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Daintree Tours
Daintree River 'Dawn' Cruise with the Daintree Boatman
5

Daintree River 'Dawn' Cruise with the Daintree Boatman

By Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises
Recommended by 98% of travellers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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Discover the natural wonders of the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest from the water on this early morning cruise. Set sail along the Daintree River at dawn when the cooler temperatures are ideal for wildlife watching and cruise through the scenic wetlands and mangrove forests. Along the way, look out for wildlife such as crocodiles, snakes, kingfishers, and herons; and learn about the region’s unique ecosystems from your guide.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 6-99, max of 10 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
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Highlights
  • Stunning views of the Daintree Rainforest from the water
  • Dawn cruise: experience the river at its most tranquil
  • Spot crocodiles and exotic birds in their natural environment
  • Small boat cruise with a maximum of 10 passengers

  • Driver/guide
  • Entry/Admission - Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises
What's not included
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off


Start:
  • Daintree Public Boat Ramp, Riverview Caravan Park, 2 Stewart St, Daintree QLD 4873, Australia
    Daintree Village boat ramp, beside Riverview Lodge & Van Park, 150m downhill from the Daintree Village Hotel
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 86779P1

    • Most travellers can participate
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Recommended to bring a hat and jacket for weather protection
    • Vessel is roofless but has a dual Bimini roof that can be erected in inclement conditions
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 86779P1

    From
    AU$72.00
    per adult
    Select date and travellers
    Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

