The Frankland Islands, nestled within the iconic Great Barrier Reef, offer a captivating opportunity for travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Australia’s natural wonders. This full-day cruise tour promises an engaging and comprehensive experience, blending guided snorkeling, kayaking, and island walks led by marine biologists. With rave reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this excursion caters to those yearning to discover the reef’s vibrant ecosystems and bask in the serenity of its remote, untouched landscapes. Yet, the true allure of this tour lies in the potential for unexpected discoveries that await the discerning adventurer.
This experience made our list of the 24 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Cairns and the Tropical North.
Key Points
- The tour offers a full-day excursion to explore the remote and pristine Frankland Islands, part of the Great Barrier Reef.
- Includes a guided adventure snorkel safari, use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards, as well as a marine biologist-led island walk.
- Provides a fresh tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and the option for introductory diving.
- Offers a hassle-free pickup service from select Cairns accommodations or directly at the meeting point, Deeral Jetty.
- Follows a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers.
Tour Overview
The Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Cruise Tour offers a full-day excursion to explore the natural wonders of this remote and pristine section of the Great Barrier Reef.
This tour has earned an impressive 325 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, showcasing its popularity and quality among travelers visiting Cairns and the Tropical North region of Australia.
Participants can look forward to a guided adventure snorkel safari, the use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards, as well as a marine biologist-led island walk.
The tour also includes a 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River, a fresh tropical buffet lunch, and the option to try introductory diving.
With spacious and comfortable transportation, this comprehensive tour provides an exceptional Great Barrier Reef experience.
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Inclusions
This tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards, providing visitors with a diverse array of water-based activities to enjoy during their excursion.
The guided adventure snorkel safari tour allows guests to explore the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, while morning and afternoon tea and a fresh tropical buffet lunch cater to their dietary needs.
Lycra suits are provided during stinger season, and a river and island cruise, as well as a marine biologist-led island walk, offer opportunities to discover the surrounding natural environment.
The tour also includes return transfers to and from select accommodations in Cairns and a spacious, comfortable boat for the journey.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup for the Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef Cruise Tour is available from select accommodation in Cairns or directly at the meeting point, Deeral Jetty, located at 169 Ross Rd, Deeral QLD 4871. The tour departs at 8:30 AM.
This convenient pickup service ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure.
The meeting point at Deeral Jetty provides a scenic and accessible location to begin the tour, allowing guests to easily board the spacious and comfortable boat.
The early 8:30 AM departure time allows ample time to explore the Frankland Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, maximizing the day’s activities.
The pickup from select accommodation in Cairns offers a hassle-free way for guests to reach the starting point, without the need for personal transportation.
Additional Information
Travelers should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are permitted, and most you can participate.
Plus, lycra suits are required during stinger season for safety, and a snorkeling safety acknowledgement must be provided prior to the tour.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.
On top of that, the island walk involves traversing areas without paved walkways, requiring guests to carry or push prams through the sand.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
Guests should note that there are no paved walkways on the island, and prams must be carried or pushed through the sand.
Cancellation Policy
The tour offers a free cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts without penalty.
This flexible policy provides several benefits:
- It gives travelers peace of mind, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary without facing financial consequences.
- It encourages booking in advance, as customers feel more confident committing to the tour.
- It demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and their understanding of the unpredictable nature of travel.
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Snorkeling Safari Tour
The guided adventure snorkel safari tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the Frankland Islands’ vibrant underwater world within the Great Barrier Reef.
Led by knowledgeable marine biologists, the tour provides an up-close encounter with the diverse array of marine life thriving in this tropical ecosystem.
Snorkelers can observe colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and perhaps even encounter friendly sea turtles or reef sharks.
The tour is designed to maximize safety and enjoyment, with the provision of high-quality snorkeling equipment and guidance on proper techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this guided adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Tropical Buffet Lunch
During the cruise, guests typically enjoy a freshly prepared tropical buffet lunch, featuring an array of delectable local and international dishes. The menu boasts a mouthwatering selection of seafood, grilled meats, salads, and seasonal fruits, all expertly crafted to tantalize the taste buds and fuel the adventurous spirit of the day’s activities.
The buffet showcases the vibrant flavors of the region, allowing guests to savor the unique culinary heritage of the Tropical North. With something to please every palate, the lunch is a delightful complement to the stunning natural beauty of the Frankland Islands.
The buffet’s diverse offerings cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring an inclusive dining experience.
The use of locally sourced, fresh ingredients highlights the region’s bountiful produce and sustainable practices.
The convivial atmosphere of the buffet encourages camaraderie and conversation among fellow adventurers.
River and Island Cruise
After indulging in the bountiful tropical buffet, guests embark on a serene 30-minute cruise along the Mulgrave River, setting the stage for their adventure in the Frankland Islands.
Gliding peacefully through the river’s calm waters, travelers take in the lush, verdant surroundings as they approach the remote island destination. Upon arrival, they’ll disembark and explore the island’s pristine beaches and tropical landscapes on a guided adventure.
Whether hiking the island trails or relaxing on the shores, guests are immersed in the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. This river and island cruise provides a tranquil transition into the main highlight of the day – snorkeling the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Deep Can I Expect to Snorkel?
The depth you can expect to snorkel varies, but the average snorkeling depth is typically between 3 to 6 meters (10 to 20 feet). This allows for easy access to the vibrant marine life and coral formations.
What Is the Best Time to See Wildlife?
The best time to see wildlife is typically in the morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. During the middle of the day, wildlife may be less visible as they rest in the heat. However, the tour offers opportunities to see marine life throughout the day.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The full-day cruise is the only available experience, and there are no add-ons or upgrade options mentioned in the provided information.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes a fresh tropical buffet lunch as well as morning and afternoon tea, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
Will There Be Photo Opportunities During the Tour?
There are numerous photo opportunities throughout the tour. Guests can capture images of the stunning natural scenery, diverse marine life, and group activities like snorkeling and kayaking. The boat’s spacious layout provides ample space for taking great photos.
Recap
This full-day Frankland Islands tour provides visitors with a comprehensive and immersive experience to discover the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
From guided snorkeling and kayaking to a marine biologist-led island walk, the tour offers a diverse range of activities that showcase the reef’s pristine ecosystems.
With a fresh tropical buffet lunch and the option for introductory diving, this highly-rated excursion is an excellent choice for those seeking a quality, all-inclusive Great Barrier Reef experience.
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