FAQ
Yes, we get wet (unless you're a spectator).
All sections, depending on weather and group, have a jump height of 2–4 metres, which are all optional.
Prepare yourself to walk over 500m throughout the whole experience. If you are joining us on our full day Spillway section then this will be approximately 4kms of exploring.
Canyoning: Board shorts, swimmers (briefs and leggings are best under the wetsuits). Dry clothes, towel, sunscreen. Daily medication. Extra cash if you would like to purchase your photos/video or merchandise. Wear contact lenses rather than prescription glasses. Closed toed shoes (runners/joggers) and socks – available for hire. Humour & a sense of adventure.
River Boarding: As well as the above list — shoes aren't needed, but socks can be a good idea for under the fins to prevent rubbing/blisters.
Where do we meet? Reef Fleet Terminal, Bus Bay 7 (1 Spencer Street, Cairns CBD).
Can you pick me up from the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas? Yes, we can – hooray! Per booking group return transport fees are: $50 for the Northern Beaches and $350 for Port Douglas. Morning traffic can be a nightmare on our buses, and due to limited staffing we're unable to service a wide range of pickup locations. We strongly recommend using a public shuttle or Uber into the city, where we can arrange to meet you. If you're travelling as a large group, please get in touch.
Can you pick me up from the Cairns CBD area? Yes, we offer pick ups around the city area… You might need to take an Uber to our base: 12 Ascot Ave, Westcourt, or central pick up spot Reef Fleet Terminal – Bus Bay 7. Please note we don't pick up from private residential addresses, including Airbnbs, unless confirmed group bookings.
People aged 17 years and under can participate, but will need to be accompanied by a parent / guardian. Guests under the age of 18 years must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver as a witness and on their behalf. We have had people in their mid 80's – 90's on our experiences — as long as you are comfy on your feet and feel confident with your fitness levels, you are welcome to join us. Every participant must sign a liability release form prior to commencing the trip.
8–12 years: Behana Gorge. 13+ years: Crystal Cascades, Spillway Advanced, Barron River Boarding, Tully Riverboarding.
We always have a guide with you to show you the way and help find those hidden gems. Our Guide:Guest ratio is 1 Guide : 6 Guests (or 2 Guides : 12 Guests, etc).
Fitness levels: We accept your challenge and cater to everyone's pace, size, ability & age.
Swimming abilities: Guests need a very basic level of confidence to manoeuvre in the water. For our River Boarding and advanced tours, all participants have to complete water confidence training, which involves swimming a grade 2 rapid prior to the tour. If unable to complete the training for whatever reason, individuals will not be able to participate.
Medical conditions: Participants should disclose any medical conditions (including allergies) at time of booking, that way we can best cater to everyone on the day. As our tours are a physically demanding adventure there are some medical conditions, impairments or disabilities may exclude participants from participation for safety reasons including but not limited to pregnancy, spinal injuries, some neck injuries. Please call us to discuss any concerns.
Minimum numbers: We require a minimum of 5 people to guarantee departure. Until then it's not a confirmed departure, and in the unlikely event we need to cancel the tour we will try our best to find an alternative, otherwise a full refund will be issued (when booked direct).
Cancellation policy: 0–48 hours before travel will attract a 100% cancellation fee at the Operator's discretion. If booked through a third party (not direct), you will need to check their Terms & Conditions in regards to refunds.
Force Majeure: In the case of Force Majeure in/around Cairns (circumstances beyond our reasonable control including, but not limited to, threat of war or war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, disease, industrial disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and strikes), Cairns Waterfalls/Rapid Boarders will not be liable for any delay, change or cancellation of a trip. Cairns Waterfalls will refund all direct booking monies if we need to cancel our trip.
Cairns Waterfalls/Rapid Boarders is also not responsible for expenses incurred while preparing for a cancelled trip (e.g. non-refundable advance purchase of meals, entrance fees not booked through us, visa fees, loss of enjoyment, etc.) or for any additional arrangements made before or after the cancelled trip.
Yes, we absolutely encourage guests to bring a hands-free camera! (That means a camera you can use without needing to hold it in your hands.) You'll need to bring your own mounts or attachments.
Our adventures take place in real outback terrain — slippery rocks, fast-moving water, and the occasional bump or splash. There is always a risk of loss or damage to personal devices, so bring them at your own discretion. Alternatively you can purchase your photos for $39 or video for $65.
Cairns Canyoning and its staff accept no responsibility for any loss or damage to personal items during your adventure.
Chat with us: We have people answering questions through our website 24 hours a day. Emails are generally answered within 12 hours. Phone lines are answered 7 days a week, 6am til 8pm.
Payment policies: All bookings made direct through the operator will be charged the full amount including the levy at the time of booking, unless otherwise discussed with the operator. Bookings via a booking agent will follow the agent's policy, which may include full payments or deposits only.
If full payment is not made at the time of booking, credit card and customer contact details are needed to secure the booking. No shows will be charged at full price if no notice is provided, so please do the right thing and chat to us about it.
