Why go to Port Douglas?
Ideal starting point for discovering the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest
Tours can be expensive for those on tight budgets
Tick off two World Heritage-listed natural wonders in one stop
Port Douglas Cruise Port Facilities?
Cruise ship passengers disembark at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina after being delivered to the wharf by tender. The cruise ship generally pulls up offshore outside of Low Isles and the passengers arrive at the marina via tender.
All the cruise ships are met by members of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree and a team of local volunteers. The welcoming committee are on hand to provide maps and share their local knowledge and passion for their seaside town. Local tour operators also set up shop on the wharf to sell tours that are designed for the cruise market and tailored to the amount of time passengers will have in the region.
There are toilets located at the marina, including accessible facilities and a baby change station. The marina is located on Wharf Street in Port Douglas and is a short walk -- just 850 m -- to Macrossan Street, which is the main street of town
Good to Know?
Port Douglas has a tropical climate throughout the year so don't forget to pack some light sun-smart clothing, especially during the months from March to November. It's also helpful to wear thongs (flip-flops) as rain can be random. Also, if you do take a trip out to the reef know that a cloudy day increases the risk of sunburn so be sure to slip (on a shirt), slop (on some sunscreen) and slap (on a hat).
Getting Around?
On Foot: Macrossan Street is a short five-to-10-minute stroll from the marina, depending on your fitness level. Four Mile Beach is at the very end of Macrossan Street and a very accessible walk down the main street. The streets are mainly flat with wide footpaths so it is easy to walk around.
By Bus: The local shuttle bus stop is located out the front of the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina and departs every five minutes or so. The cost for the shuttle can vary, but it is usually no more than $10 for a return fare.
By Taxi: Taxis are available but are very limited within the Shire of Douglas. You can book a ride by calling 131 008. Uber is also available in Port Douglas 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
By Rental Car: There are several car rental companies in Port Douglas and all only a short walk from the Marina. Try Avis (7 Warner St, Port Douglas; 07 4099 4331; open Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 1 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 8.30 am to 1 pm), Thrifty Car Rental (Shop 16, Coconut Grove, 50 Macrossan St; 07 4099 5555; open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 8 am to 12.30 pm), Comet Car Hire (3/54 Macrossan St, 07 4099 6407; open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, 8 am to 3 pm) and Budget Car Rental (7 Warner St; 07 4099 4702; open Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays 8.30 am to 1 pm.)
*Editor's Note: If travelling in peak season (between May and November), book a car in advance. *
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency in Port Douglas is the Australian Dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Use an online currency converter to access the latest rates. There is an ATM located at the wharf as well as several others along Macrossan Street. Cash can be exchanged in nearly every bank.
Language?
English is spoken in Port Douglas, though Australians are said to speak at a faster rate. If someone asks, 'How's it garn?' (How's it going?), you can say, "It's a ripper of a day, ay?" (All's good.) The seaside village also has a permanent transient population so expect to hear a range of languages being spoken.
