Frankland Islands Reef, Rainforest & River Day Tour from Cairns
This fully inclusive tour is an exciting day out in paradise, & includes a river cruise, a secluded Frankland Islands escape with snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, a guided island walk, plus morning tea lunch & afternoon tea.
Frankland Islands Reef, Rainforest & River Day Tour from Cairns Highlights
- Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us!
- 30 min calm water cruise down the Mulgrave River
- 4 hrs at Normanby Island in the Frankland Islands archipelago, a natural wildlife haven & a protected national park
- Use of all snorkelling equipment to explore the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef
- Guided snorkelling tour from the beach, plus a snorkelling safari from the boat along the western reefs
- Use of other watersport equipment including stand-up paddleboards & kayaks
- Guided island walk with a marine biologist & Master Reef Guide to learn more about the pristine Frankland Islands
- A delicious morning tea, buffet lunch, & afternoon tea
- Return coach transfers from Cairns CBD accommodation
Where we Visit:
- Mulgrave River
- Frankland Islands
- Normanby Island
- Great Barrier Reef
Why Do We Love This
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the tides affect the timing of the tour?
Do the tides affect the timing of the tour?
Yes, they can. Extreme low tides may vary the times of the tour or cause it to be cancelled. We will advise guests at the time of booking or as soon as possible afterwards if this is the case. The tour duration stays the same, we just depart later and return later. We will not depart earlier than our usual time of 8:30 am.
How long do I get to spend on the Great Barrier Reef?
How long do I get to spend on the Great Barrier Reef?
Between 4 and 4.5 hours.
What is the general day plan? Can I choose activities when I am out there?
What is the general day plan? Can I choose activities when I am out there?
After departure, we serve morning tea on board the Turtle Islander. The timing of the day depends on guest numbers and pre-booked optional activities. The crew will provide an outline of the timing for the day before arriving at the island. There is also a chalkboard at the picnic area with the information for guests to refer to, and if you need more information or advice throughout the day, you can ask any of our friendly crew!
I have certain foods I cannot eat or choose not to eat, am I catered for?
I have certain foods I cannot eat or choose not to eat, am I catered for?
Yes, we can arrange special meals for most dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Do I need a protection suit for stingers and what is the cost?
Do I need a protection suit for stingers and what is the cost?
We provide lycra suits free of charge from November to April. During this time, they are compulsory for all our guests to wear them.
Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
Yes! During our day on the island young children can easily swim or snorkel from the beach. We provide flotation devices and our snorkel guides are happy to help with equipment and tuition. The guided island walk and our kids' treasure hunt are also great fun for children.
Guests are welcome to bring portable prams, but please note there is no paved walk so they will need to carry or push them on the sand. The shaded picnic area is a lovely spot for a nap for the little ones.
Is this tour suitable for elderly people or people with mobility issues?
Is this tour suitable for elderly people or people with mobility issues?
As there are no paved walkways on the island, guests need to be able to walk up to 100 metres on sand and navigate stairs on board the vessel. Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs.
Are there toilets on the island?
Are there toilets on the island?
There are no toilets on the island, but we run direct shuttles back to the main vessel for any toilet breaks required.
Does the tour go ahead if it is raining?
Does the tour go ahead if it is raining?
Yes, we will still visit the Great Barrier Reef if it is raining! Please be aware there is limited shelter on the island. We recommend bringing a light waterproof jacket.
What if I get sea sick? Is this a suitable tour for me?
What if I get sea sick? Is this a suitable tour for me?
Yes, our tour is more suitable than many other Great Barrier Reef tours for guests who may get seasick, as we have a calm water river cruise and the shortest crossing to the Great Barrier Reef of just 10 kilometres (approximately 30 minutes). Once we arrive at our destination, we base ourselves on the island, which does not move, and you can recover quickly and enjoy your Great Barrier Reef experience. If you are still concerned, we recommend you take seasickness medication.
Can I bring my fishing gear?
Can I bring my fishing gear?
Sorry, fishing is not permitted on this tour.
Reviews for Frankland Islands Reef, Rainforest & River Day Tour from Cairns
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A Refundable Booking is available at checkout. This will provide 100% refund for one of the many reasons included via our terms - including adverse weather, sickness or delays with transport.
All customer cancellation & refund requests are also subject to our website’s own refund conditions.
Pickup Locations
- 08:15 - 00 Make own way to Deeral Boat Jetty Landing @ 8:15 AM
- 08:15 - 00 Make own way to Deeral Boat Ramp. Check in @ 8:15 AM
- 08:15 - 00 Make own way to Deeral Boat Ramp. Check in @ 8:15 AM
- 08:15 - 00 To be advised at a later time @ 6:55 AM
- 08:15 - 181 ESPLANADE @ 7:10 AM