Frankland Islands Reef Cruises

Cairns

from $215 AUD

Embark on a unique adventure to the stunning Frankland Islands, a tropical paradise located near Cairns.  Normanby Island in the Frankland Islands Group provides some of the best snorkelling of all the islands near Cairns thanks to its unique geographical location. It rises from sea level, peaking at 20 metres high. It’s a continental island, which is home to rainforest vegetation, as well as coastal species. Cool water channels surround the islands, keeping sea temperatures cooler during the hot summer months.  We encourage you to use the calendar to check online using live availability to book your preferred travel dates.

Island Reef Experience - Cairns

Your Frankland Islands Reef Tour starts as you board our air-conditioned coach from Cairns and travel south through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest, fields of sugar cane and past the iconic Walsh’s Pyramid – the highest freestanding natural pyramid in the world!

Enjoy a calm water river cruise down the Mulgrave River, followed by the shortest open water crossing of any of the Cairns day tours to Normanby Island, the most pristine island off Cairns and a gateway to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

During your Frankland Islands day trip you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a guided snorkel tour and our popular adventure snorkel safari.

These activities are included in the full day tour price. All guests are also free to snorkel at their leisure throughout the day.

Trip Highlights

Fabulous range of optional activities to choose from, including:

Guided snorkel safari with a marine biologist
Semi-submarine tour with commentary
Guided island walk
Kids treasure hunt
Use of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
Delicious beachside buffet lunch

Max – Guests 46 + crew

If you’ve never snorkelled before, don’t worry – the crew will give you all the instruction and briefing you need. Flotation devices are available so you can float along with ease and just enjoy the sights as you explore the reef.

Both snorkel tours are guided by experienced instructors, including our Master Reef Guides. They know where to find all the best marine life, from turtles and fish to giant clams and impressive corals.

Our all-inclusive day tour includes all snorkel equipment, sun protection suits and optional flotation devices.

 

Full Itinerary

Frankland Islands Express Tour

Short on time then this Express Tour is for you.  Enjoy all the magic of Normanby Island and the Great Barrier Reef with core inclusions such as:

  • Time to swim, explore the island, or simply relax on the beach
  • Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for use
  • Choice of one guided activity (semi-sub tour or guided beach snorkelling tour)

Departure Information

  • Complimentary coach transfers from selected Cairns CBD locations commence from 9.00 am
  • If you prefer to self-drive, please allow time for the drive and check in at Deeral by 10.00 am
  • The transfer vessel departs Deeral at 10.15 am and returns approximately 2.30 pm

Please note: Departure and return times may vary with tides. We will notify guests of any schedule changes in advance.

Frankland Islands All-Inclusive Tour

Experience the Best of Cairns: The only River, Rainforest, and Reef Tour

Departure Information

  • Complimentary coach transfers from Cairns CBD locations commence at 7.00 am
  • If you prefer to self-drive, please allow time for the drive and check in at Deeral by 8.15 am
  • The transfer vessel departs Deeral at 8.30 am and returns to Deeral at approximately 4.00 pm

Please note: Departure and return times may vary with tides. We will notify guests of any schedule changes in advance.

All-Inclusive Day Tour

The complete experience with lunch & all activities.

Return transfers from Cairns selected CBD locations
Up to 5.5 hours on the island
Scenic calm water river cruise
Semi-sub tour, Guided beach & adventure snorkel tour
Snorkelling equipment including wetsuits
Full tropical beachside buffet lunch
Guided island and foreshore walk
Kids Snorkel Stars course & treasure hunt
Afternoon refreshments served on the return journey

Optional Extra's

Introductory Diving – But Available at $160 pp
Additional Drinks at the Bar onboard

Pricing Tables

Prices valid until 31st March 2027

Option Cost
Frankland Island Snorkeling Tour - All-Inclusive Day Tour $270.00
Child (4 - 16) $170.00
Frankland Island Express Day Tour + Lunch $215.00
Please note: A fuel recovery surcharge of $20.00 per person, per day applies to all bookings travelling from 1 April 2026 due to increased fuel costs. A secure payment link will be sent by email to the guest and/or text message to request surcharge payment before date of travel

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations within 2 Days of the start date incur a 100.00% fee.

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