Douglas Shire Council has confirmed that an interim passenger ferry and bus service cannot begin until the northern landing area at the Daintree River is made safe, with engineers advising that current conditions pose an unacceptable risk to vessels, crews and passengers.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the safety issues must be resolved before any temporary service can operate.
“The ferry is currently suspended by a single cable and that is placing enormous tension on both the cable and the northern landside infrastructure. Until that area is stabilised, it simply isn’t safe for any other vessel to operate between the two terminals,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“We know how disruptive this is for residents and businesses north of the river but we cannot put people at risk. Safety has to come first.”
Once the site is deemed safe, Council will activate the interim passenger ferry and connecting bus service. The earliest possible start date is Wednesday 11 March but this is yet to be confirmed.
A one‑way Ocean Safari boat transfer from Cape Tribulation to Port Douglas will operate again on Monday 9 March for visitors and residents needing to travel south. Passengers must book directly with Ocean Safari and make their own way to Cape Tribulation Beach.
Mayor Scomazzon said she understands the strain the outage is placing on the community.
“This is a difficult and frustrating situation, and I want to thank everyone for their patience. We will continue to provide clear, timely updates as work progresses,” she said.
