Frankland Islands & Normanby Island Day Tour
Cruise the Mulgrave River to Normanby Island for beach snorkelling, guided activities and a beachside buffet lunch, with Cairns transfers included in this package.
Combine a river journey with an island reef day on this Frankland Islands Reef Cruises trip. From the Deeral departure point south of Cairns, the boat follows the Mulgrave River through rainforest and mangroves before the open-water crossing to Normanby Island.
Several ways to enjoy the island
Snorkel from the beach with equipment and instruction provided, join guided activities or take a semi-submersible tour to see the reef while staying dry. A guided island walk adds a closer look at the island environment, while kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offer another way to enjoy the water.
A beachside buffet lunch and refreshments are included in this full-day package, along with return transfers from selected Cairns locations. Self-drive arrangements are also available; confirm the correct meeting point when booking.
This itinerary suits travellers who want a mix of island and reef activities rather than a boat-only snorkel day. Island time and activity order depend on operating conditions.
- Mulgrave River scenery before the island crossing.
- Beach snorkelling at Normanby Island.
- Included semi-submersible reef viewing.
- Guided island walk and water activities.
- Beachside buffet lunch.
- Return coach transfers between Cairns and Deeral.
- Return boat journey between Deeral and Normanby Island.
- Snorkelling equipment, instruction and Lycra suit.
- Guided snorkelling activities.
- Guided island walk with a marine biologist.
- Guided semi-submersible tour.
- Use of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
- Morning and afternoon tea.
- Cold beachside buffet lunch.
- Lifeguard supervision.
- Cairns coach pickups begin at approximately 6:55 am. Confirm your assigned pickup time when booking.
- Self-drive guests should check in by 8:15 am at the Frankland Islands and Reef Cruise Jetty, 169 Ross Road, Deeral. Parking is available.
- The boat departs from Deeral, which is 44km south of Cairns.
- Follow your booking confirmation for final meeting arrangements and timings. Advise any participation or dietary requirements before travel.