Three for the kids: Port Douglas

Port Douglas. Photo / Tourism and Events Queensland

They'll be wild about the options in Tropical North Queensland, writes Eli Orzessek.

1 Great Barrier Reef tour

A day out on the Great Barrier Reef is a must-do when in Port Douglas. If you're visiting with kids,

Quicksilver Cruises

is a great option. They'll take you out to the Agincourt Reef, on the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to explore this underwater wonderland. They can snorkel to their hearts' content, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a Quicksilver semi-sub, which goes a metre below the surface.

The Wildlife Habitat, Port Douglas. Photo / Tourism and Events Queensland

2 Wildlife Habitat

Meet the locals at

this immersive wildlife experience

on the outskirts of Port Douglas. Kids can cuddle a koala, feed the kangaroos, meet pythons and crocodiles and walk among the birds. The park also offers a number of extra experiences you can book — including a kids' club, a breakfast buffet with the birds, and a night-time tour to see nocturnal animals.

3 Lady Douglas River Cruise

Departing four times a day from the Port Douglas Marina, a leisurely cruise on the

Lady Douglas

is a great way to spot crocodiles in their natural habitat among the mangroves. Although a croc-sighting is not guaranteed, the company claims to spot them on 90 per cent of their trips. Kids get the chance to drive the boat, and are given activity sheets where they can tick off sights along the way. And if your little ones don't like to sit still, there's plenty of space for them to move around the boat.

Great Barrier Reef cruise with Quicksilver Cruises, from Port Douglas. Photo / Tourism and Events Queensland