Frankland Islands: Reef and Wildlife Adventure

Discover rare Sand Stars and endangered species on a full-day Frankland Islands cruise. Explore vibrant coral reefs and relax on secluded Normanby Island.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Frankland Islands - Discover the untouched beauty of Frankland Group National Park, a part of the Great Barrier Reef, which includes five uninhabited islands: Normanby, High, Russell, Round, and Mabel, all encircled by vibrant fringing reefs. Immerse yourself in a diverse marine ecosystem with 200 coral species around Normanby and Mabel islands….
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
  • Lunch
  • Return transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodation, subject to availability.
  • Guided Snorkel Safari Tour
  • Lycra Suits (seasonal)
What's Not Included
  • Introductory Diving
  • Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
Additional Information

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is the sole commercial operator permitted to land on the breathtaking Normanby Island, providing plenty of space and time for relaxation and exploration. Personalize your day trip with a range of optional activities on our all-inclusive tour.
The islands are also home to several endangered species, including the green…

Location
169 Ross Rd
Ross Road
If you are making your own way to the boat, please meet us at 8.15am for an 8.30am departure from Deeral Jetty - 169 Ross Rd, Deeral QLD 4871, Australia. Please note the Deeral Jetty is 40 minutes south of Cairns.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(391 Ratings)
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Michelle_p
Aug 21, 2025
A great way to see the... - A 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.
Review provided by Viator
Connector40114651443
Aug 13, 2025
day trip with friends - Even though the weather wasn't perfect, My friends and I had a very good experience during our trip, everything was very well planned, the food was amazing and the activities were great. The team went above and beyond to make sure that everyone enjoy the day, special mention to Selene who took me for a nice time in the water, she helped me a lot in my first time doing snorkeling being a nervous swimmer, she was very attentive and helpful. Congratulations to everyone!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Louh62
Aug 9, 2025
Best reef tour - One of the best reef experiences in North Queensland. Great crew, small groups and a relaxing way to enjoy the reef. Very knowledgeable guides and a joy to be able to relax on a lovely island rather than being stuck on a tour boat. The tour catered for all ages and groups and should be a must do for any trip to the Barrier Reef.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bryanb957
Aug 3, 2025
Magical Day Trip - This was a magical experience - after a river cruise to the ocean you get to spend ALL DAY on this beautiful island. We kayaked and saw a sea turtle, went on the snorkel safari and saw all kinds of beautiful marine life and coral, and the guided nature walk around the island was breathtakingly beautiful and informative. The staff were all great and friendly too. Incredible experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Florance03
Jul 31, 2025
Fabulous day - We did this trip with my four year old granddaughter and we all had a fabulous day. We were pick up promptly by coach, taken to the boat and then out to the island. The staff were really friendly, very knowledgeable and helpful, we were provided with everything we needed including wet suits. We went in a glass bottom boat, snorkelling from the beach and snorkelling from a boat with a trained diver, we had the use of kayaks and paddle boards and had the island to ourselves ( just our boat) which greatly increased our chances of seeing sharks (reef) turtles and multiple fish which we did see even close in! The food was great and plentiful and water and sunscreen were provided We ended the trip with a nature walk around the island with a very knowledgeable guild I would highly recommend this trip my granddaughter loved it and the staff were very good with her and went out of their way to make her day special- this trip is away from the crowds and back to nature, fabulous 🥰
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sarah_k
Jul 22, 2025
Great day out. - Lovely 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.
Review provided by Viator
Carolync539
Jul 21, 2025
Excellent experience - This tour was excellent from beginning to end. From the hotel pick up to our return everyone was knowledgeable friendly and wanted to ensure our safety. One of the reasons we chose the tour was because I’m a poor swimmer and didn’t want to snorkel whereas my partner did. There was still plenty for me to do with the semi submersible, excellent island tour and whale and turtle sightings from the shore as well as swimming in the sea close to the island. My partner enjoyed the snorkelling and lunch was excellent. We’d both highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jeremy_m
Jul 10, 2025
A great time, with a friendly crew! - A 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.
Review provided by Viator
147kayep
Jul 9, 2025
Fabulous - This was the best day ever. Blessed with beautiful weather, we were collected on time and transported to the boat. The whole day was so well organised by the super friendly and experienced staff of 6. Free snorkelling, glass bottom boat, and a snorkelling safari for more capable swimmers were offered before lunch. We saw an amazing array of marine life including a rather large Hawksbill turtle and rays. All of the staff were very knowledgeable. After a sumptuous tropical lunch a treasure hunt ensued for younger adventurers and a guided walk around the island by a marine expert ensured everyone was catered for. I have gone on 2 other outer reef tours but they pale into comparison with the Frankland island tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nolan_k
Jul 8, 2025
Something for everyone - This 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.
Review provided by Viator
From $163
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).