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)
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
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 - 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
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
Reviews
390 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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.
Excellent day trip. Very...
Cameron K,
Jun 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent day trip. Very well organized. The snorkeling was good, the lunch was fantastic and the nature walk in the afternoon was excellent as well. Also enjoyed the glass bottom boat. Would highly recommend.
Reef Tour with Tweens
Jenny C,
Apr 20, 2025
- Viator
4.00Great reef tour that is not too big of a group, goes to a secluded island that has no other tourists besides tour group and healthier part of reef. Great guides for all levels of snorkeling who are patient in taking folks out to see the coral they may not be strong swimmers or scared. Went for family vacation with my three tweens and husband who all loved the experience. My only complaint is that the lunch was all cold and not warmed up from being on ice. Offers other activity tours like glass bottom tours, snorkeling from farther off island and paddle boarding.
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Operated by Frankland Islands Reef Cruises