Tour Overview
Hiring a tinny boat is one of the most relaxed and flexible ways to experience the waterways of Cairns. With Cairns Boat Hire’s Tinny Boat Hire, you’ll set off under your own steam to explore the calm, mangrove-lined channels of Trinity Inlet — a scenic estuary right on the edge of the city that feels a world away once you’re on the water.
This self-drive experience gives you the freedom to cruise at your own pace, whether you’re keen to cast a line in popular local fishing spots or simply enjoy a peaceful sightseeing cruise surrounded by rainforest hills and abundant birdlife. Pelicans, egrets and sea eagles are common sights, and the ever-changing inlet scenery makes every trip unique.
Tinny boats are available for half-day or full-day hire and are well suited to couples, mates or small families. With shaded seating, simple controls and no marine licence required, this is an easy and enjoyable way to experience one of Cairns’ most beautiful natural environments.
Tour Highlights
- Self-drive tinny boat hire on the calm waterways of Trinity Inlet
- Choice of half-day (4 hours) or full-day (8 hours) hire
- Stable 4-person tinny with canopy shade and bench seating
- Easy central console steering — no marine licence required
- Ideal for fishing, sightseeing or a relaxed day on the water
- Fuel and life jackets included in the hire rate
- Optional fishing gear, bait, ice and esky hire available
- Close-to-city experience with rainforest and mangrove scenery
- Wildlife sightings including pelicans, egrets and sea eagles
Perfect For
- Couples looking for a relaxed outdoor experience
- Mates planning a casual fishing session
- Small families wanting a flexible day on the water
- First-time boat hirers seeking an easy self-drive option
- Visitors wanting a non-tour, go-at-your-own-pace activity
- Locals keen to enjoy Trinity Inlet like the locals do
Inclusions
Minimum Age & Driver Requirements
- Driver / hirer must be 18 years or older
- Anyone under 18 must travel with a responsible adult
- Children aged 12 years and under must wear a life jacket
- Life jackets are provided and included
Included
- 4-person tinny boat hire
- Fuel
- Life jackets for all passengers
- Safety and introductory briefing
- Local advice on tides and fishing spots
- Assistance with departure and re-docking
- Shaded canopy and bench seating with cushions
Optional Add-Ons
- Skipper hire (counts toward passenger limit)
- Fishing rod hire
- Bait packs
- Bag of ice
Its best to check and confirm the optional add-on pricing prior to booking or arrival.
Itinerary
Check-In
- Arrive 15 minutes before your booked departure time
- Location: Wharf A, Marlin Marina, Cairns (adjacent to the Reef Fleet Terminal)
Half-Day Hire Options (4 hours)
- 8:00am – 12:00pm
- 12:30pm – 4:30pm
Full-Day Hire (8 hours)
- 8:00am – 4:30pm
During Your Hire
- Explore Trinity Inlet within the designated operating area
- Fishing and sightseeing at your own pace
- Safety briefing and operating map provided at check-in
Return
- Boats must be returned to Wharf A, Marlin Marina by the end of your hire period
What to Bring
- Hat and sun protection
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Camera or phone for photos
- Mobile phone (at least one per group)
- Drinks and snacks (BYO welcome)
- Fishing rods, bait, ice or esky (or hire on the day)
Safety Information
All guests receive a full safety and operational briefing before departure, including instructions on boat handling, designated operating areas, and local conditions. A map of Trinity Inlet is provided, and boats must remain within the approved area at all times.
Life jackets are included and must be worn by children aged 12 and under. Swimming is not permitted at any time in Trinity Inlet due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles. Guests must remain onboard at all times while on the water.
Tinny boat hire is self-guided. While staff are available to assist at departure and return, guests should come prepared with any personal medications or supplies they may require during their hire period.