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Sightseeing Cruises

Cairns to Frankland Islands Reef Cruise with Snorkeling & Lunch

Woman snorkeling over vibrant coral reef, Frankland Islands, Australia.
Family snorkeling at Frankland Islands, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Couple dining on Frankland Islands beach with ocean view in Australia.
Couple walking along the sandy beach of Frankland Islands, Australia, with clear blue waters in the background.

Escape to Normanby Island for a full day of reef exploration from Cairns, snorkeling, semi-submarine tours, and guided island walks in a secluded, exclusive location.

Highlights

  • Discover the Great Barrier Reef through snorkeling, semi-submarine tours, and island walks at the Frankland Islands.

  • Explore vibrant coral gardens, spot turtles and clownfish, and uncover hidden treasures like giant clams and rare mangroves on this adventure.

  • Your cruise will take you from Cairns to Normanby Island, far from crowded reefs, with lunch and activities included.

  • From kayaking and paddleboarding to treasure hunts for kids, this tour caters to all ages with a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

  • Fun fact: Normanby Island’s fringing reefs host some of the oldest living corals on Earth, with formations that may have started growing over 5,000 years ago!

Inclusions

  • Full-day cruise to Great Barrier Reef and Frankland Islands

  • Round-trip hotel transfers from select Cairns locations to Deeral Jetty

  • English-speaking guide

  • Up to 4 hours to spend on Frankland Islands

  • Snorkeling equipment, instructions, and lycra suits

  • Kayaks and paddlers

  • Life jackets and pool noodles

  • Beachside buffet lunch

  • Morning and afternoon tea

  • Water

Activities include:

  • 30-minute Mulgrave River cruise

  • Guided snorkel safari

  • Snorkel Stars kids snorkeling tutorial with certificate

  • Guided walk on Normanby Island and foreshore

  • Semi-submersible tour

  • Kids' treasure hunt activity

  • Unlimited beach snorkeling

  • Kayaking

  • Paddleboarding

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Escape, explore, enjoy

Imagine a day when you escape the crowds, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, and explore a hidden gem—Normanby Island. This isn’t your ordinary reef tour; it’s a tailored adventure designed to bring you closer to nature while making every moment count.

Reef magic, above and below

Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, colorful fish, and majestic sea turtles. Whether you’re a pro or a first-timer, the crystal-clear waters make it easy to connect with the underwater world. Dive into the reef’s secrets without getting wet on a semi-submarine ride or paddle the turquoise waters on a kayak or SUP.

Island bliss

Stroll through Normanby Island’s lush trails with a marine biologist and uncover the unique plants, birds, and rock pools teeming with life. Feeling peckish? Your day includes a beachside buffet lunch—think fresh prawns, tropical fruits, and a spread of hearty dishes that will fuel your island explorations.

Want more fun? Kids can hunt for treasure or earn their “Snorkel Star” badge, while adults can unwind, knowing the crew’s expert guidance has every detail covered.

Why it's perfect for you

Whether you're an adventurer, a family looking for fun, or just someone who loves the idea of spending a day on a pristine tropical island, this tour is your dream come true. With activities for every age and skill level, everyone gets to dive into the Great Barrier Reef their way.

What to bring

  • Bring along your sunscreen, swimmers, towel, change of clothes, refillable drink bottle, and cash or credit card for bar and souvenir purchases.

  • Wear waterproof shoes, comfortable for walking on the sandy beaches.

What's not allowed

  • Fishing and commercial drone usage are not permitted during this experience.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.

  • There are no paved walkways on the island. The island has sandy terrain requiring guests to walk up to 100 meters and navigate vessel stairs.

  • Strollers must be carried/pushed through the sand; a shaded picnic area is available for children's rest.

Additional information

  • Snorkeling is physically demanding. Guests must disclose medical conditions to the crew, complete a medical declaration, and wear flotation devices when required.

  • Extreme low tides may affect tour timing or result in cancellation. Guests will be notified of any changes during booking or as soon as possible. While departure may be delayed, tour duration remains unchanged. The earliest departure time is 8:30am.

  • Special meals for dietary requirements can be arranged when indicated at the time of booking.

  • Tours may be canceled due to unsafe weather conditions. Guests will be notified in advance and offered rebooking or a full refund.

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

  • Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

  • Customers have an option to either opt for hotel transfers or choose to reach the meeting point on their own.

Hotel Transfers

  • This ticket includes hotel pickups and drop-offs.

  • In the next step of booking, please specify the name and address of your hotel.

  • On the day of your tour, please report at your hotel lobby 10-15 min prior to your scheduled departure.

  • If your hotel does not have a lobby, please wait at the entrance of the hotel.

Meeting Point (If not Opted for Hotel Pickup)

  • Meet your guide at Deeral Boat Ramp.

  • Address: 169 Ross Rd, Deeral QLD 4871, Australia.

Get Directions to the Meeting Point

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