Excursion Historic cooktown tour at Cooktown

On this introductory tour of Cooktown visit Captain Cook's landing place, the Botanical Gardens and have some free time at the James Cook Museum.

Departing your ship, you'll visit Captain Cook's landing place to hear the story of this famed navigator and the Endeavour disaster. You'll also learn about the wild times in Cooktown during the gold rush, and how this small town was once home to the second largest port in Queensland. Continue on the Botanical Gardens and Natures Powerhouse before arriving at the James Cook Museum for fascinating insights into the local history.

This museum is operated by the Queensland National Trust and is regarded as the best regional museum outside any capital city in Australia. The building was erected as the convent of Saint Mary and was built during the gold rush era in 1888-9. During World War II, the building was used as a U.S. command post and the Sisters of Mercy were evacuated, never to return. The building fell into disrepair until 1969 when it was restored to its former glory and was reopened by the Queen in 1970 as the ""James Cook Museum"". It was again refurbished in 1999 and now houses the anchor and cannon of the HMS Bark Endeavour and Chinese, Pastoral, Mining, and Indigenous collections. After the tour, you may return to the ship, or remain in town for further exploration on your own.

After the tour, you may return to the ship, or remain in town for further exploration on your own.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Enjoy an introductory tour of Cooktown, visiting Captain Cook’s landing place, the Botantical Gardens and free time at the James Cook Museum

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 100 - 500 metres (328 - 1640 feet), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and staircases at the Museum and Grassy Hill lookout (both optional). This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair however coaches are not equipped with lifts therefore guests must be able to get in/out of the vehicle on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and sunscreen are recommended. The tour sequence may vary.