JetsetterGuide
Townsville, Queensland

Townsville, Queensland

Australia

Dive into the Great Barrier Reef's pristine waters just minutes from shore to witness the world's most spectacular underwater wonderland.

💱 Currency Australian Dollar (AUD)
🗣 Language English
🕐 Time Zone AEST (UTC+10)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Feb–Apr
🚢 Typical Duration 16-43 nights
💰 Price Range From $2,556 pp
⚓ Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port No

Gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef and tropical North Queensland, offering access to pristine coral ecosystems and vibrant marine life.

Cruises that visit Townsville, Queensland

Build Your Day in Townsville, Queensland

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Strand Park Places to sit to avoid the hot summer sun and activities for young visitors. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 6k
Castle Hill Lookout There's something for all ages and abilities Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 4k
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Always so much fun. National park · ★ 4.7 · 4k
Townsville Shopping Centre Decent selection of shops, ample multi-storey parking. Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 4k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
Willows Shopping Centre Townsville a lot of stores to cater for all, is quite easily accessible. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 3k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
Castletown Good size shopping complex with almost all brands under 1 roof Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 3k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
The Watermark Townsville Amazing vibe, great food & drinks with incredible service! Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 3k
Billabong Sanctuary Lovely sanctuary with lots of interactive experiences. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Fairfield Central Shopping Centre Easy parking, great Stores and a relaxed atmosphere Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
SeaLink North Queensland Easy to book,good price, great timetable,lovely staff Ferry service · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Strand Rockpool It's nice for family events, with its range of possible activities Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Longboard Bar & Grill Nachos, cheeseburger, steak skewers, and fish tacos — all outstanding. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11:30 AM
Queensland Museum Tropics | Townsville Lots of interactive displays perfect for young Children and families. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Shorehouse Went tonight for a birthday dinner had fabulous service, food and drinks. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
The Commonwealth Hotel Unreal pub - live music, great food and atmosphere! Pub · ★ 4.6 · 1k
A Touch of Salt Each dish was a hit, impressive flavors and excellent presentation. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5:30 PM
The Intersection Townsville Shopping Centre Great variety of shops, tonnes of parking Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 1k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
City Arcade Easy to find and everythings available supermarket bank etc Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 1k 🕐 Open · Closes 9 PM
Molly Malone's Irish Pub Great atmosphere, live music 🎶 with yummy cocktails 🍸 😋 Irish pub · ★ 4.3 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM
The Balcony Restaurant Good food & drinks with friendly staff and a great atmosphere Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
ANZAC Memorial Park Very interesting and unique Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Warrina Shopping Centre Good selection of retailers and ample parking even during busy periods Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Open · Closes 7 PM
Townsville Brewing Co I loved the place, craft beer and a nice atmosphere, cheap beer on weekdays. Pub · ★ 4.1 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Kissing Point Fortification Full playground with swings and flying fox climbing equipment and sand pits. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
The Beach Hotel Townsville Great weekly specials, and great musicians on the weekend! Pub · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Empire Alternacade and Events - Townsville Awesome customer service, Awesome atmosphere and incredible drinks. Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 PM
Lux Noir The food, the service, the cocktails were all fantastic. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Bridgewater Q The food delicious, service on point and such a beautiful atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closes soon · 10:30 AM
Polola The food was exceptional, the cocktails were amazing and the beer was cold. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Hooch and Fellow Fantastic vibe, amazing cocktails, great selection! Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM
Levanti Amazing food and super friendly staff in a great location on Palmer St. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Terasu Each dish was a masterpiece, meticulously crafted and bursting with flavor. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
The TapHouse Townsville Great location, atmosphere and selection of beers on tap. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Osk Bar Great service, great atmosphere, sensational cocktails Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5 PM
Maritime Museum of Townsville Great staff, interactive things and epic boats. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k
The Big Townsville Sign The kids had fun running around it. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
North Ward Shopping Village Food outlets, a newsagent, Coles, bakery, Liquorland, dress shop etc. Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Goat Track It gives a great cardio workout. Nature preserve · ★ 4.7 · 0k
MARKET. Renegade Handmade Onsite services Market · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Open · Closes 4 PM
Central Village Townsville Great food options and parking. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Open 24 hours
Townsville Strand Waterfall It is such a nice little feature for residents and tourists to enjoy. Park · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Panorama Lookout The place to come and see Townsville's storyboard laid out for you. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Ocean Siren / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art Good for kids Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Walker Street Steps Great place to start your climb if you are into climbing more stairs. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k
The Vintage Bar Co Townsville The drinks constantly flowed, the specialised cocktail was DELICIOUS. Event management company · ★ 5 · 0k
The Docks Gorgeous views on the river with an excellent selection of drinks and food! Bar · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
Former Townsville Railway Station Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Townsville, Queensland

About Townsville, Queensland

Townsville, Queensland, has emerged as a vibrant cruise hub in Australia and New Zealand itineraries, with five major cruise lines including Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea regularly calling at this port. While primarily serving as a port of call rather than an embarkation point, Townsville welcomes 61 upcoming cruises, with most voyages spanning 16 nights and visiting destinations like Sydney, Cairns, Darwin, and Bali. The port experiences peak activity during the Australian summer months of November through March, plus September.

