Fitzroy Island is an idyllic tropical island getaway just off the coast of Cairns in Far North Queensland. Whether you’re planning on an extended holiday or just a day trip out to escape the pressures of everyday life, Fitzroy Island will leave you wanting to come back time and time again.
There are so many amazing things to do and see while visiting Fitzroy Island. So, to ensure that you make your time on the Island the best and most memorable experience imaginable, we have shared some things here that you need to know before you visit to make your trip as fun and safe as possible.
Climate and Weather
A big factor for many people on deciding when to plan a trip to Fitzroy Island is: “What will the weather be like?”
An important thing to remember is that Tropical North Queensland does not have the typical four seasons that most people are familiar with. The North Queensland climate is characterised by two distinct seasons, the wet and the dry.
Due to the warmer weather, winter is more commonly known as the ‘dry’ season and runs from May to October, enjoying low humidity, refreshing breezes and plenty of sunshine.
Summer is therefore known as the ‘wet’ season and goes from November to April and brings with it high humidity and heavy rainfall.
March is usually the wettest month of the year, when Fitzroy Island receives an average rainfall of 502mm. Throughout the year, the average daily temperatures on Fitzroy Island range from 19°C to just over 30°C.
North Queensland is home to some of the best weather year round that Australia has to offer and being aware of what the weather will be like when you arrive on Fitzroy Island will allow you to pack accordingly.
Getting There and Back
Planning your journey to and from Fitzroy Island ahead of time will make sure you know exactly where you need to depart from and what time, avoiding any stress and last minute rushing.
The Fitzroy Island Flyer Ferry Service will get you from Cairns to Fitzroy Island and back, whether you’re going over just for the day or for a longer holiday. The Fitzroy Flyer takes 45 minutes and all services depart from Cairns Marlin Marina.
Daily Fast Cat departure times from Cairns are: 8:00am, 11:00am* and 1:30pm
Daily Fast Cat departure times from Fitzroy Island are: 9:30am, 12:15pm* and 5:00pm
*Please note the 11:00am and 12:15 pm services do not run during the months of February and March.
If you’re visiting Fitzroy Island in your own yacht or boat, you’ll find secure moorings and anchorage in naturally sheltered waters for private vessels. The mooring specifications and conditions of use are well displayed on arrival.
Looking After The Park
Part of what makes Fitzroy Island so special is its unique pristine, natural beauty. Fitzroy Island is a National Park and is therefore protected. So, in order to keep the Island and the surrounding Great Barrier Reef clean and healthy for future generations to enjoy, it is important to abide by the following rules:
- Avoid standing on living coral when diving, snorkeling or wading in the waters offshore. This includes touching, kicking or any type of contact.
- All the marine life both on the Island and in the surrounding waters are protected. It can be very tempting for visitors to want to take a souvenir of their trip back home, but collecting coral, clams and shells etc. is absolutely not allowed.
- Do not feed any of the wildlife, including sea animals. All wildlife have their own specific diet and feeding them can affect their health and alter the natural population balance.
- Do not go out exploring onto the reef flat at low tide. This is home to many marine animals which can be damaged by trampling.
- If you decide to go on one of Island’s amazing walks make sure you stay on the walking tracks. Taking short cuts leads to erosion and adjacent areas may be unstable.
- Make sure you take all your rubbish with you when you leave. Plastic can harm wildlife if they eat it or become entangled in it.
- It is extremely important to dispose of cigarette butts thoughtfully as they can kill wildlife if they are swallowed.
Staying Safe
Just as important as it is to look after the Island and Great Barrier Reef during your visit, it is equally as important that you keep yourself safe. Following the suggestions given below will ensure that you leave Fitzroy Island just as healthy as when you arrived:
- The North Queensland sun is harsh so always wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved shirt, even on cloudy days.
- Always carry water with you and try to go on walks in the cooler part of the day. The high temperatures and humidity on the Island can lead to heat exhaustion, even for experienced walkers.
- Stay on the tracks as it’s easy to get lost if you venture off the roads or walking tracks. Take a map if possible and follow markers and signs carefully. Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- Know your own limitations and abilities for safe swimming and snorkelling. Do not put yourself and others at risk and always snorkel with a buddy so that help is at hand if you get into trouble.
Being aware of the things mentioned in this article will help you to be fully prepared for your trip to Fitzroy Island and avoid any unexpected and unplanned situations. This will allow you to fully enjoy your getaway on this magical island.
