Cooktown

Australia

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Cooktown, Australia

Named after the famous British Navigator Captain James Cook, Cooktown is located on the coast of Cape York Peninsula. Since the town is uniquely situated among several major ecozones - tropical rainforest, sclerophyll forests, lagoons and sand dunes - the region is an outdoor playground for visitors looking to hike, fish, bird watch or simply soak in panoramic views on a scenic drive. In town, learn about the local history at James Cook Museum and stroll through the Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest in the country. Cooktown's biggest draw, though, is its close proximity to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef where you can snorkel or dive among a dizzying array of colourful fish, sea turtles, unique molluscs and perhaps even glimpse a whale or dolphins.

What you NEED TO KNOW

  • Port Name & Location
    Port of Cooktown. Ship will DOCK at this port.
  • Time Zone
    Australian Eastern Standard (AES)
    UTC/GMT+10
  • Language
    After English, the most commonly spoken language is Guugu Yimithirr, their native language.
  • Currency & Shopping
    The local currency is the Australian Dollar ($).
    • Famous For
      The Great Barrier Reef, the largest living thing on Earth, is the closest to the mainland at this port. Easily accessible for snorkelling and many other excursions.
    • Fun Fact #1
      The port’s name comes from Captain James Cook, a European explorer that ran aground on nearby reefs off the coast, making it the first true white settlement on Australian soil.
    • Fun Fact #2
      Known for its bushwalking trails from where you can enjoy the views over the Great Barrier Reef and the Endeavour Valley.
    • Fun Fact: Landmarks
      Every summer the community re-enacts Captain James Cook’s, historic landing, complete with replica ship, cannon fire and period costume in honor of its establishment.

Featured Cooktown CRUISE ITINERARIES

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