Frankland Islands Reef Cruise
Departs daily 7am – 5pm
Fuel Levy of $10.00 per person payable direct
Enjoy an all-inclusive River, Reef, and Island Cruise with the sole commercial operator permitted on the pristine uninhabited Frankland Islands. Snorkel off the Island’s National Park white sand beach, swim with sea turtles, and have a quick and convenient journey with the shortest open water crossing. Semi submersible not available until 11th May due to maintenance
The only Cairns reef, rainforest and river experience. Explore and enjoy this natural paradise, no big crowds, full of marine life. Enjoy the opportunity to have this hidden gem all to yourself! Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is an exclusive Cairns Great Barrier Reef day tour. It starts with a rainforest river cruise, followed by the shortest open water crossing of any of the Cairns day tour boats, to put you right on the Great Barrier Reef.
Our destination is Normanby Island in the beautiful Frankland Islands National Park island group. Surrounded by vibrant fringing reefs, it’s home to many species of marine life, including turtles, octopuses and the ever-popular anemone clownfish, Nemo, to name a few. You have up to 4 hours to explore and enjoy this natural paradise, above and below the water.
If you’ve never snorkelled before, don’t worry – our crew will give you all the instruction and briefing you need. Flotation devices are available so you can float along with ease and enjoy the sights as you explore the reef. Experienced instructors, including our Master Reef Guides, guide both snorkel tours. They know where to find all the best marine life, from turtles and fish to giant clams and impressive corals.
Want to stay dry?, you can view the Great Barrier Reef on the Semi-Submersible coral viewing tour. You will be amazed at what you will see. Discover the pristine coral reefs without getting wet from the comfort of our semi-submarine. Take a guided tour of the reefs surrounding the islands and learn about the incredible ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef. Get up close and personal with fish, turtles and the diverse range of corals.
What makes Frankland Island so UNIQUE on the Great Barrier Reef
The Frankland Islands feature cool-water channels and surrounding currents that help regulate sea temperatures, particularly during hot summer months, providing vital relief for coral and keeping reefs healthy. These, likely influenced by tidal movements and deeper water influxes, contribute to a more resilient, diverse, and cooler marine environment than nearby areas.
Key Details on Frankland Islands Water Conditions
- Natural Cooling System: The surrounding waters act as a refuge, with channels that keep water temperatures lower.
- Strong Currents: The islands are situated in a region with strong currents that bring in nutrients, supporting high coral diversity.
- Refuge from Heatwaves: These currents help mitigate the impacts of marine heatwaves, protecting the reefs from severe bleaching, a phenomenon similar to findings on how deep-water influxes cool other parts of the Great Barrier Reef.
- Water Temperature: During summer, these waters can provide a “cold bath” effect for the fringing reefs, ensuring, as noted by Frankland Islands Reef Cruises and Australian Geographic, that the ecosystem remains healthier compared to more sheltered, warmer locations.
Inclusions
- Your day includes return coach transfers from Cairns CBD accommodation
- (Self drive option available) same price
- Luxurious air-conditioned boat
- Guided snorkel safari tour
- Guided island walk with kid’s treasure hunt
- Buffet lunch
- Semi Submersible tour
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
- Protection suits (seasonal)
- Flotation devices
Optional extras & Important Information
Fuel Levy of $10.00 per person is payable direct on the day of travel
Introductory diving $160 – Maximum 6 spaces only per day
PLEASE READ dive medical before booking any dives. This will be required to be completed on the day of travel.
Based on demand, we may run a second transfer to and from Normanby Island if required.
Does the new vessel have a bathroom onboard? – Yes, the new vessel does have one toilet onboard, but to better serve our guests, there is an environment Eco toilet on the island as well for convenience.
