07 4082 7470

Frankland Islands Reef Cruise

FROM: $225
100
SingleDay
5.0 (4 Reviews)

Departure Times

Departs: 8:00am - Daily
Returns: 4:00pm - Deeral Jetty | 5-5:30pm - Cairns - Daily

Departure Point: Deeral Jetty, Ross Road, Deeral

Pricing Options

RRP $250 $225 AUD / Person - Adult (Between: 31 Mar 2025 and 31 Mar 2026)
$160 AUD / Person - Child (4 - 16 yrs) (Between: 31 Mar 2025 and 31 Mar 2026)
RRP $205 $165 AUD / Person - Family (2A + 2C) ($660 Total) (Between: 31 Mar 2025 and 31 Mar 2026)
$0 AUD / Person - Infant (0-3yrs) (Between: 01 Apr 2022 and 31 Mar 2026)
$160 AUD / Person - 1 Introductory Dive (Add-On) (Between: 01 Feb 2025 and 31 Mar 2026)

Cruise from the river to the reef on an exclusive escape to the pristine Frankland Islands!

  • Scenic cruise through the Mulgrave River to the Frankland Islands
  • Explore the secluded Normanby Island within the Great Barrier Reef
  • Guided snorkel safari, SUP and kayak amongst flourishing fringing reefs
  • Enjoy up to 5 hours of unparalleled island time! 

From the rainforests surrounding the Mulgrave River to the fringing corals of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a Frankland Islands Reef Cruise is an exclusive day tour filled with ample island time! Enjoy a scenic cruise through the mangroves of the Mulgrave River before reaching the sandy shoreline of Normanby Island. Snorkel amongst sprawling inner reefs, join a semi-sub tour, snorkel safari or guided nature walk. With island activities for all ages, a day filled with fun and adventure is guaranteed!

Frankland Islands Reef Cruise, Cairns Tours

Highlights

  • Great Barrier Reef day tour with exclusive access to the Frankland Islands
  • Up to 5 hours to relax and explore Normanby Island
  • 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
  • Island and foreshore walk guided by an experienced marine biologist
  • Guided snorkel safari amongst inner fringing reefs
  • Kids snorkelling tutorial and certificate, and island treasure hunt
  • Snorkelling equipment and tuition included
  • Use of kayaks and paddleboards
  • View the reef on a semi-submarine expedition
  • Fresh tropical lunch provided (dietary requirements to be advised when booking)
  • Morning and afternoon tea included
  • Comfortable, air-conditioned vessel with full amenities
  • Return transfers to and from your accommodation in Cairns to Deeral Jetty

Soak up the sun and sites at one of the Great Barrier Reef’s best-hidden tropical islands!

sea turtle swimming in the great barrier reef near cairns

Sample Itinerary

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As the only Great Barrier Reef tour permitted to visit Normanby Island, a Frankland Islands Reef Cruise boasts an itinerary brimming with island adventure and plenty of time in the water! Including return transfers to and from your accommodation in Cairns to Deeral Jetty, a seamless island escape is awaiting!  

Scenic cruise 

Begin your Frankland Islands adventure by cruising calmly down the Mu...

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More Information

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What To Bring

  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Shoes that can get wet and sandy
  • Refillable water bottle 
  • Cash or credit card (Visa / Mastercard)

What's Included

  • Return transfers to and from your accommodation in Cairns to Deeral Jetty
  • Morning and afternoon tea
  • 30-minute water cruise along the Mulgrave River
  • Guided snorkel safari, equipment, and tuition
  • Semi-submersible boat tour
  • Snorkel Stars – kids snorkelling tutorial ...

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Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the coach transfers pick up from my accommodation?

Coach pick up times will vary depending on the day. Please advise us where you will be staying, and we can advise you the pick up time from your accommodation.

I have my own car, can I just drive to the Deeral boat ramp instead of taking the coach transfers?

Yes you can! There is plenty of free parking, just make sure you are there to check in at 8:15 am for an 8:30 am departure.

What time do we get back to Cairns?

The boat gets back to Deeral around 3:30 - 4:00 pm where the coach will be waiting to bring you back to Cairns around 5:00 pm. Depending on the order of drop offs, the time you get back to your accommodation can vary.

How many hours do we spend on the island?

You get between 4 and 4.5 hours to explore Normanby Island with plenty to see and do!

Can I go scuba diving on this trip?

Scuba diving is subject to availability and minimum numbers apply. Please contact us for more information.

Are special dietary requirements catered for?

Yes, the crew can arrange special meals for most dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking and they will do their best to accommodate you.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! During your day on the island, young children can easily swim or snorkel from the beach. The crew provide flotation devices and the snorkel guides are happy to help with equipment and tuition. The guided island walk and kids' treasure hunt are also great fun for children. You are welcome to take a portable pram, but please note there are no paved paths. So you will need to carry or push them on the sand. The shaded picnic area is a lovely spot for a nap for the little ones.

What about the elderly or people with mobility issues?

As there are no paved walkways on the island, you will need to be able to walk up to 100 metres on sand and navigate stairs on board the vessel. Unfortunately this tour is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs.

Are there toilets on the Island?

No, there are no toilets on the island. However the crew runs direct shuttles back to the main boat for any bathroom breaks required.

I’m not a very good swimmer. If I choose not to swim or snorkel, what else is there to do?

If you’re not a confident swimmer, the crew can provide a range of flotation devices including life jackets and pool noodles. The snorkel guides will also assist you. Should you decide not to snorkel, you can do the semi-submersible boat tour and the guided island walk. The island is also a lovely place to relax on your very own crowd-free white sandy beach with a good book!

Reviews

Overall Rating

5.0 / 5.0

Based on 4 reviews

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Reviews by our Cairns Tours customers

Grace Oliver, 01 Apr 23
Amazing day! Could not recommend the snorkel safari more. We saw a manta ray, turtles, reef shark and nemo! There is so much to do on the island or you can just chill, which is perfect.
Jess Munro, 31 Mar 23
If you're wanting an alternative to Green and Fitzroy Islands, then this is the way to go! There is so much to do at Frankland Islands! On the included guided snorkel tour we saw a sleeping turtle, reef shark, ramora fish and a Manta Ray! Semi-sub was cool too. Snorkeling off the beach is amazing with vibrant corals and marine life! You have the option to do as little or as much as you like! definitely recommend for an ultimate GBR experience!
Thompson, 03 Jan 23
What a beautiful day! We were told that Frankland islands are a hidden gem, and it is certainly true. Great staff, beautiful reef. My daughter was so excited to see turtles.Thanks for the recommendation.
Ashleah Holliday, 28 Nov 22
Great day out! The staff were great and were very informative. The day began with a river cruise with complimentary tea/ coffee and biscuits. Once we arrived at Normanby Island the weather was perfect, great visibility and stunning scenery. We took part in the snorkel safari, semi-sub, paddle boarding and kayaking which was all included. We saw 3 sea turtles and learnt more about the island and the reef which was very insightful. The day ran from 8-4 and included transfers. Amazing day, would not hesitate to go again and will definitely recommend!
Lou
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