When your ship docks in Townsville, you'll discover a relaxed tropical city with easy access to natural wonders and local culture. The iconic Great Barrier Reef lies within reach for those seeking underwater adventures, while the city's waterfront precinct offers shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions perfect for a few hours of exploration. Whether you're seeking active excursions or leisurely strolls through this charming North Queensland destination, Townsville delivers a memorable port experience.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Townsville is your gateway to the world's largest coral reef system. Take a fast catamaran to the reef for world-class snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. This once-in-a-lifetime natural wonder is just 90 minutes offshore and offers unforgettable underwater encounters you won't find anywhere else.

2

Taste Fresh Tropical Seafood

Discover Townsville's thriving seafood scene at waterfront restaurants serving barramundi, mud crab, and prawns caught locally. The Strand precinct offers casual beachside dining with stunning views, or venture to local eateries for authentic Queensland coastal cuisine featuring tropical fruits and fresh catches of the day.

3

Stroll the Iconic Strand

Walk along Townsville's beloved beachfront promenade featuring palm-lined paths, pristine sandy beaches, and the striking Jezzine Barracks historic fortress. The Strand stretches 2.2 kilometers with parks, playgrounds, and unobstructed ocean views—perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon exploring this locals' favorite gathering spot.

4

Browse the Cotters Markets

Experience authentic local culture at the vibrant Cotters Markets, held weekends near the city center. Browse handcrafted souvenirs, Aboriginal art, fresh tropical produce, and local artisan goods while mingling with friendly vendors. It's the perfect spot to find unique gifts and immerse yourself in Townsville's creative community.

5

Discover Maritime History

Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland to explore shipwrecks, Indigenous heritage, and colonial history. The museum's centerpiece is the preserved SS Yongala, a legendary wreck that attracts divers worldwide. Learn fascinating stories about Townsville's role in Australia's maritime past through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

Cruise Lines at Townsville, Queensland

Cruises Departing From Townsville, Queensland

Cruises Visiting Townsville, Queensland

Ship Schedule at Townsville, Queensland

Townsville, Queensland Location

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Cairns, Queensland
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Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Townsville, Queensland?

Five major cruise lines operate from Townsville, Queensland: Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea. With 61 upcoming cruises available, you'll have excellent options for ocean cruises departing from this Australia & New Zealand port of call.

When is the best time to cruise from Townsville, Queensland?

The peak months for cruising from Townsville are September, November, January, February, and March. These months offer the best availability and represent the most popular times to depart from this port, so booking in advance during these periods is recommended.

How much do cruises from Townsville, Queensland cost?

Cruise fares from Townsville, Queensland range from $2,556 to $65,074 per person, depending on the cruise line, itinerary length, cabin type, and travel dates. This wide price range accommodates various budgets, from more affordable options to luxury cruise experiences.

What destinations can I visit on cruises from Townsville?

Cruises from Townsville offer access to some of Australia and the South Pacific's most stunning destinations, including Sydney in New South Wales, Darwin in the Northern Territory, Cairns in Queensland, Airlie Beach, and Benoa in Bali. These itineraries showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

How do I get from Townsville cruise port to the city center?

Townsville cruise port is conveniently located close to the city center, approximately 2-3 kilometers away. You can reach the city by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local buses. Many passengers choose to walk or take a short taxi ride to access Townsville's attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas.

What can I see and do in Townsville during a port day?

Townsville offers excellent attractions for a port day, including the Reef HQ Aquarium, Magnetic Island (accessible by ferry), the Townsville waterfront precinct, and the Museum of Tropical Queensland. You can also enjoy local restaurants, shops, and beaches, or take a scenic drive to nearby natural attractions in the region.

Is Townsville cruise port a tender port or dock port?

Townsville cruise port features modern docking facilities where most cruise ships can dock directly at the terminal, allowing for convenient embarkation and disembarkation. The port is well-equipped with passenger facilities, making it easy to access the city and explore local attractions during your port of call.