More about Townsville
Why go to Townsville?
Exudes an old-world regional Australian town appeal
It's the tropics, so expect high humidity and heat in summer
Townsville is conveniently located to explore both reef and rainforest
Townsville Cruise Port Facilities?
If your vessel is up to 238 metres long, you will be docked in the port of Townsville at the near-new cruise ship terminal, Quayside Terminal (Lennon Drive, South Townsville). Larger vessels anchor off Magnetic Island and passengers are ferried to shore with SeaLink Queensland.
Quayside Terminal is located on the banks of Ross Creek, and is just two kilometres from the Townsville CBD. Stand at the outdoor Breezeway at the terminal to enjoy views of Cleveland Bay, Magnetic Island, Castle Hill and Townsville city.
There are buses and taxi bays at the terminal, which is within walking distance of Townsville's CBD and Palmer Street precinct. There is also parking provided 400 metres from Quayside and guests can walk or take a shuttle bus to the venue.
There is an information desk, restroom facilities and the terminal building has air conditioning and fans. Expect live music and volunteers on hand who are there to provide information about Townsville's top attractions.
There are ATMs dotted around the CBD (at 87/95 Flinders St and 81 Palmer St) and a friendly meet-and-greet team from Townsville Enterprise will be on hand to welcome cruise passengers embarking or disembarking in Townsville and to distribute city maps. The terminal provides free Wi-Fi Internet access and has a dedicated Wi-Fi lounge. Ask a member of the meet-and-greet team to direct you to tour coaches, shuttle buses, taxis and private pick-up areas.
Passengers arriving at the Quayside Terminal can walk into the city by taking a left on Ross Street, which turns into Palmer Street, the city's main eat street. Follow the path across the pedestrianised Victoria Bridge into the city centre.
Good to Know?
Townsville is located in the dry tropics of north Queensland, so receives less rain than its northern counterpart, Cairns. But the fact the city boasts 300 days of sun means you will need to get serious about protecting your skin.
Getting Around?
By Foot: Getting around Townsville is easy as a lot of the city's main tourist attractions are within a 20-minute walk of the port. Walk across the Heritage-listed Victoria Bridge -- a swing bridge - across Ross Creek and you will arrive in the city centre.
By Bus: There's a free shuttle bus service that takes passengers from the Quayside Terminal to the City Bus Exchange.
By Taxi: Taxis service the Townsville CBD and wheelchair-accessible taxis are available on request.
By Rental Car: If you want to travel a little further before or after your cruise you can hire a car at
Avis Australia car rentals. You can book in advance on the company's website. (81-83 Flinders Street East, 07 4799 2022; open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, 9 am to noon, Saturday 9 am to noon, Sunday 9am to noon)
By Ferry: If your ship is moored at Magnetic Island you will arrive at SeaLink near to the Quayside Terminal. It's an 8 km ferry ride to Magnetic Island from the Townsville terminal.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The local currency is the Australian dollar. For current currency conversion figures, visit www.xe.com. There are several ATMs and banks in the centre of the city for obtaining Australian dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Language?
English, with a heavy Aussie accent.