What to bring
- Swimmers
- Towel
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Reefsmart sunscreen
- Camera
- Water bottle (you are able to refill on board)
- Change of clothes
- Extra cash or credit card for onboard purchases
Explore related tours
Adult $145|Child$80|Family $390
Gold class option 9.30 train only $60 per person
Train departs Cairns 8.30am or 9.30am
Return Skyrail 2.30pm or 3.30pm
Tour not bookable online – please contact us P: 07 40283567
Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Cairns Central or Freshwater Station, choose from 8:30 am or 9:30 am trains (Gold Class upgrade available). Explore the Kuranda markets Wednesday through to Sunday and the many attractions of Kuranda, then return on the Skyrail as you guide over the rainforest canopy. Includes return transfers from Skyrail to Cairns Railway Station.
Adult $155.50 | Child $85.00 | Family 2A+2C 4-14yrs $399.00 | Gold class option 9.30 train only $60.00 per person
Adult $240 |Child 4-14 yrs $142
Departs Mon to Sat 9am – 6pm
Green Island and Cairns City Sights Tour is an exciting day tour that takes you on a journey to explore the natural beauty and cultural highlights of two unique destinations. Morning begins with a visit to the beautiful Green Island, where you have the opportunity to snorkel or do a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Return to Cairns where you’ll explore the sights and sounds of this vibrant tropical city.
Adult $240.00 | Child 4-14 yrs $142.00
Adult from $239 Child (7-14yrs) $215 not suitable for under 7yrs
Depart daily from Port Douglas only at 7.30am – 4.30pm
Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest in style. Enjoy guided interpretive walks, a gourmet lunch and a wildlife cruise on Cooper Creek to spot crocodiles and birdlife. Friendly local guides who will share the stories, culture and ecology that make this World Heritage-listed rainforest so extraordinary.
This unique Daintree Rainforest experience will have you discovering Mossman Gorge in depth. Start the day with a secret location to commence your ‘River drift’ tour,. Enjoy lunch and a traditional smoking ceremony ending the day with a 1.5 hour guided rainforest walk in the Gorge…..
Adult $270.00 | Child $225.00 5 - 15 yrs | Family 2A+2C $910.00 2A+2C
Adult $179| Child $79
Available Tues to Sat 3pm – 6:15pm
Experience available up until 28th June 2026
Aquarium by twilight gives you an insight into the unique changes of the region’s nocturnal sea creatures as they move about in the shadows. Witness the predators in the Oceanarium with appetiser and drink in hand, before completing your evening at Dundee’s Restaurant with a perfectly matched 3 course dining experience while enjoying a stunning marine life backdrop.
Adult $315|Child $228
Fuel Levy Adult $10 Child $5 payable on the day of travel
Departs Port Douglas 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Silversonic from Port Douglas takes you to explore three stunning and exclusive outer edge locations at the renowned Agincourt ribbon reefs in superb style and comfort. Spend 5 hours at the reef enjoying unlimited snorkelling and some of the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Includes Port Douglas hotel transfers, hot and cold Tropical Buffet Lunch & all snorkelling and dive equipment included.
Adult $328.00 | Child $238.00 | $10.00 Adult $5 Child Fuel levy payable on the day of travel
Adult $70| Child 2-11yrs $50
Family 2A+2C $190
Departs 10.45am, 1.00pm & 3.15pm
Embark on a 75 minute journey of tranquility with Cairns River Cruise sightseeing tour as you navigate the serene waters of Trinity Inlet. Modern spacious boat meticulously designed for comfort, ensuring uninterrupted views of the breathtaking surroundings.
Experience the beauty of Cairns waterfront bordered by majestic mountains and lush mangroves, serving as a haven for a diverse array of wildlife.
$1189.00 per person
Departs Daily from Port Douglas
11.10am – 3.30pm
Short on time or want to experience the Great Barrier Reef on a return scenic flight. Takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife – sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).
Spend 2 hours – 15 minutes at the Quicksilver pontoon to enjoy snorkelling, semi submersible coral viewing tour, underwater observatory and a delicious buffet lunch.
