Fitzroy Island Resort: Prices, Ferries & Snorkelling

The 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island (a distance recorded by KAYAK at 15.8 miles) delivers you to a resort where traveller reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor consistently describe the snorkelling as superior to that of the more developed Green Island. This guide compares the two islands across cost, ferry logistics, accommodation options, and on-site amenities so you can decide which Great Barrier Reef excursion fits your trip.

Last checked: 2026-06-20

Location: Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef, 45 minutes by boat from Cairns · Accommodation: Fitzroy Island Resort offers modern rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, private bathroom, fridge, tea/coffee · Dining: Two restaurants and a beachside bar (Foxy’s Bar) on the resort · Activities: Snorkelling, Great Barrier Reef Turtle Rehab Centre, swimming pool, island walks

What is better, Fitzroy Island or Green Island?

The short answer: Fitzroy Island tends to win traveller praise for its snorkelling, while Green Island appeals more to those seeking a developed beach resort with a pub‑style atmosphere. A TripAdvisor forum contributor wrote that “the snorkelling is better than Green Island, but much of the island is more appealing to nature lovers, and people that want to have a cafe/pub.”

Both islands sit roughly 45 minutes by boat from Cairns, though Green Island is slightly closer — approximately 27 kilometres versus Fitzroy’s 15.8 miles (per KAYAK). Ferry operators run regular services to both. A two‑island package from Barrier Reef Australia allocates 2.5 hours on Fitzroy and 3.5 hours on Green Island, indicating that Green Island receives the longer stop in a combined tour.

How much does it cost to go to Fitzroy Island?

Ferry: A one‑way ticket from Cairns typically costs around $40–$50 (based on third‑party examples; official operator prices not included in our research). A day‑trip package that includes ferry and snorkel hire was quoted at $85 by Londoner in Sydney, with gear hire an extra $15–$30.

Overnight stay: Room rates at Fitzroy Island Resort start from $94 per night (KAYAK). On popular dates — for example, in late June 2026 — Expedia lists a 1‑night stay for two adults at $136. Rates can rise to $130–$136 in January and November, indicating seasonal variation (KAYAK price calendar).

Day pass: Day visitors can purchase a ferry ticket and use the resort’s restaurants and beach area. The resort does not offer a “day pass” that includes pool or full facilities — those are typically reserved for overnight guests. Check with the ferry company for current day‑trip inclusions.

The bottom line: A day trip to Fitzroy Island (ferry + optional snorkel gear) runs about $100–$115 per adult. An overnight stay adds $94–$136 for the room. By comparison, a day trip to Green Island was reviewed at $88, and its Two Island Explorer package saves $29 per adult if you want both islands.

Is there food available on Fitzroy Island?

Yes — the Fitzroy Island Resort operates two restaurants and a beachside bar named Foxy’s Bar. Multiple travel blogs (e.g., We Seek Travel) report that the resort’s outlets serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and that day visitors can purchase meals at the same dining venues. The specific cuisine and hours vary seasonally; it is advisable to check the resort’s website before arrival.

Do you need stinger suits at Fitzroy Island?

Stinger (marine jellyfish) season runs from November to May. During those months, the Queensland tourism authority recommends wearing a stinger suit while swimming or snorkelling. Many ferry operators and the resort provide stinger suits for hire (typically $10–$15). Outside stinger season (June–October), suits are generally not required, but it is always wise to check current conditions with the resort or ferry crew before entering the water.

Saltwater crocodiles are present in Queensland waterways, but the resort’s beach areas are patrolled and considered safe. Always follow posted signage.

Fitzroy Island Resort reviews

Across major platforms, the resort accumulates a high volume of feedback: 3,653 traveller reviews on TripAdvisor, 882 verified reviews on Booking.com, and 1,462 ratings on Google Hotels. The overall rating from these sources remains positive, though specific criticisms appear: one Booking.com reviewer described the property as “outdated” and noted “old beds,” while the same reviewer stated that Green Island is “also outdated and more expensive.”

Generalising from these reviews, guests commonly praise the proximity to the reef and the ease of shore‑based snorkelling. The resort’s family‑owned management is occasionally noted in positive feedback. Because the sample size on TripAdvisor is large (3,653), the composite picture leans favourable, but the resort is not a luxury property — it is a functional island base for reef exploration.

What is the best month to visit Fitzroy Island?

The dry, cooler months from June to October are widely considered the best window for visiting. During this period, stinger suits are unnecessary, humidity is lower, and water visibility for snorkelling is at its peak. KAYAK’s price calendar suggests room rates dip slightly in these months, though some dates in June and October still show rates around $130–$136.

November to May is stinger season and also the wetter period, with higher humidity and a greater chance of rain. However, the water remains warm, and many visitors still enjoy excellent snorkelling as long as they wear protective suits. The trade‑off is lower room prices and fewer crowds.

What this means: For the best weather and snorkelling, plan your trip between June and October. For lower rates and a quieter island, consider the shoulder months of May or November.