All Inclusive Day Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
Frankland Islands Reef Cruises are the only commercial operator allowed to land on stunning Normanby Island, offering ample space and time for relaxation and exploration. Customise your day trip with a variety of optional activities on our all-inclusive tour.
The islands are also home to several endangered species like the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, spectacled flying-fox, and beach stone-curlews. Explore the vibrant underwater world with 200 coral species around Normanby and Mabel islands, part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park's total of 600 species.
On Frankland Islands, stars aren't just in the sky—they're beneath your feet! Baclogypsina sphirulata, known as Sand Stars found on Normanby Island, are typically rare and found on beaches across the Indo-Pacific. They're often considered unique to Okinawa, Japan, but it's our hidden delight that you can also discover them in a secluded spot on Normanby Island.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All guests are required to wear lycra suits that are provided during stinger season
All guests are required to complete a snorkelling safety acknowledgement prior to entering the water.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise of any dietary requirements at time of booking
Please note that there are no paved walkways. Prams must be carried or pushed in the sand.
Please note that if the bus transfers are fully booked, you will need to make your own way to Deeral to board the boat
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Spacious and comfortable boat
Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
Guided Island Walk
Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards
Morning & Afternoon Tea and fresh water throughout the day
Fresh Tropical Buffet Lunch
Return transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodation, subject to availability.
Guided Snorkel Safari Tour
Lycra Suits (seasonal)
Introductory Diving
Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
What To Expect
Explore the pristine Frankland Group National Park, part of the Great Barrier Reef, featuring five uninhabited islands—Normanby, High, Russell, Round, and Mabel, surrounded by vibrant fringing reefs. Dive into a world of diverse marine life including 200 coral species found around Normanby and Mabel islands. Your journey begins with a scenic coach ride from Cairns, followed by a tranquil river cruise down the Mulgrave River. Enjoy the shortest open water crossing of any of the Cairns day tours to Normanby Island, where Frankland Islands Reef Cruises offers exclusive access, being the only commercial operator licensed to land on Normanby Island. Experience a snorkel safari with our knowledgeable crew, a semi-submarine tour with commentary, guided island walk, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and a beachside buffet lunch. Relax on your return journey aboard the Turtle Islander, arriving in Cairns by late afternoon, filled with memories of your unforgettable Frankland Islands adventure.
Options
Day Tour- Inc Cairns Pick Up
Activities: Snorkel Safari, Semi-Submarine Tour, Island Walk, Kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards and Snorkel Equipment
Food & Drinks: Morning & Afternoon Tea as well as a Fresh Tropical Buffet Lunch are provided. Water is available throughout the day too.
Pickup included
Day Tour - Self Drive
Activities: Snorkel Safari, Semi-Submarine Tour, Island Walk, Kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards and Snorkel Equipment
Food & Drinks: Morning & Afternoon Tea as well as a Fresh Tropical Buffet Lunch are provided. Water is available throughout the day too.
Meet at Vessel - Deeral: 169 Ross Road, Deeral - meet the vessel at the Jetty
Reviews
395 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
An unforgettable way to experience the Great Barrier Reef!
Avelino J,
Sep 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00The Frankland Islands Reef tour offered a very unique and memorable way to explore the Great Barrier Reef, far beyond just sitting on a boat all day like other island tours. After a nice scenic cruise, you are dropped off at Normanby Island where the real adventure begins. From a guided snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tour, to paddle boarding and a personal guided island walk, there is something for everyone. One of the tour highlights is the small group size, which makes the experience of the tour feel very intimate—almost like you have your own private island! The buffet lunch was so delicious that it was truly better than most meals we ate during our entire Australian trip! It was just what we needed after a morning full of swimming and exploring. The entire staff were fantastic. They were all so friendly, knowledgeable, and they assured to empathize and prioritize safety at all times. The captain as well was far beyond just a title. He went out of his way the entire tour to make sure that everyone who participated on the tour left with an unforgettable experience. We absolutely had an incredible time with the Frankland Islands team. We highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to see the Great Barrier Reef in a more personal and memorable way!
A great way to see the...
Michelle P,
Aug 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00A great way to see the reef in an eco friendly environment. Small group of 45, family friendly with marine biologists. From the beach area saw lots of fish, rays, turtle and clown fish. Guided tour of island saw us explore the rock pools.
Great day out.
Sarah K,
Jul 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00Lovely day out. Crew were super friendly and provided wetsuits for snorkelling. The island was beautiful and our group were the only ones on it. Highly recommend.
A great time, with a friendly crew!
Jeremy M,
Jul 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00A really great experience on the islands! The crew was friendly, and tried so hard to make sure everyone had a good time - really going above and beyond to help some of the other guests and their annoying children. The island time was calm and wonderful. The water was a little murkier on our day, but there were so many colorful fish to see! We spend over 2-hours snorkeling, and did a lovely walk around the beach areas. The lunch was also better than expected. It was a good day, and we'd go again.
Something for everyone
Nolan K,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a really great family experience, with something for everyone. We were fortunate to also have the opportunity to spot crocodiles and humpback whales all in the one tour. The guided walking tour and snorkelling safari (included in the price) were well worth it.
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