    Similar experiences

    Itinerary
    • Riverview Caravan Park, 2 Stewart St, Daintree QLD 4873, Australia
      Daintree Village boat ramp, beside Riverview Lodge & Van Park, 150m downhill from the Daintree Village Hotel
    • 1
      Start your day with a cruise on the mighty Daintree river.  This 2 hour cruise takes you on journey of discovery exploring the main river and its tributaries in search of iconic wildlife including crocodiles, birds and snakes.  The dawn cruise showcases the river at is most picturesque and serene as the boat travels along the smooth waters of the Daintree river.  The river meanders through tranquil farmland and into the bounds of the Daintree rainforest from its freshwater origins into the saline tributaries to explore the mangroves and surrounds.  The small boat allows for up to 10 passengers to experience the river in comfort with a professional guide to personalise the experience. Tours depart from the Daintree Village boat ramp.
    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises
      629
      Australia
      Joined in July 2009
    • Kingfishisher72
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great trip - and we saw crocodiles
      Great trip with a really knowledgeable guide. He maneuvered the boat superbly to enable us to get great photos of the wildlife. He used his expert knowledge of the area and the animals that live there to enable us to get great views of a couple of crocodiles. Highly recommend
      Written 18 November 2024
    • X3614SIestherr
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Sunset River Cruise
      Very nice sunset cruise around the Daintree River. Cool the Murray wnated to know what the guests were particularly interested in - we saw loads of different birds, a tree snake and two crocs!
      Written 7 November 2024
    • oonitoon
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Spectacular sunset cruise with or without wildlife, views alone are worth it.
      Murray was very knowledgeable with a dry sense of humour. We were on the sunset cruise and saw a plethora of birds. My husband is a keen bird watcher and we noted over 25 different species of birds including the adorable Azure Kingfisher (several) and the Papuan Frogmouth. Too many to list here. Unfortunately wildlife was in limited supply, Murray explained that at this time of year the waters of the river are warming up so wildlife like crocodiles can stay underwater for longer in the day. We did see an Amethyst Python and of course butterflies and dragon flies. Would recommend this sunset cruise but understand that wildlife is not guaranteed, cruising down the beautiful Daintree River with stunning views, trees and foliage was worth it with or without wildlife.
      Written 3 October 2024
    • label2018
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great cruise, expert guide, with birds, snakes and, yes, crocodiles.
      Croc-focused river cruises are easy to find on the Daintree but finding one that caters to people interested in other wildlife as well is hard. We had a particular interest in reptiles and birds and Murray was an extremely knowledgeable guide, who knew where to find as many as possible and could tell us about them. We had a small group with similar interests, so there wasn't the big crocs/tiny birds conflict that could arise. I got to see one of my favourite snakes some new birds, and, yes, crocodiles. We wanted to book another cruise but nothing was available during the rest of our stay, but we hope to come back and will certainly try to do another cruise with this company.
      Written 27 September 2024
    • SC71_11
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent trip
      Excellent trip with Murray. Great to be on the river and see the birds and crocs. Coming back with the sun setting was truly magical. Great to be able to get so close to the birds as well.
      Written 2 September 2024
    • Pioneer31082988767
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing experience
      The experience was amazing. It was informative, enjoyable and great value for money. We saw some memorable wildlife including many different species of birds, snakes and some huge crocs both on the bank and swimming near us. The Daintree River scenery was absolutely stunning especially at this time of the day. Can’t recommend it highly enough. Thanks, Murray.
      Written 17 August 2024
    • U5597ONjennyw
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Sunset Highlight
      This small boat tour along the river and creek was a highlight of our holiday. Murray was able to point out multiple birds, vegetation and crocodiles- he certainly knows this patch or the river extremely well. The cruise back into the sunset was peaceful and a lovely conclusion.
      Written 27 July 2024
    • Trip42106922117
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great trip and ideal time of day
      Helpful guide who knew his stuff. A great trip and would recommend. Not a long journey at all, but seeing great sights. :)
      Written 23 July 2024
    • danielmB1917LB
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Totally recommend.
      As a wild life enthusiast I had a great time, Murray was happy to accomodate everyone on the boat. We saw lots of crocs and birds and were treated to facts about all species we encountered. I'd definitely recommend this cruise for all ages and walks of life.
      Written 11 July 2024
    • 697maddys
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Incredible tour, amazing wildlife
      We were blown away by the beauty of the Daintree river, made more special by Murray and his extensive knowledge and the incredible golden hour. We saw multiple crocs, snakes and rare to see birdlife (including a great billed heron!!!). The tour didn’t feel rushed and we spent a good amount of time with each sighting. Overall a very relaxing and beautiful sunset cruise which we would definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you Murray! -Gregor and Maddy
      Written 5 July 2024
    • 831randalll
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jewel in the crown of the Daintree
      There is no better way to experience the beauty of this region, than on a tour of the mighty Daintree River with Murray Hunt of Daintree Boatman. Some close encounters (but not too close) of large crocodiles, 3 species of gorgeous Kingfishers, the camouflaged Papuan Frogmouth, 2 species of Flycatchers, Green Tree Snake and much more. And not to forget Murrays very informative commentary.
      Written 1 July 2024
    • Curious420624
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A beautiful experience on the river
      This is the second time we have done this cruise and both were truly wonderful experiences. Saw many wildlife including crocodiles, appreciated the landscape and rainforest and it was beautiful and peaceful being out on the river especially at that time of day. Murray is an excellent and very knowledgeable guide and also leaves quiet time for reflection. Thoroughly recommended.
      Written 10 June 2024
    • Drdaz
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Wonderful experience!
      An excellent tour, in a stunning area, at a beautiful time of day. Murray is a great host, with a very keen eye, and a tonne of knowledge of the river and the nature on and around it. Can highly recommend!
      Written 9 June 2024
    • L1745CHpaulj
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Daintree River wildlife comes alive!
      My cousin who lives in Newport, NSW recommended Murray as he had taken his kids a few years previously. Needless to say I was not disappointed! Murray is incredibly knowledgeable about the local environment whatever your particular interest (mine was birds) and a bloody nice bloke to boot! Crocs, snakes, kingfishers and other bird life of all shapes, colour and sizes, it didn’t matter, as with an almost uncanny knack, they all seemed to be exactly wherever Murray pointed the boat. Cannot recommend highly enough.
      Written 6 June 2024
    • tihom2023
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best boat cruise
      A fantastic boat ride on the daintree river. Skipper Murray was knowledgeable, deadpan witty and had a keen eye for creatures large and small, hidden in plain sight. The convertible electric boat was perfectly suited to the river. We benefited from Murray’s deep knowledge of the flora and fauna of the area. A highlight of our entire trip.
      Written 6 June 2024
    See all 629 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles190 reviews
    Excellent
    181
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    6
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    1
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    0