Adult $145|Child$80|Family $390
Gold class option 9.30 train only $60 per person
Train departs Cairns 8.30am or 9.30am
Return Skyrail 2.30pm or 3.30pm
Tour not bookable online – please contact us P: 07 40283567
Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Cairns Central or Freshwater Station, choose from 8:30 am or 9:30 am trains (Gold Class upgrade available). Explore the Kuranda markets Wednesday through to Sunday and the many attractions of Kuranda, then return on the Skyrail as you guide over the rainforest canopy. Includes return transfers from Skyrail to Cairns Railway Station.
Adult $155.50 | Child $85.00 | Family 2A+2C 4-14yrs $399.00 | Gold class option 9.30 train only $60.00 per person
Adult $240 |Child 4-14 yrs $142
Departs Mon to Sat 9am – 6pm
Green Island and Cairns City Sights Tour is an exciting day tour that takes you on a journey to explore the natural beauty and cultural highlights of two unique destinations. Morning begins with a visit to the beautiful Green Island, where you have the opportunity to snorkel or do a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Return to Cairns where you’ll explore the sights and sounds of this vibrant tropical city.
Adult $240.00 | Child 4-14 yrs $142.00
Adult from $239 Child (7-14yrs) $215 not suitable for under 7yrs
Depart daily from Port Douglas only at 7.30am – 4.30pm
Discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest in style. Enjoy guided interpretive walks, a gourmet lunch and a wildlife cruise on Cooper Creek to spot crocodiles and birdlife. Friendly local guides who will share the stories, culture and ecology that make this World Heritage-listed rainforest so extraordinary.
This unique Daintree Rainforest experience will have you discovering Mossman Gorge in depth. Start the day with a secret location to commence your ‘River drift’ tour,. Enjoy lunch and a traditional smoking ceremony ending the day with a 1.5 hour guided rainforest walk in the Gorge…..
Adult $270.00 | Child $225.00 5 - 15 yrs | Family 2A+2C $910.00 2A+2C
Adult $179| Child $79
Available Tues to Sat 3pm – 6:15pm
Experience available up until 28th June 2026
Aquarium by twilight gives you an insight into the unique changes of the region’s nocturnal sea creatures as they move about in the shadows. Witness the predators in the Oceanarium with appetiser and drink in hand, before completing your evening at Dundee’s Restaurant with a perfectly matched 3 course dining experience while enjoying a stunning marine life backdrop.
Adult $315|Child $228
Fuel Levy Adult $10 Child $5 payable on the day of travel
Departs Port Douglas 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Silversonic from Port Douglas takes you to explore three stunning and exclusive outer edge locations at the renowned Agincourt ribbon reefs in superb style and comfort. Spend 5 hours at the reef enjoying unlimited snorkelling and some of the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Includes Port Douglas hotel transfers, hot and cold Tropical Buffet Lunch & all snorkelling and dive equipment included.
Adult $328.00 | Child $238.00 | $10.00 Adult $5 Child Fuel levy payable on the day of travel
Here’s why thousands of customers loveCairns Discovery Tours.
🗓️ Flexible Cancellations
Enjoy peace of mind with our flexible booking policy. Most Cairns Discovery Tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure with a full refund. We make exploring Cairns stress-free, so you can book with confidence.
💳 Book Now, Pay Later
Secure your place on our popular Cairns day tours with Klarna’s Book Now, Pay Later option. Lock in your adventure today and pay in easy installments — perfect for planning your Cairns holiday without upfront costs.
🌴 Local Since 1995
For over 28 years, Cairns Discovery Tours has been proudly locally owned and operated. Established in 1995, we’ve shared the tropical beauty of Cairns with thousands of travellers, offering authentic, community-connected tour experiences.
👩🏫 Expert Local Guides
Our passionate Cairns tour guides are storytellers, historians, and nature enthusiasts. With deep local knowledge, they bring the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Cairns’ tropical heritage to life, ensuring an unforgettable and educational experience.
