Port of Cairns

The controlling depth at Cairns is 8.05 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.

The approach to Cairns is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Fitzroy Island Lighthouse at 12.9 NM to the E. Other aids include Little Fitzroy Island (13.1 NM E), Russell Island (25.4 NM SE), Euston Reef (30.9 NM ENE), Rocky Islet (30.9 NM ENE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.

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.

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.

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.

CAIRNS (UN/Locode: AUCNS), Australia is a seaport located at approximately -16.93450° N, 145.77800° E.

Coordinates: -16.93450° N, 145.77800° E. Nearby terminals/ports:PORT DOUGLAS — UN/Locode: AUPTI — -16.49187° N, 145.45870° EINNISFAIL — UN/Locode: AUIFL — -17.52080° N, 146.05040° EMOURILYAN — UN/Locode: AUMOU — -17.60000° N, 146.12000° E

Harbor type/size: River Natural and Small. Cranes: mobile cranes and fixed cranes. Lifting: 0–24 MT lifts and 25–49 MT lifts. Support: wharf loading/offloading and turning area. Depths: channel depth 7.1m - 9.1m; anchorage depth 11m - 12.2m; cargo pier depth 9.4m - 10m; oil terminal depth 9.4m - 10m and maximum draft approx. 8.05 m.

Entrance/operational restrictions — tide: no specific restriction; swell: no specific restriction; ice: none; overhead limits: apply and other: may apply.

Communication & port formalities — telephone: available; radio (VHF): available; air services: available; rail: available; ETA message: required; quarantine pratique: available; deratting certificate: not available and first port of entry: not available. Pilotage & towage — pilotage: compulsory; tug assistance: available and tug salvage: not available.

Vessel types historically calling: Bulk Carrier, Container, Gas Carrier, General Cargo, Offshore, Passenger, Pleasure Craft, Ro Ro, Special Craft, Tanker and Tugs Harbor Craft.