    Malcolm Wright
    Bury St. Edmunds, UK2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2019
    We did the early morning trip on the Daintree River with Murray Hunt on 7th December 2019 and thoroughly enjoyed the two and a half hours. The Daintree is a beautiful river and there were just six of us on the boat. Murray showed us Papuan Frogmouth on a nest, Spotted Whistling Duck, Oriental Cuckoos, Wompoo Fruit Dove, Black Bittern and many other birds, not to mention a 4.5 metre Crocodile and tree snakes. Murray has a great knowledge of the river and gave us an excellent commentary without being intrusive. He took us into several side creeks which a larger boat would be unable to access. Highly recommended.
    Written 14 February 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you very much for your lovely review. I'm pleased that so many good birds and animals appeared on the day. Thanks for visiting.
    Written 19 February 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    jlpoletto
    Townsville, Australia47 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    July 2020 • Couples
    The beauty of this river and it’s flora and fauna is best viewed on the river itself. Murray’s clean, comfortable and very stable boat with its extra electric motor for quiet manoeuvring to view and photograph the spectacular birds provided an exceptional and memorable experience. Murray’s understated but obvious expertise in all things ‘Daintree’ wildlife underscored the beauty and diversity of what we saw. I cannot recommend Murray the boatman highly enough. A MUST DO on a far north qld sojourn.
    Written 8 July 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for your wonderful review. The boat has gone through several evolutions and at the moment it is looking and working at its best. The recent addition of a very expensive electric motor pays dividends daily in wonderful wildlife observations.
    Written 9 July 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Trevinbne
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2021 • Couples
    Murray was an excellent guide and went the extra mile to get us up close to crocodiles, snakes and birds. On our private dawn trip we got amazing photos of crocodiles, great-billed heron, striated heron, papuan frogmouths, radjah ducks with ducklings and three species of kingfisher. We also saw a yellow tree snake and an amethystine python. Murray was very knowledgeable and seemed very eager to share the secrets of this beautiful part of the world. I'd love to come back and do it again.
    Written 15 April 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for your review. It was certainly a memorable morning on the river. Lots of goodies turned up and performed for the camera. Thanks to you two as well. I enjoyed the morning too.
    Written 16 April 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Edward S
    Adelaide, Australia30 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2022
    This was my third cruise with Murray and I am not disappointed. Murray shares a wealth of knowledge with his clients about the Daintree ecosystem and its associated wildlife. He has a very sharp eye when it comes to spotting wildlife , from small gerygones lurking in dense foliage to shy fruit doves hiding high up in the canopies. Before his clients are even aware of crocks in the water, Murray has spotted them lurking in the dark waters or lying on sandbars . Slithering tree snakes are so well camouflaged in the trees but if you wish to see one , Murray will do his best to spot one and he has not failed yet when I have been onboard. Overall his cruise is very interesting , fun and allows sufficient time to take photos, admire the sunrise and absorb the true beauty of this amazing wilderness .
    Written 11 August 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you very much for your enthusiastic review! Regular repeat attendance is the greatest compliment any small business can receive. Thank you.
    Written 12 August 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Sandra S
    Perth, Australia724 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2020
    Murray's knowledge not only of wildlife, but the history of the area was first class. I feel the fact that his boat is fitted with an electric motor is a big advantage over other operators within this section of the river. This allowed us to get in close for photo opportunities without disturbing the crocs or birdlife. I appreciated Murray asking of our particular interests prior to departing, and I also thought it was a nice touch for us to introduce ourselves to fellow passengers with name and homebase. Excellent value for money and if I had my time again I would do both the Dawn and Sunset Cruise with Murray!!
    Written 29 August 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you Sandra. I’m pleased you enjoyed your cruise. See you next time in the late afternoon!
    Written 30 August 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Cathy
    Leicester, UK4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nov 2024 • Couples
    After spending 7 nights in Sydney and 4 nights in Port Douglas; nearing the end of our holiday, we thought we had experienced all we could.

