conventional vehicles except during periods of heavy rain. The road is sealed as far as Cape Tribulation. Crossing the Daintree River via a vehicular ferry is an experience not to be missed. 

Daintree Ferry operates between 7.30am to 10am and 2.30pm to 5pm on Christmas Day.  

The Daintree River Ferry operates from 6am to midnight each day.

For any enquiries please contact Customer Service on (07) 4099 9444.

DAINTREE RIVER TO CAPE TRIBULATION

Cross the Daintree River by ferry and travel north into the best of the Daintree - the Reef and Rainforest Coast.

Allow a minimum of one and a half hours drive time from Cairns to reach the ferry, one hour from Port Douglas.

Looking northwards across the Daintree you can see the rainforested slopes of Thornton Peak. This mountain dominates the skyline and you will see it from several different angles on your journey. Very often there are clouds resting on top.

Check out the model of the Cassowary and the chicks, so that you know what they look like. You must remain in your vehicle while you are travelling on the ferry.

When you come off the ferry, pull over to the left and let the local traffic pass. You will have a more relaxing journey if you let the traffic get away. You may also be able to buy some cheap locally grown fruit from the banana stall which is often on the north side of the river.

A large part of the lowlands you will be travelling though is privately own freehold land. There are about 1000 rateable blocks, the majority between 1-2 hectares. The number of permanent residents is between 600-900 people. Many of these blocks have not been settled, and the rainforest is still intact.

The drive over the Alexander range is a stunning scenic rainforest drive and one of the most spectacular in the world - it has a sympathetic conservation design and its meandering nature enhances the ecotourism experience.

As you descend from the look-out there are several glimpses of views of the Daintree coastline.

The Cow Bay area has been classified as Outstanding Cassowary Habitat Zone by Corme and Moore (1993). In the lowlands and swamps of western Cow Bay the population density is as high as the best habitats in Mission Beach.

In the wet season Cooper Creek can be a barrier to cars, as the causeway may flood in heavy rain. In a small car do not try and cross the causeway until the depth of the water on the causeway drops to 0.2 metres. You need to have lots of patience as it is possible to be held up here for several hours if there are heavy rains in the area.

Noahs Range is the last range before you reach the Cape Tribulation area. Great view of Cape Tribulation and the fringing reef as you descend from Noahs Range into the Cape Trib valley.

Cape Tribulation Beach has toilets and picnic tables. You can walk to the look-out which takes 10 minutes. From here view the rainforest clad mountains which literally meets with the fringing reef. Remember to bring your camera as the view is spectacular! Just north of the Cape Trib Beach House is still some live coral on the edge of the fringing reef, if you have brought your snorkel.

REEF & RAINFOREST

3 NIGHTS SILKY OAKS  3 NIGHTS GREEN ISLAND  FULL BREAKFAST DAILY  OUTER BARRIER REEF TRIP MANY ACTIVITIES 

Southern Daintree Tour – Half Day

Half day tour info.

The original Daintree Tour & Ultimate Daintree Tour will reopen in the new season, but you can still enjoy the Daintree Rainforest with our NEW Southern Daintree Half Day Tour.

Join our experienced guides as they take you through the most amazing locations of the Southern Daintree Rainforest on this exclusive small group experience.

• Visit the world-famous Mossman Gorge in the Daintree National Park
• Enjoy morning tea & light lunch
• Guided rainforest walk
• Relax on the scenic crocodile & wildlife spotting river cruises
• Insect repellent, umbrella & onboard library
• FREE return transfers from Port Douglas
• Coach transfers from Palm Cove available for a small fee on selected days.
• Port Douglas Habitat can be added as an optional extra

**Please be advised this tour is not suitable for passengers using walking frames, sticks or with poor mobility**

• Morning tea & light lunch provided
• Guided expert commentary
• Small personalised groups (max 20 guests)
• Wildlife spotting river cruise
• Visit Mossman gorge
• Air-conditioned vehicles

Ages 4 - 14

Half Day Tour: Available Monday, Wednesday and Friday (more days available during holiday periods).

Departure :

• Approx 7.15am: Pick up from local Palm Cove accommodation
• Approx 8.45am: Pick up Port Douglas
• Approx 8.55am: Pick up from local Port Douglas accommodation or meet Crystalbrook Marina Daintree Tours shop.

Mossman Gorge

• Explore the ancient forest and see crystal clear waters over giant boulders. Learn about the abundant flora and fauna of the Daintree Rainforest.

Depart to the Daintree

• Morning Tea provided and short sight seeing tour of Daintree village
• Daintree River Cruise Centre: enjoy the one hour tour of the Daintree River and spot wildlife including a light lunch.

