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February 9-10, 2026 Marti Eicholz The journey aboard the Odyssey from Port Vila, Vanuatu to Cairns, Australia is an impressive undertaking that spans approximately 1,300 to 1,550 nautical miles across the vast expanse of the Coral Sea. Lasting five days at sea, this passage is characterized as a steady, open-ocean voyage where the rhythm of the waves is a constant companion. Some stretches of the trip are relatively uneventful and peaceful, some periods have heightened activity with challenging conditions brought on by significant ocean swells and strong, persistent trade winds. These factors add an element of adventure and unpredictability to the crossing, requiring both skill and attentiveness from the crew and all of us alike. As the Odyssey nears the Australian coastline, it gracefully makes its way into the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Here, the ship navigates through a dynamic seascape, where the water shifts from lively, choppy waves to serene, glassy expanse of water, offering us ever-changing vistas and a taste of the region’s natural beauty. The Odyssey arrives at the dedicated Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal, conveniently located in the heart of the city. From here, it’s just a brief stroll to the vibrant Esplanade Lagoon, the bustling Cairns Marlin Marina, and an array of shops, restaurants, and the popular Hemingway’s Brewery. Our time in Cairns is especially meaningful, as we previously visited this vibrant city from November 8-10, 2025, and are now returning for another memorable stay. Cairns is situated in the Cairns Region of Queensland, Australia, on the tropical northeastern coast of Far North Queensland. With a population of 169,312, Cairns is known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming community. It is located in a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, known as one of Australia's wettest regions. The average annual maximum temperature hovers around 29°C (84.2°F), accompanied by a humidity level of approximately 62 percent, creating a warm and inviting environment for everyone. Cairns boasts a rich history and dynamic present. Originally established in 1876 during the gold rush era, the city has grown far beyond its mining roots. Today, Cairns serves as a vital center for tourism, aviation, and agriculture, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and economic vitality. Its strategic location makes it a gateway to some of the most remarkable regions in Queensland. The surrounding landscape is equally impressive, featuring Mount Bartle Frere, the highest peak in Queensland, towering at 1,611 meters. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers flock to the area to hike, explore, and take in breathtaking views of the region’s lush rainforests and rugged terrain. Whether you’re interested in exploring the picturesque nearby islands and the spectacular outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef, soaring above the region on a scenic flight, or adventuring into the wild with crocodile encounters and exhilarating river rafting, Cairns provides endless opportunities for memorable experiences. Finding exciting activities to suit every interest is remarkably easy in this dynamic destination. Spanning 1,687 square kilometers, Cairns occupies a narrow stretch of coastal land nestled between the impressive Great Dividing Range and the sparkling Coral Sea. The city’s boundaries extend from the Eubenangee Swamp near Mirriwinni in the south all the way to the Macalister Range near Ellis Beach in the north. This diverse tropical region showcases a stunning variety of landscapes, including rugged mountains, sandy beaches, tidal wetlands, tranquil freshwater lakes, expansive mudflats, lush mangrove swamps, serene bays, winding rivers, intricate estuaries, and fertile coastal plains. Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland, is a gateway to some of Australia’s most extraordinary natural wonders and cultural highlights. One of the most remarkable aspects of Cairns is its proximity to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, two World Heritage areas that sit side by side. This unique geographic location allows you to experience vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life as well as lush rainforests brimming with biodiversity, all in a single trip. The Great Barrier Reef near Cairns is home to six of the world’s seven species of sea turtles, making it a haven for those eager to witness these ancient mariners in their natural habitat. In addition, the Ribbon Reefs off the coast of Port Douglas is the only place in Australia where you can swim alongside the elusive Dwarf Minke Whale. These gentle giants visit the area for a brief period each year, offering a truly rare wildlife encounter that draws snorkelers and divers from around the globe. Cairns is also famous for the historic Cairns-Kuranda Railway, an engineering marvel built between 1882 and 1891. The railway traverses through fifteen hand-carved tunnels and over thirty-seven bridges, offering passengers breathtaking views as it winds its way through the rainforest to the artsy village of Kuranda where local markets, art galleries, and unique experiences await. The journey not only shows human ingenuity but also the region’s rugged landscapes. The Wet Tropics around Cairns are home to the cassowary, Australia’s largest land animal, which can weigh up to sixty kilograms, and sometimes even more. Known for their vivid blue necks and helmet-like casques, cassowaries are both beautiful and essential to the rainforest ecosystem, helping to spread seeds across vast areas. These large flightless birds have a powerful kick. Another geological wonder near Cairns is the Undara Lava Tubes. Stretching for 160 kilometers, these ancient lava caves were formed over 190,000 years ago by volcanic activity. The area around Mt Surprise, about a four-hour drive from Cairns, is dotted with lava tubes, craters, gem fields, and rejuvenating hot springs, offering a glimpse into the region’s dramatic volcanic past. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area has the highest concentration of bird species in Australia, with over four hundred species recorded, including thirteen found nowhere else in the world. The region is also rich in amphibians, boasting more than fifty-one species of frogs, many of which are rare. Cairns is surrounded by spectacular waterfalls, and Millstream Falls is a standout, it holds the title of Australia’s widest single-drop waterfall. The area’s abundant rainfall also contributes to its reputation: Tully and Babinda, both close to Cairns, vie for the title of Australia’s wettest town, each receiving more than 4,000 millimeters of rain annually. This makes the region a prime destination for thrilling white-water rafting adventures. Finally, Cairns and its surroundings are steeped in history. The first recorded European sighting of a kangaroo took place at Cooktown, north of Cairns, when botanists Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander arrived with Lieutenant James Cook in 1770. This moment marked a significant encounter between European explorers and Australia’s unique wildlife. With its rare wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, this part of Australia offers countless surprises and fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. It is home to rainforests that have survived for over one hundred million years, making them among the oldest on earth. Many plant and animal species found here cannot be found anywhere else in the world. At night, certain beaches and shallow waters glow with bioluminescent plankton, creating a spectacular natural light show that fascinates both scientists and all of us. Unlike their open-plain relatives, the tree kangaroos of this area have adapted to life in the dense rainforest canopy, skillfully leaping between branches and feeding on leaves high above the forest floor. This region is also known for hosting some of the world’s most venomous animals, including the box jellyfish. Cairns, Australia is a vibrant tropical city that serves as the gateway to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or looking for unique cultural experiences, Cairns has something to offer everyone. You can immerse yourself in world-class snorkeling and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, where the marine life and colorful coral formations are second to none. For those seeking a taste of Australia’s unique wildlife, guided tours offer the chance to see rare species like the Cassowary in lush rainforests or spot crocodiles in their natural habitat. Adventure seekers can push their limits with adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and skydiving over the stunning Atherton Tablelands. To unwind, you can relax at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a safe, picturesque saltwater swimming area perfect for those wishing to escape the tropical heat. Cairns, Australia inspires a sense of wonder and tranquility that’s hard to put into words. From the moment you arrive, there’s an unmistakable sense of openness and freedom, as if the city itself is inviting you to slow down and take in your surroundings. The warm, humid air and the sound of birds in the morning create a peaceful atmosphere, making it easy to let go of stress and embrace a more relaxed pace of life. There’s also an underlying sense of excitement, knowing that some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders are right on your doorstep. Whether strolling along the palm-lined Esplanade, feeling the sea breeze, or watching the colors of sunset reflect off the water, Cairns encourage a deep connection to nature. The friendly locals and vibrant social scene add another layer of warmth and belonging, making you feel both welcomed and inspired to explore all the adventures the region has to offer. |
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