Full-Day Cruise Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef
Overview
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.
What's Included
- Lunch Fresh Tropical Buffet Lunch
- Spacious and comfortable boat
- Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
- Morning & Afternoon Tea and fresh water throughout the day
- Return transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodation, subject to availability.
- Lycra Suits (seasonal)
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards
- Guided Snorkel Safari Tour
- Guided Island Walk
- Introductory Diving
- Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
Meeting and Pickup
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/hostel pick up location by contacting us on 07 4046 7333.
Ross Road
Deeral QLD 4871, Australia
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
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.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(15)Q: Are there any weight restrictions for kayaking?
A: The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg. Read more Nov 2021
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.80 out of 5 stars based on 351 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (15)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
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The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg.
Nov 2021Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All City Boat Tours snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on City Boat Tours tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.
The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.
Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.
Sep 2022First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021Your safety is City Boat Tours‘s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.
Jan 2023There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Lunch. Fresh Tropical Buffet Lunch.
- Spacious and comfortable boat.
- Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River.
- Morning & Afternoon Tea and fresh water throughout the day.
- Return transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodation, subject to availability.
- Lycra Suits (seasonal).
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards.
- Guided Snorkel Safari Tour.
- Guided Island Walk.
- Introductory Diving.
- Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase).
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Full-Day Cruise Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef is as follows:
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Full-Day Cruise Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- LunchFresh Tropical Buffet Lunch
- Spacious and comfortable boat
- Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
- Morning & Afternoon Tea and fresh water throughout the day
- Return transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodation, subject to availability.
- Lycra Suits (seasonal)
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards
- Guided Snorkel Safari Tour
- Guided Island Walk
- Introductory Diving
- Varied drinks including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
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