Passenger drop off:

• Approx 1pm: At Crystalbrook Marina, Port Douglas
• Approx 5.30pm: At Palm Cove – Palm Cove passengers will have free time in Port Douglas before the return back to Palm Cove.

Passengers have the opportunity to add on Port Douglas Wildlife Habitat as an optional extra (this can be added within the booking cart).

What do I bring?

• Comfortable clothing and a light raincoat if it is raining
• Flat shoes that you can walk in. Does not have to be walking shoes.
• We supply filtered water so recommend bringing your own water bottle for refills
• We supply morning tea and a light lunch. You are welcome to bring additional snacks and drinks. Please ensure you leave no rubbish behind
• Your camera! Plenty of great photo opportunities

What are the lunch options?

Lunch consists of a Chicken/Salad roll. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free op option available upon booking. Bring your own water bottles, these can be topped up during the tour.

How long are the walks? Are they easy?

The Mossman Gorge walk is under 1km, with well maintained boardwalk or pathway and classed as easy.

Can I bring infants or children under 4 years old?

This tour is unavailable for children and infants under the age of 4 unless you arrange a Private Charter Tour  to tailor make the day. It is a big day in a vehicle and in the rainforest so they may get restless nor will understand the in depth commentary from the guide.

What time will I return?

Do you do free return transfers, book your half day southern daintree tour today, sustainability.

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Daintree Tours

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Daintree Tours 1/11-17 Macrossan Street Port Douglas Queensland 4877 Australia

Phone: +61 7 4231 8012

Daintree Tours Email: [email protected]

• Full Day Daintree Tour
• Half Day Southern Daintree Tour
• Ultimate Zipline Tour

BRUCE BELCHER'S DAINTREE RIVER CRUISE Preferred Partner

Wildlife river cruise.

Embark on a Wildlife Adventure with Bruce Belcher’s Daintree River Cruises – Captivating Nature Since 1987. Immerse yourself in the wonders of one of UNESCO’s World Heritage-listed areas as you embark on a one-hour wildlife cruise, guided by our passion for nature and backed by decades of expertise.

TOUR TYPE:                  River cruise                            

DEPARTS:                       Multiple departures during the day

LOCATION:                     2856 Mossman Daintree Road, Daintree      

DURATION:                   1 hour

MEAL PROVIDED:       No

ADD-ONS:                       None

PICK UPS:                         None

Discover the Bruce Belcher Difference:

Wildlife Expertise: As avid bird watchers, we bring a keen eye for spotting crocodiles and tree snakes, with a remarkable 98% success rate in crocodile sightings, especially during the cooler months.

Secluded Wildlife Boutique Facility: Operating from our home on the banks of the Daintree River, we offer an intimate experience in a secluded wildlife boutique facility.

Relaxation in Nature: Before or after your cruise, unwind in our garden room, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife. Enjoy a complimentary Daintree Tea or coffee, savouring the tranquility of the Daintree.

Cruise Schedule (March to January):

9:30 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm

Note: We operate 7 days a week, providing flexibility for your Daintree Discovery Tour.

Why Choose Bruce Belcher’s Daintree River Cruises:

Meet the Experts: Encounter Bruce and Griffith Belcher and our dedicated team on your Daintree Discovery Tour. Benefit from the insights of experienced local guides who are passionate about the Daintree.

Memorable Small Groups: Our commitment to small, personalized groups ensures an unforgettable and immersive experience.

At Bruce Belcher’s Daintree River Cruises, we don’t just offer a tour; we provide an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Daintree. Join us for an experience that’s not just a cruise but a celebration of the rich biodiversity that makes the Daintree truly special.”

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Experience the world's oldest rainforest...

Discover the Daintree with the ONLY Advanced ECO Certified operator on the river. Enter the code WILD10 at the checkout for 10% off your booking!

Ultimate Wildlife Experience

Explore the world heritage listed Daintree Rainforest during our 60-90 minute wildlife experience tours. 

Private Charter

Create unforgettable memories and discover the Daintree at your own pace, with an exclusive, personalized tour.

Discover the

Here at the Daintree River Cruise Centre, we aim to showcase all aspects of our incredible environment. From ancient reptilian predators, to flocks of birds, schools of fish, sneaky snakes and a variety of the mangrove species lining the riverbank. 

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In 1987, Lee & Janet Lafferty opened the Daintree River Cruise Centre with a vision to share the spectacular wildlife and rainforest in the most environmentally sensitive way possible.

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The ONLY Advanced ECO Certified operator on the river.

25% off family groups for our 2:30pm and 3:30pm cruises these school holidays. BOOK NOW!