The Daintree is a popular tourist destination and undoubtedly one of the world’s natural wonders. A Daintree River Cruise takes you deep into the heart of this complex tropical ecosystem. Over 180 million years old, the Daintree is one of the oldest rainforests on the planet and a registered UNESCO World Heritage site.
From the comfort and safety of your seat, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the Daintree’s most fascinating creatures. As you cruise along the magnificent river system, you’ll spot many of the wildlife that calls the mangrove wetlands home including tree snakes, exotic birds, and of course, the famous Saltwater (Estuarine) crocodile.
Unpack once for 6 nights in 5-star luxury at the Shangri-La The Marina Cairns. Experience an authentic welcome ‘smoking’ ceremony with our indigenous guide through Mossman Gorge. We’ll dive into Green Island on a half-day tour including a Glass Bottom Boast cruise; embark on an outback trip on a full day tour to Chillagoe Caves; relax on a cruise along the Daintree River and stroll the white sandy beaches at Cape Tribulation. Finish the tour feeling refreshed whilst cruising along the Barron River in Kuranda and enjoy your last night with an exclusive private twilight tour at the Cairns Aquarium.
The Daintree vegetation too is like nothing else in the world, from the rich rainforests with their tropical plant life to the variety of mangrove species lining the riverbanks.
Winding your way along this majestic river, you can’t help but feel you’re travelling through a world lost in time. It’s not surprising these tropical rainforests are World Heritage listed. They truly are something wonderful to experience.
The best way to explore the treasures of this incredible environment is on a Daintree River Cruise. Come on one of our Daintree tours for the ultimate wildlife adventure.
There’s no doubt that most visitors come onboard Daintree River Cruises hoping to catch a glimpse of the Daintree’s most feared yet photographed local – the Saltwater (Estuarine) Crocodile. This carefully camouflaged creature is a master at not being seen. Fortunately, most cruise boat guides know how to lure these clever crocs to the surface for a close-up snap!
Saltwater crocodiles are hyper-carnivorous apex predators and the largest living reptile and crocodile species in the world. They can reach lengths of more than 6.5 metres and weigh in at over 1,000 kilos. While most species of crocs are relatively harmless to humans and would rather avoid us than eat us, the saltwater croc will show aggression if you step into its territory.
Although these beady-eyed locals often take centre stage, all flora and fauna in the Daintree play an important role in this delicate environment. As your cruise boat meanders along the waterways you may spot flying foxes, waterfowl and rare birds, unusual insects and alluring butterflies or the magnificent cassowary.
The duration of a Daintree River cruise can vary, but most tours last around 1 to 1.5 hours. This gives you a good amount of time to navigate the river, spot wildlife, and learn about the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
The Daintree Forest in located in the Wet Tropics region of Far North Queensland. It flows through the Daintree Rainforest, which is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in the world. The river originates in the mountains of the Great Dividing Range and meanders through the lush tropical landscape before eventually flowing into the Coral Sea near the town of Daintree. The Daintree River and its surrounding area are known for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem, making them popular destinations for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.
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