The Australian city of Cairns, in Queensland's tropical north, is a former mining town that overlooks the sparkling Coral Sea. Today, this MSC World Cruise destination is distinguished by lush rain forests, including the Daintree National Park, and is considered a prime gateway to the Barrier Reef.

MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

● The Great Barrier Reef Experience
● The Historic Kuranda Scenic Railway
● Rainforest Rafting Adventure

The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, accounts for approximately 10% of the world's coral reef ecosystems. This natural wonder is one of the most complex environments on Earth, home to an abundance of mesmerising marine life. Explore this underwater paradise on an MSC Cruises excursion, where you’ll marvel at an infinite number of sea creatures living in coral gardens. Travel to a floating reef pontoon on a luxurious catamaran before snorkelling through the turquoise waters.

If you love historic trains then take an MSC Cruises excursion to the Kuranda Scenic Railway, where you’ll board a heritage-style carriage for the ride of a lifetime! Pass over 40 bridges and through 15 tunnels as you take in picturesque villages and lush green rainforests. Gaze at orchids, strangler figs, exotic palms, and rare animal species that flourish in Queensland’s pristine habitats. Take photos of this remarkable landscape as you listen to the fascinating commentary.

Grab a towel and put on a swimsuit for a rainforest rafting adventure! On an MSC Cruises excursion, you’ll experience the thrill of the currents at Barron River Gorge before speeding along the Hell's Gate rapids. In calmer waters, marvel at Queensland’s Wet Tropics — a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. Teeming with landscapes of outstanding natural beauty, you’ll take in a haven of flora, waterfalls, and wildlife.