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Port of Cairns

AUCNS🇦🇺AU

Port Location

About Port of Cairns

The Port of Cairns (AUCNS) is a maritime port facility located in AU. It features a maximum draft of 8.5m. The facility is classified as a medium-sized port. Local time zone: UTC+10.

Vessel capacity and restrictions: The controlling depth at Cairns is 8.5 meters. Vessel masters should confirm current draft restrictions with the port authority before arrival.

Port classification: As a medium-sized port, Cairns serves a range of commercial and regional shipping needs including general cargo, smaller container vessels, and coastal traffic.

Position: -16.9158°S, 145.7870°E. UN/LOCODE: AUCNS.

Geographic context: The Port of Cairns is situated on the Coral Sea. The location falls within the tropical climate zone with warm waters and seasonal monsoons.

Vessel Limits

Max Draft
8.5m

General Information

Port Name
Cairns
Country
🇦🇺AU
UNLOCODE
AUCNS
Time Zone
UTC+10
Facility Size
Medium
Latitude
-16.9158°
Longitude
145.7870°

Navigation Aids Near Cairns

Fitzroy Island Lighthouse

12.4 NME

Russell Island Lighthouse

25.8 NMSE

Euston Reef Lighthouse

29.9 NMENE

Low Isles Lighthouse

34.5 NMNNW

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the draft restrictions at the Port of Cairns?+
The controlling depth at Cairns is 8.5 meters. Draft restrictions should be confirmed with the port authority before arrival, as silting, dredging operations, and tidal conditions can affect available depths. Pilotage is typically required for larger vessels.
What types of cargo and vessels does the Port of Cairns handle?+
As a medium-sized facility, Cairns serves general cargo vessels, smaller container ships, coastal tankers, and ro-ro ferries. It commonly handles breakbulk, project cargo, and regional trade. Vessel operators should contact the port authority for specific berth availability and cargo handling capabilities.
How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Cairns?+
The approach to Cairns is supported by 4 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Fitzroy Island Lighthouse at 12.4 NM to the E. Other aids include Russell Island (25.8 NM SE), Euston Reef (29.9 NM ENE), Low Isles (34.5 NM NNW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Cairns on?+
The Port of Cairns is situated on the Coral Sea in AU. The area falls within the tropical climate zone with warm waters and seasonal monsoons, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Cairns?+
You can track vessels near Cairns (AUCNS) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for AUCNS on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Cairns?+
The Port of Cairns operates in the UTC+10 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.