🇦🇺 Sailing on Ocean Spirit in Cairns

(This guide is for those who accidentally flew to Cairns but dreamed of the Whitsundays 😅 – while the views aren’t identical, it’s a great way to ease the FOMO!) ⚠️ Note: No direct flights from Cairns to the Whitsundays. You’d need 2 days by train/car. So… choose one per trip! What makes the Whitsundays unique? Heart Reef ❤️ Whitehaven Beach 🏖️ Cairns Alternatives: 1️⃣ Whitehaven “Dupe”: Michaelmas Cay (via Ocean Spirit cruise) I scoured the web – this is the closest (and most affordable) alternative! Mostly欧美/Japanese tourists – less crowded, excellent service. Includes: Visit to Michaelmas Cay (bird island 🐦) Snorkeling + glass-bottom boat coral viewing 🐠 The cay is stunning – feels like Maldives-level water, with cute birds and no crowds! Shuttle boats available to/from the island (great for seasickness-prone folks). Highly recommended despite limited online reviews! 2️⃣ Heart Reef: No true substitute 😢, but we booked a 30-min helicopter tour 🚁 (~$1700 AUD – cheaper than boat+flight combos!). Saw multiple sand cays + Green Island from above → landed for photos with the helicopter (instagram gold!). There’s a $5000/person sandbar picnic package… skip unless you’re splurging on a private charter. Final Thoughts: Cairns surprised us! Relaxing vibes, unique tropical plants 🌴, non-sticky ocean air, and friendly birds everywhere. Night Market is a food haven – try IMM Thai (so good, the owner gave us free snacks after recognizing us!). #CairnsGuide #CairnsTours #OceanSpirit #CairnsHelicopter #GreatBarrierReef #TravelHacks 🇦🇺🌊