Is Thursday Island a safe place?

Yes, it is a standard regional Australian town.

No, there is no train service to Thursday Island.

Yes, it has a tropical climate.

How do I get to Thursday Island?

Fly to Horn Island and take the ferry.

What is the main industry?

Government services and tourism.

Julatten

Thursday Island

Flight Ship

Julatten to Thursday Island

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Julatten to Thursday Island involves a flight from Cairns to Horn Island, followed by a short ferry ride. Thursday Island is the administrative center of the Torres Strait Islands, known for its rich Indigenous culture and history. This route takes you to the northernmost point of Australia.

Total Distance: 800 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Cairns to Horn Island takes 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flight from Cairns to Horn Island is the only practical way.

Compare Julatten to Thursday Island Routes

	Flight Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	3 hours	15 mins
Avg Price	$500-$1000	$20-$40
Operator	QantasLink	Torres Strait Ferry
Route	Cairns (CNS) to Horn Island (HID), then ferry to Thursday Island.	Horn Island to Thursday Island.
Tip	Flights are the only practical way to reach the Torres Strait.	The ferry is the only way to get from the airport to Thursday Island.

Travel Tips

Culture
Respect the local Indigenous culture and traditions.
Weather
Thursday Island is hot and humid; pack light clothing.
Transport
Walking is the best way to explore the island.
Dining
Try the local seafood at the local restaurants.
Permits
Some islands in the Torres Strait require permits; check before you go.

Safety Tips

Sun Protection
The sun is strong; wear a hat and sunscreen at all times.
Emergency
Thursday Island Hospital provides 24/7 emergency care.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile signal can be spotty in remote areas.
Water Safety
Be aware of strong currents and marine life when swimming.