To attend the Port Douglas Carnivale, scheduled for May 23–25, 2025, you have several travel options from Brisbane:
Flying (Fastest & Most Convenient)
Fly from Brisbane to Cairns
Direct flights take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar operate this route. Fares can start from around $114, depending on the airline and booking time .
Transfer from Cairns to Port Douglas
Port Douglas is about 70 km north of Cairns, roughly a 1-hour drive along the scenic Captain Cook Highway. Transportation options include:
Shuttle Services: Rodgers Rides offers shared shuttles from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas starting at $50 per adult (children half price). Private transfers are also available, with prices starting at $145 for 1–2 passengers. During the Carnivale period (May 15–29), use the code Carnivale for a 10% discount
Driving (Scenic Road Trip)
If you prefer a road trip, driving from Brisbane to Port Douglas covers approximately 1,900 km and takes about 22 hours and 25 minutes without detours . This route offers the opportunity to explore various attractions along Queensland's coast, such as the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, and Cairns.
Bus or Train (Budget-Friendly)
Bus: Long-distance bus services are available, with journeys taking around 31 hours and 44 minutes. Fares typically range from $150 to $203
Train and Bus Combination: Queensland Rail offers train services from Brisbane to Cairns. From Cairns, you can take a bus or shuttle to Port Douglas. This combined journey takes approximately 28 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $130 and $270 .?
Local Transport During Carnivale
Once in Port Douglas, local shuttle services will be operating extensively throughout the Carnivale. Rodgers Rides, a Carnivale sponsor, will run shuttles until 3 am during the event. They offer 1, 2, and 3-day passes starting from $15, providing convenient transportation between event venues
Cruise to the Carnivale – No Wheels? No Worries!
Introducing Carnivale Cruising – your exclusive ferry ride from Cairns to Savannah Sounds Port Douglas!
Reef Unlimited is making waves as the official tourism partner of Savannah Sounds at Port Douglas Carnivale (May 23–25). Skip the drive and cruise the coast in style aboard Aquarius II, with direct transfers to the heart of the action at Rex Smeal Park.
Depart Cairns: 1:00 PM | Return: 11:00 PM
1.5-hour scenic ferry ride with stunning coastal views
Chill festival vibes, no traffic, no hassle
Seats are limited – book now!
Learn More & Claim Your DiscountCarins to Port Douglas Ferry Transfers