ARRIVING IN CAIRNS:

The Vessel must give Customs and Quarantine 96 hours notice of arrival into Cairns.

Cairns is the perfect entry point to Australia and the stunning Tropical North Queensland cruising grounds. The first port of call for vessels arriving from Asia or the South Pacific, the city is a one-stop shop for vessels clearing into Australia .

Port of arrival:

Any foreign registered vessel arriving from overseas must clear into a section 15 port within 48 hours of entering Australian waters. Cairns and Mackay are both eligible ports.

On arrival, the vessel may be boarded by both Customs and Quarantine Officers (AQIS) to ensure the vessel complies with the legislated requirements.

Visas:

All crew other than Australian or New Zealand will be required to have a valid Australian visa. Most nationalities may apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

Quarantine:

Quarantine helps to protect Australia ‘s unique environment. All passengers must declare all food, plant material and animal products on arrival in Australia to ensure they are free of pests and diseases. Some products may require treatment or may need to be destroyed by AQIS.

Essential paperwork:

The following documents should be lodged at least 48 hours prior to your arrival in Cairns :

• Vessel Detail Report.
• AQIS Application for Quarantine Pratique
• Australian Customs Small Craft Report
• Incoming Passenger Cards for all crew (to be completed on arrival and handed to Customs)

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ)

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is a government agency attached to Queensland Transport. MSQ’s role is to protect Queensland’s waterways and the people who use them – providing safer, cleaner seas.

MSQ has responsibility for:

• Improving maritime safety for shipping and small craft through regulation and education.
• Minimising vessel sourced waste and providing response to marine pollution.
• Providing essential maritime services such as port pilots and aids to navigation.
• Encouraging and supporting innovation in the maritime industry.

Pilotage requirements

Maritime Safety Queensland issues approvals to enter Queensland ports.

Pilotage is required for International vessels over 50m in length to enter the Channel and the Port Of Cairns.

Vessels under 70m can cruise the Great Barrier Reef without a Pilot.