Anchorage: Fitzroy Island QLD 

A large continental island rising sharply from the sea, surrounded by fringing coral reef, Fitzroy Island is located on the inner barrier of the Great Barrier Reef. Expect white sand beaches and superb snorkelling on a National Park Island just a short journey from Cairns.

  
Snorkel & Dive....Walking Trails....Day Tripper Resort....Aboriginal & European History

Snorkelling and diving is available straight off the reef in both Welcome Bay and Nudey Beach (clothes are optional).Certified and Introductory boat dives, with all gear supplied, can be booked through the resort.
 
Four walking tracks meander across the granite rocks and woodlands that cover the island, with the longest taking about 3 hours to traverse the 4.2km long Lighthouse Circuit.This track ascends dramatically past the old lighthouse to the 269mt summit.Walkers, once they catch their breath, are rewarded with an outstanding view across the sea to the islands and reefs of the outer Barrier Reef. 		 
Fitzroy Island Resort, positioned at the end of the public jetty welcomes day-trippers to use its facilities.The large beachfront pool is the centre of all activities, with a poolside bistro serving lunch and drinks.The Dive Shop sells basic beachgoers needs including sunscreen, hats and snorkelling gear (which can also be hired).At the time of visiting (Nov06) accommodation was not available as the resort underwent refurbishment of its rooms.

In 1770, Captain James Cook named Fitzroy Island, which had previously been known by the traditional people as Gabar.The Gurabana Gungandji people used this island for thousands of years for hunting, fishing and held ceremonies beneath the rainforest canopy.Their Dreamtime stories recall when the seas rose, submerging the grassy plains, and causing the mountain we know today as Fitzroy, to become an island. 		 






Anchorage
Approach to Fitzroy Island can be made from any direction, with lateral beacons marking the approach to the jetty in Welcome Bay, on the north west side of the island.Ferry services from Cairns, and joy rides from Fitzroy Is use this jetty frequently, and vessels should keep well clear.

Eight public moorings are available in Welcome Bay, rated for monohull vessels up to 10mt. Anchorage may be taken in this area over a sand and coral bottom, keeping clear of the marked channel into the jetty.Beware of bommies, which are readily seen on a clear day with overhead sunshine.Drop anchor keeping well clear of the fringing reef off the beach. Welcome Bay offers good protection from the prevailing SE trades. These winds blow consistently, often up to 25 knots, all year round, although they may disappear altogether for a brief period from late November onwards.Light northerlies may then appear, making this north facing anchorage untenable if the wind increases past 10-15 knots.

Anchorage location: Lat 16 deg 55.5S   Long 145 deg 59.3E

  
 

Photo Credit Fitzroyisland.com.au 

Checklist
Best Time to Go April to October is generally considered the dry season when there is less humidity and consistent SE winds.The wet season from November to March generally means high humidity, potential cyclones and fickle winds.Dangerous box jellyfish also inhabit coastal waters during this time and swimming is not recommended without the protection of a full-body stinger suit.
How Long to Get There Fitzroy Island is only 15 nm from Cairns, just 2nm SE of Cape Grafton.
Fuel & Provisions Fuel is not available on Fitzroy.Water may be obtained via jerry cans filled from the resort.There is a small resort shop selling basic beach needs (sunscreen, drinks etc).All provisioning should be done before leaving Cairns.
Cruising Guide Cruising the Coral Coast by Alan Lucas
Charts: Paper AUS830 Russell Island to Low Islets
Charts: C-Map Richards Island to Cape Tribulation
Destination Info Fitzroy Island
Zoning The waters surrounding Fitzroy Island form part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and are in a Conservation Zone. The actual island is a National Park, with the exception of where the Resort is located at Welcome Bay.
 
 

  TRAVEL…..BOATING…..LIFESTYLE…..

All information contained on this site should be used in conjunction with current official charts. Despite a high degree of confidence that all information was accurate at time of publishing, AMG accepts no responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies.If you discover incorrect facts please Email us. All material and images appearing on this website are copyright to Australian Marinas Guide and may not be reproduced without the written permission of AMG.www.marinasguide.com.au

© 2010 Another great web site by Red Lid Advertising and Design