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Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Day Trip from Cairns

Queensland, Australia
  • 6 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
  • Pickup offered
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

Go where few travelers can, as you enjoy exclusive access to scenic Normanby Island—part of the Frankland Islands and usually off-limits to visitors. Hop overboard to snorkel the waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, keeping lookout for endangered green and hawksbill turtles, as well as a variety of native marine life. Back onboard, refuel with snacks and take in the sights as you cruise the Mulgrave River.
  • Handy round-trip transfers from three locations in Cairns are included
  • Explore the water your way with snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP equipment
  • Snorkel without crowds as you head to secluded, limited-access spots
  • Get the inside scoop on the area's marine life with insights from your local crew

What's Included

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

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

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

  • 169 Ross Rd, Deeral QLD 4871, Australia

    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.

Arranged start time

Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
Select your preferred tour option to see hours.
View tour option

Itinerary

1

Great Barrier Reef

5 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Walshs Pyramid (Pass By)

2

Deeral

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

3

Frankland Islands

Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Stroller accessible
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Most travelers can participate
  • 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
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Please advise of any dietary requirements at time of booking
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 92 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Reviews

5.0
based on 4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Beautiful

Taylor_H, Aug 2026
Absolutely incredible experience. Both crabby and Ivan were excellent hosts. Very friendly and knowledgeable. What a beautiful day out, even saw a turtle. Recommend the semi sub reef tour. Magnificent.

Response from Host, Aug 2026

Hi Taylor, Thank you for your kind words! We’re so pleased to hear that both Crabby and Ivan left such lasting impressions and how wonderful that you were able to spot a turtle as well! Many Thanks, Madeline and the Frankland Islands Reef Cruises Team

Frankland Island your is a must!

Pam_O, Apr 2026
Very personable and thoroughly enjoyable. We loved the small group setting and less touristy feel. The Frankland Islands were stunning and unspoiled. The reef was gorgeous and easy to access and enjoy. Loved having the freedom to come and go from snorkeling to activities on the island at your own pace. Briley was an exceptional guide. Very friendly and approachable. She definitely made our day even more enjoyable.

Highly recommend

Charlene_W, Feb 2026
Amazing staff, friendly helpful, and just there for you. We did the semi sub which had great i formation and the free snorkeled. But even doing the free snorkel the guides took us out and showed us the corral and fish. They were awesome.
Member Pricing
From

$108.58

per person
Was $114.29(-5%)

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 105 days in advance.

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