Cairns: Jet Boat Ride Trinity Inlet Thrills & Spins

Summary

Jet boat spins, wild splashes & Cairns’ tropical inlet rush

You’ll grip the safety bar as your jet boat launches into Trinity Inlet’s wild curves with an expert captain at the helm. Expect big spins, salty sprays, quick laughs with fellow passengers, and maybe even spot local wildlife as you zip through Cairns’ waterways. It’s fast, loud, wet—and leaves you grinning long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to second-guess my life choices before the jet boat lurched forward, right off Marlin Marina in Cairns. Our captain — Ben, who looked like he’d never worn shoes a day in his life — grinned back at us and cranked up some Aussie rock. I clutched the bar tighter than I meant to. The water smelled briny and sharp, and the air was thick, almost sticky on my skin. Then we hit our first spin and everyone shrieked (me loudest, probably). I got a faceful of spray — salty, cold, kind of woke me up better than coffee.

We zigzagged through Trinity Inlet so fast that the mangroves blurred green along the edges. Ben pointed out a rusted old shipwreck (he called it “Cairns’ most reliable landmark”) and kept an eye out for crocs — apparently they sometimes drift by, though we just saw a big heron staring at us like we were nuts. The music thumped under us while the boat skipped across little waves; at one point I tried to say something to the guy next to me but just got a mouthful of wind instead. You really do need clothes you don’t mind getting soaked.

The whole thing only lasted about 35 minutes but honestly felt longer — in a good way. My arms tingled from holding on so tight and my cheeks hurt from laughing. There was this weird moment when we slowed down near the mangroves and everything went quiet except for cicadas buzzing somewhere inland. I still think about that silence after all that noise. Back at the marina, we dripped our way onto dry land again. Not sure if my hair will ever recover from that saltwater mess but yeah… worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet boat ride in Cairns inlet

• Meet captain at Marlin Marina
• Receive safety gear and briefing
• Board jet boat
• Enjoy high-speed spins and splashes
• Listen to captain’s commentary
• Spot wildlife and landmarks
• Return to marina

Top questions

How long is the Cairns jet boat ride?

The ride lasts approximately 35 minutes from start to finish.

Where does the Cairns jet boat tour depart from?

The tour departs from Marlin Marina in Cairns.

Is there a minimum height requirement for the jet boat ride?

Yes, all passengers must be at least 110cm (1.1 meters) tall.

Will I get wet during the Cairns jet boat experience?

Yes, expect to get splashed—wear clothes that can get wet.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back, neck, or heart conditions.

Is public transportation available near Marlin Marina?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Does the tour include a safety briefing?

Yes, you’ll receive a safety briefing before boarding the jet boat.

What’s included

Your experience includes a full safety briefing before departure and a 35-minute high-speed jet boat ride through Cairns’ Trinity Inlet with an expert captain guiding you along every twist and splash.