    We were recommended the Daintree Boatman by our hosts and thought the pricing for a 2 hour river trip was extremely good value.

    As avid nature people we had high hopes to see some of Australia’s iconic wildlife.

    We met a friendly, relaxed and very knowledgable guide who made us feel welcome at 6:30am!

    This was the best experience we’ve had on our holiday. We were lucky enough to see crocodiles (at the wrong time of year). Our big ticket item was an azure kingfisher and thanks to the Daintree boatman’s incredible manoeuvring, knowledge of Barratt Creek and wildlife behaviour, we got within 6 feet of this beautiful bird.

    Would recommend The Daintree Boatman to anyone as a must do experience whilst in FNQ.
    Written 1 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Great! That is a brilliant review! Thank you! 😀
    Written 8 December 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Lee
    Brisbane, Australia13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2021
    Such a nice way to experience one river of the Daintree and its flora and wildlife. Murray was very knowledgeable. I was impressed at his keen eye for spotting even the tiniest baby crocodile to the great billed heron blending into the vegetation. Well worth getting up early to experience. The tour group is a nice small size and you really will have a lovely morning. I'd recommend following up the tour with a nice breakfast locally, you won't be disappointed.
    Written 7 September 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you very much. I'm pleased you enjoyed your day.
    Written 9 September 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Indira R
    Brisbane, Australia1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2021 • Couples
    I am still reminiscing the river cruise, it was one of those truly gorgeous experience, Murray is super knowledgeable he explains everything with attention to the details, the story he weaves immerses us into the river, the forest surrounding us, the species he just makes nature more heavenly. We truly enjoyed every moment on the river, he took care of our special wishes to see a croc & birds made sure we spotted them. Will definitely take my friends back on his boat.
    Written 27 October 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you. It was a pleasure to have you aboard.
    Written 28 October 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    adrianscotthenderson
    Occitanie, France3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    July 2020
    Among wildlife photographers Murray Hunt is well known for delivering when it comes to accessing those special animals of the Daintree. And so it proved on our recent dawn trip with Murray. The Great Billed Heron is renowned as a difficult bird to see in Australia let alone photograph. And to see a pair displaying to each other in clear view at close distance in the trees above a tributary of the Daintree took consummate skill on Murray’s part as a boat man and naturalist.
    But whether it was following crocodiles, getting close to kingfishers and other water birds, describing the ecology of the Daintree , answering questions and engaging with his passengers ,Murray left us all filled with admiration for his professionalism and people skills!
    Here is a trip that would leave everybody , not just wildlife photographers , with unforgettable memories and a respectful admiration of the Daintree.
    Written 22 July 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you Adrian for your wonderful review - it made my wife’s eyes water with gratitude and pride. It was a pleasure to have you and Siobhan aboard.
    Written 6 August 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Michael H
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2022
    Murray's enthusiasm was infectious - right from the start when he pointed out White Spotted Whistling Ducks (a seasonal highlight) landing on the bank opposite and we had only just left the jetty. He must have eyes in the back of his head! This set the bar high for the rest of the trip and we were not disappointed. Sightings came thick and fast - kingfishers, shining flycatchers, gerygones, frogmouth, orioles, python, tree snake and rounded off with another highlight - a Heron. Murray, you left us breathless on your beautiful river. We cannot recommend your Sunrise Cruise highly enough. Thank you for a fantastic morning.
    Written 21 October 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you Michael for your wonder review. I remember this cruise distinctly. Terrific cruise starting immediately with some highly sought after ducks newish to Australia.
    Written 23 October 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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    Daintree River 'Dawn' Cruise with the Daintree Boatman provided by Daintree Boatman Wildlife Cruises

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