Cairns: Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Tour

Exploring the Frankland Islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef promises an unforgettable adventure. This comprehensive tour from Cairns whisks visitors to a pristine natural wonderland, where they can enjoy awe-inspiring rainforests, tranquil rivers, and vibrant coral reefs. From snorkeling to guided island walks, the activities on offer cater to every interest. While the tour’s accessibility is limited, those who embark on this journey are sure to be captivated by the region’s breathtaking beauty and abundant wildlife. The stage is set for an extraordinary experience, leaving one eager to uncover more about this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• This tour offers an adventure-packed exploration of the unparalleled beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, including pristine rainforests, tranquil rivers, and vibrant coral reefs.
• The tour includes a 75-minute bus transfer from Cairns to Deeral Jetty, followed by a 75-minute boat ride to Normanby Island for up to 4 hours of exploration.
• Activities offered during the tour include snorkeling, semi-submarine reef expedition, guided island walks, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, along with a tropical buffet lunch.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and pets, weapons, and smoking are strictly prohibited.
• The tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, with the shortest open-water crossing of any Great Barrier Reef day tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This adventure-packed tour allows visitors to discover the unparalleled beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, with opportunities to explore pristine rainforests, tranquil rivers, and vibrant coral reefs.

Starting from Cairns, you’ll take a scenic 75-minute bus transfer to Deeral Jetty, followed by a 75-minute boat ride to the stunning Normanby Island in the Frankland Islands.

Over the next four hours, you’ll have the chance to snorkel with a marine biologist, embark on a semi-submarine reef expedition, and go on a guided island walk.

Other activities include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and a tropical buffet lunch.

This tour offers the shortest open-water crossing of any Great Barrier Reef day tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a 75-minute bus or coach transfer from Cairns to Deeral Jetty, where participants then board a 75-minute boat ride to the picturesque Normanby Island in the Frankland Islands.

Once there, visitors can spend up to 4 hours exploring the unspoiled rainforests, tranquil rivers, and pristine coral reefs of the island.

The return journey involves a 1.5-hour boat ride back to the mainland and a 1.5-hour bus or coach transfer to Cairns.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a variety of included activities such as snorkeling, a semi-submarine reef expedition, guided island walks, and kayaking, as well as a tropical buffet lunch.

Included Activities

The tour package includes a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy during their time on the Frankland Islands.

Guests can embark on a snorkel safari led by a marine biologist, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. They’ll also have the chance to take a semi-submarine reef expedition with informative commentary.

Guided island walks allow visitors to discover the unspoiled rainforest landscapes. Plus, guests can try their hand at kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

To refuel, a tropical buffet lunch is provided. The tour also includes morning and afternoon tea, as well as unlimited freshwater.

For younger guests, there’s a special Snorkel Stars program offering a snorkeling tutorial and certificate.

Highlights

Frankland Islands tour boasts the shortest open water crossing of any Great Barrier Reef day tour, allowing visitors to efficiently access the pristine coral reefs and rainforest landscapes.

Throughout the adventure, travelers will enjoy morning and afternoon tea, as well as unlimited freshwater.

Kids can even participate in the Snorkel Stars tutorial and earn a certificate, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

For those interested in trying something new, introductory scuba diving is available at an additional cost.

With its convenient location and diverse activities, the Frankland Islands tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Restrictions

While the Frankland Islands tour offers a wealth of activities and natural wonders, there are some important restrictions and limitations to be aware of. For instance, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the terrain and transportation options may pose challenges. Plus, certain items like pets, weapons, and smoking are strictly prohibited to maintain the integrity of the environment and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Restrictions
Mobility impairments
Wheelchair users
Pets
Weapons
Smoking

Getting There

Travelers can start their Frankland Islands adventure with a 75-minute bus or coach transfer from Cairns to the Deeral Jetty.

Once at the jetty, they’ll board a 75-minute water transport to the stunning Normanby Island, part of the Frankland Islands. This short open-water crossing is the shortest of any Great Barrier Reef tour, making it a convenient and accessible option for visitors.

Upon arrival, guests will have up to 4 hours to explore the untouched rainforests, tranquil rivers, and pristine coral reefs that make this destination so special.

After a memorable day, the return journey to Cairns includes a 1.5-hour water transport and a 1.5-hour bus or coach transfer.

What to Bring

Guests’ packing list should include swimwear, towels, and sun protection, as they’ll be spending ample time outdoors exploring the Frankland Islands’ natural wonders.

Visitors are encouraged to bring:

1. A hat or visor to shield their face from the tropical sun.
2. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the guided island walk.
3. A camera to capture the stunning scenery and vibrant marine life.

In addition, visitors should pack any personal medication or snacks, as the tour includes a tropical buffet lunch but no other food or drink.

With these essentials packed, guests can fully enjoy the Frankland Islands’ captivating ecosystem and create lasting memories of their Great Barrier Reef adventure.

Booking Information

Visitors can book the Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Tour through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability.

The tour price includes all activities and transportation as outlined in the itinerary, with an optional add-on for introductory scuba diving. Payment can be made securely online or over the phone.

Travelers should review the tour details and restrictions carefully before booking, as the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. Cancellation and refund policies are clearly stated, allowing guests to plan their trip with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is a minimum age requirement of 6 years old for this tour. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour may not be suitable for very young children or infants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

On this tour, participants can bring their own food and beverages, but the operator provides a tropical buffet lunch as part of the included activities. Guests are advised to check for any restrictions on outside food and drinks.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Boat and Islands?

There is no mention of Wi-Fi being available on the boat or islands in the tour overview. Guests should expect limited to no connectivity during the tour, as the focus is on experiencing the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take photos and videos throughout the tour. Cameras and smartphones are allowed on the boat and on the islands, allowing guests to capture memorable moments during the snorkeling, kayaking, and other activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time Spent on the Islands?

There is an option to extend the time spent on the Frankland Islands, though this would require booking a longer tour package. The standard tour includes up to 4 hours on the islands, but additional time can likely be arranged for an extra fee.

Recap

The Cairns: Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the region.

From snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to hiking through pristine rainforests, the tour provides a diverse range of activities to suit all interests.

While it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for those who can participate.

You can check if your dates are available here: