15. Spirit of Cairns – Dinner Cruise
The city of Cairns is world-renowned as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, but the true heartbeat of the city can be felt upon its calm, coastal waters as the sun begins to set. Spirit of Cairns offers a sophisticated and soul-stirring way to experience the tropical far north, trading the high-octane energy of reef trekking for an evening of elegance, fine dining, and panoramic views. As a premier dinner cruise operator, Spirit of Cairns provides a unique "sea-level" perspective of the city, where the glittering lights of the skyline reflect off the tranquil waters of Trinity Inlet.
Our philosophy is centered on the concept of "Tropical Hospitality at its Best." We believe that an evening on the water should be a feast for all the senses. From the moment you are greeted with a glass of chilled sparkling wine on our teak decks to the final notes of live music as we return to the dock, every detail is meticulously curated. Whether you are celebrating a romantic milestone, hosting a corporate event, or simply seeking a relaxing end to a day of adventure, Spirit of Cairns provides a warm, professional, and intimate atmosphere. It is an invitation to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and enjoy a side of Cairns that most travelers never get to see.
Your destination is the breathtaking and serene Trinity Inlet, a deep-water harbor that winds its way through lush mangrove forests and past the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. Unlike the open ocean tours, this journey takes place entirely within the sheltered waters of the inlet, ensuring a smooth and stable experience regardless of the weather outside the reef.
The inlet is a place of dramatic natural beauty and historical significance. As the vessel glides further into the waterway, the urban landscape of Cairns gives way to the ancient, untouched beauty of the mangrove systems—a vital nursery for the region’s marine life. You will cruise past the bustling Marlin Marina, the towering luxury hotels of the Esplanade, and the industrial heart of the working port, all while being surrounded by the silhouette of rainforest-clad mountains. As twilight fades into night, the destination transforms into a shimmering mirror of city lights, providing a tranquil and romantic backdrop for an evening of world-class dining.
Tropical Buffet Menu COLD SELECTIONFresh Dinner Rolls
served with butter
Chef’s selection of fresh salads:
Rocket and Pear Salad (GF, V)
Beetroot Salad (GF, V, DF)
Rainbow Salad (GF, V)
with additional feta, fresh and sundried tomatoes, cucumber, black and green olives and artichoke served on the side
Charcuterie Board (GF, DF)
Selection of local cured and roasted meats
Fresh Local Prawns (GF, DF)
served chilled with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges
Freshly Shucked Australian Oysters (GF, DF)
served with a red onion vinaigrette
Australian Smoked Salmon Canapés
served with crean cheese, lemon and capers
Salt and Pepper Squid (GF, DF)
served with green goddess sauce
Falafel Balls (V, GF, DF)
chickpea patties with Middle Eastern herbs and spices
Vegetable Stir-fry (VG, GF, DF)
rice noodles tossed with a tangy sauce and fresh vegetables
Lemon Butter Barramundi (GF)
baked barramundi fillets coated in a hollandaise sauce
Smoked Pork (GF, DF)
slow cooked pork marinade with BBQ rub spices
Teriyaki Chicken (GF, DF)
marinated chicken breast with a sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce
Seasonal Roasted Vegetables (VG, GF)
roasted seasonal vegetables with fresh herbs
Garlic Roasted Potatoes (GF, DF)
with smoked paprika, garlic and fresh herbs
Steamed Rice (GF, VG)
with vegetables and fried shallots
Black Forest Cake Cups
Biscoff Cheesecake
Mini Tropical Fruit Tarts
White Chocolate Pannacotta with Fresh Fruit Coulis (GF)
Fresh tropical fruits (VG, GF)
Gourmet Gallo cheese board (GF)
Please note all menu items are subject to change without notice. Please contact us when booking with any special dietary requirements.
Spirit of Cairns operates on a consistent schedule that fits perfectly into an evening’s plans, whether you are heading out to a bar afterward or looking for an early night.
- Check-in: 6:00 PM at the Spirit of Cairns desk (Marlin Marina, A-Finger).
- Boarding: 6:15 PM.
- Departure: The vessel departs promptly at 6:30 PM.
- Return: We arrive back at the Marlin Marina at approximately 9:00 PM.
Dinner cruises typically operate most evenings, though we recommend checking availability in advance as the vessel is often booked for private functions.
Spirit of Cairns Our flagship is a state-of-the-art, 26-meter luxury sailing catamaran. Specifically designed for harbor cruising, she offers the perfect blend of stability and style.
- Stability: The twin-hull design ensures a level and smooth ride, making it an ideal choice for those who do not have “sea legs.”
- Dual Levels: The vessel features two levels of luxury. The lower deck houses the main dining room with expansive windows, while the upper deck offers an open-air viewing platform with 360-degree views.
- Interiors: The main cabin is fully air-conditioned and features contemporary decor, comfortable booth seating, and a fully licensed bar.
- Accessibility: The vessel is designed with wide walkways, making it accessible for guests with limited mobility (though please note that the upper deck is only accessible via stairs).
What is the Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise?
The Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise is a relaxed evening experience combining waterfront sightseeing with dining. You’ll cruise through the calm waters of Trinity Inlet while enjoying a buffet dinner, drinks and live entertainment onboard a luxury sailing catamaran.
How long does the cruise run?
The experience runs for approximately 2.5 hours on the water, typically departing around 6:15–6:30pm and returning at about 8:45–9:00pm.
Where does the cruise go?
The cruise stays within the protected waters of Trinity Inlet and along the Cairns waterfront, offering views of the marina, city lights and surrounding rainforest mountains rather than heading out to open sea.
What is included in the tour?
The cruise includes a welcome drink on arrival, a 2.5-hour calm water cruise, a buffet dinner, and live entertainment on selected nights. The vessel also has indoor air-conditioned dining and spacious outdoor decks.
What is the dinner menu like?
The buffet features a wide range of hot and cold dishes, including fresh local seafood such as prawns and oysters, salads, charcuterie, and mains like barramundi, chicken and pork dishes. Desserts include cakes, cheesecakes, fruit and a cheese board. Dietary requirements can usually be catered for with notice.
Is there entertainment onboard?
Yes, live music is a key part of the experience, with local musicians performing on most evenings (typically Sunday to Thursday). The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with a mix of acoustic and upbeat performances.
How many people are on this tour?
The vessel is a large catamaran capable of carrying a significant number of guests, typically accommodating large groups with allocated seating. While exact numbers vary, it is not a small-group experience and can host dozens to over 100 passengers depending on the night.
Is the cruise suitable for elderly or mobility-limited guests?
The cruise is generally suitable for guests with reasonable mobility, with indoor seating and minimal walking required. However, boarding via the marina and moving around a vessel may present some challenges for those with significant mobility issues.
Can disabled guests or wheelchair users board easily?
Accessibility can be limited. Some sources indicate the experience may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility impairments, so it’s best to check requirements in advance before booking.
Can I bring a pram or stroller onboard?
Foldable prams may be allowed, but large or non-folding strollers are generally not permitted due to space and safety considerations onboard the vessel.
What is boarding like?
Boarding takes place at Cairns Marlin Marina, with check-in usually from around 5:45–6:00pm. Guests are welcomed onboard with a drink before departure.
Is the cruise suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, absolutely. This is a calm water sightseeing and dining experience with no swimming involved, making it suitable for non-swimmers.
What should I wear?
Smart casual or tropical attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are advised, and bringing a light jacket is a good idea in cooler months.
Is food and drink included?
A welcome drink and buffet dinner are included. Additional drinks, including cocktails, wine and beer, are available for purchase from the onboard bar.
Can I take a GoPro or camera?
Yes, cameras and GoPros are welcome and are a great way to capture the sunset, city lights and onboard atmosphere.
Can I take a drone on the tour?
No, drones are not permitted due to safety, privacy and marina regulations.
Is the cruise family-friendly?
Yes, the cruise is suitable for families and children, with a relaxed atmosphere and a wide range of food options.
Is the water rough?
No, the cruise operates in calm, sheltered waters, making it a smooth and comfortable experience compared to open ocean tours.
What happens in bad weather?
The cruise operates in most weather conditions thanks to the protected inlet location. In rare cases of severe weather, departures may be adjusted or cancelled.
Why choose the Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise?
This experience offers a unique combination of relaxed sightseeing, quality dining and live entertainment in a calm, scenic setting—making it one of the most enjoyable and accessible evening activities in Cairns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Bookings can be made directly from any of the tour or attractions individual pages - or simply give us a call on +61 07 40574312.
All payments are securely processed by the NAB (National Australia Bank) No credit card information is held by us. In fact we never even see your credit card details.
We are an online only agency operating out of offices in Trinity Beach, a suburb on Cairns' Northern Beaches (about a 25 minute drive from the city).
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