Express Day Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef

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6 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

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 express 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.

What's Included

Spacious and comfortable boat
Semi-Sub tour with commentary (alternative to beach-to-reef snorkel tour)
Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards
Afternoon snacks and fresh water throughout the day
Return transfers from 3 selected Cairns locations, subject to availability.
Lycra Suits (seasonal)
Guided Snorkel Beach to Reef tour (alternative to Semi-Sub tour)
Introductory Diving
Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
Lunch is not included. Optional purchase of Lunch box - must be prebooked

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Frankland Islands will send you a booking confirmation with your pickup time. Please be sure to check this carefully.

If you haven't specified a pick-up location yet please advise Frankland Islands of your Cairns hotel/location pick up location by contacting us on 07 4046 7333.

OR
Meeting point

If you are making your own way to the boat, please meet us at 10.00am for an 10.15am departure from Deeral Jetty - 169 Ross Rd, Deeral QLD 4871, Australia. Please note the Deeral Jetty is 40 minutes south of Cairns.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Great Barrier Reef

    The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometres along Australia’s northeast coast. It’s home to thousands of marine species and vibrant coral formations, offering some of the most spectacular diving and snorkelling experiences on Earth.

    5 hours • Admission ticket free
  • Walshs Pyramid (Pass by)

    Walshs Pyramid, situated at the northern end of the Wooroonooran National Park, glance at the highest free-standing natural pyramid in the world on your way to Deeral

    Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Drive through Deeral, on your way to Deeral Jetty for the Frankland Island Reef Cruises departure location

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Travellers booking the Express Day Tour depart from Cairns or can self-drive to Deeral, leaving around 10:15 am and returning about 2:30 pm. The journey begins with a cruise down the Mulgrave River aboard the Wantaim vessel, where passengers can view wildlife along the mangrove-lined banks, including crocodiles. From the river mouth, the tour continues about ten kilometres out to Normanby Island in the Frankland Islands. Once there, guests can snorkel straight off the beach with provided equipment, exploring coral gardens and marine life under the supervision of experienced guides. They can also choose between a guided snorkelling tour or a semi-submarine reef tour, both offering a closer look at the reef ecosystem. Free use of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards is included, allowing guests to explore the surrounding waters at their leisure. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim, or enjoy an optional packed picnic lunch, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

    Admission ticket free

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.
  • 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
Supplied by Frankland Islands Reef Cruises

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Tags

Snorkeling
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Self-guided Tours
Walking Tours
Kayaking Tours
Fun & Games
On the Water
Scavenger Hunts
Swimming
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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