Vessels have been evacuated from the Port Douglas marina as far north Queensland residents prepare for a category five cyclone. 

FNQ prepares as massive cyclone approaches coast

Douglas residents prepare for Tropical Cyclone Ita

More than 80 vessels left the marina as part of the extreme weather event contingency plan for the region. 

Tropical Cyclone Ita is expected to cross the far north Queensland coast later today. 

The majority of boats have docked in the creeks and waterways off Dickson Inlet, within the mangrove areas. 

Marina manager Rob Cruz said the inlet offered the best nearby shelter and protection for smaller vessels in the region. 

"Owners started clearing out at six o'clock Thursday morning," Mr Cruz said. 

"A handful of vessels are set to leave early Friday morning but we're basically empty now." 

Mr Cruz said he was impressed how quickly and efficiently the marina was cleared. 

"There was a lot of pitching in and camaraderie," he said. 

"It's an unfortunate thing to have to do but we understand that's the best thing to do under the circumstances."

Mr Cruz said he didn't know when the marina would re-open.

"It depends on the storm track and the harbour master's interpretation of the storm track," he said. 

The Port Douglas marina currently isn't a cyclone rated marina.