Express Day Tour

Frankland Islands Express Tour

Save on money, not on memories!

Short on time but still want to experience the best of the reef? Our new Express Tour is perfect for those looking for a later start and an earlier return – ideal for families with young children, cruise ship passengers, or those who want to fit more into their Cairns itinerary.

Enjoy all the magic of Normanby Island and the Great Barrier Reef with core inclusions such as:

Time to swim, explore the island, or simply relax on the beach
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for use
Choice of one guided activity (semi-sub tour or guided beach snorkelling tour)

This express tour does not include the adventure snorkel safari, guided island walk or kids treasure hunt, and has an optional picnic lunch add-on, making it a more flexible, value-conscious option.

Green Turtle on the Great Barrier Reef

Couple in Snorkelling Gear at Frankland Island

Departure Information

Complimentary coach transfers from selected Cairns CBD locations commence from 9.00 am
If you prefer to self-drive, please allow time for the drive and check in at Deeral by 10.00 am
The transfer vessel departs Deeral at 10.15 am and returns approximately 2.30 pm

Please note: Departure and return times may vary with tides. We will notify guests of any schedule changes in advance.

Want more time in paradise? Check out our All-inclusive Full Day Tour option here.

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises

Express Tour Prices

Adult (17+)
$195

Child (4 – 16 years)
$125

Infant (3 years and under)
Free of charge

Family Pass (2AD and 2CH)
Second child travels free!
$525

Includes complimentary coach transfers from selected Cairns CBD locations.

Prices quoted are in $AUD and include all taxes and a temporary fuel recovery surcharge. Valid until 31 March 2027 or until superseded.

River, Rainforest and Reef Activities

Amazing adventures available during your perfect day

Frankland Islands Reef Tours Mulgrave River Cruise 3

River Cruise

Step on board our new boat the Wantaim at Deeral, just 45 minutes south of Cairns, for a spectacular calm water cruise down the Mulgrave River. Keep an eye out for crocodiles from the shaded outdoor deck. From the mouth of the river, it’s only 10km to the Frankland Islands.

Frankland Semi Sub Tours Cairns

Semi-Submarine Tour

Discover the pristine coral reefs without getting your feet wet from the comfort of our semi-submarine. Take a guided tour of the reefs that surround the islands and learn about the Great Barrier Reef’s incredible ecosystem. Get up close and personal with fish, turtles and a diverse range of hard and soft corals.

Please note: The Guided Beach Snorkel takes place at the same time as the Semi-Sub tour.

Cairns Snorkel Tours Frankland Island

Guided Beach Snorkel

See more of the reef with the guided beach snorkel tour. Starting off from the beach, you’ll enjoy an easy 30-minute snorkel tour guided by our marine biologist, who will point out interesting coral and marine life and share information along the way.

Please note: The Semi-Sub tour takes place at the same time as the Guided Beach Snorkel.

Couple in Snorkelling Gear at Frankland Island

Beach Snorkelling

Help yourself to our state-of-the-art snorkelling gear and snorkel straight off the beach in our supervised area, and see the abundant marine life and vibrant coral gardens close to the shore.

frankland-islands-reef-tours-stand-up-paddleboarding

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Glide through the clear tropical waters and enjoy amazing views of the corals, fish and marine life below with our two-seater kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, available for use during the day.

Frankland Islands Express Tour Picnic Lunch 1920x1080

Picnic Lunch (Optional Extra)

Tuck into a delicious pre-packed picnic lunch, which can be added on to our Express Tour (must be pre-booked 24 hours in advance). Including both vegetarian and vegan options for every taste.

Benfield2015, Apr 2026 (Tripadvisor)

Fabulous experience. Staff had tons of enthusiasm and took great care of us. The person that lead the snorkel tour (I didn’t catch her name but she is from Missouri) was particularly great. Do not hesitate to take this tour. The snorkeling was awesome and we had plenty of time. Even saw a manta ray!

Rachel N, Aug 2025 (Tripadvisor)

Wow!! What a fabulous trip. Friendly, warm and knowledgeable guides, fabulous and yummy lunch. The island itself is beautiful, relatively untouched and a multitude of sealife to view. A truly wonderful day.

Marco F, Mar 2026 (Tripadvisor)

Truly awesome! Much better and less crowded/touristy than the Outer Reef/Green/Fitzroy tours for a more secluded feel. All inclusive makes it stress free. Tour guides were fun and informative. River entrance adds the croc dimension. Definitely recommend this tour more than the others or at least do both, but don’t miss this.

Amelia, Feb 2026 (Tripadvisor)

Amazing day out at Frankland Islands. The staff were so great with the kids (they especially loved the pirate treasure hunt)! We had a wonderful time on the glass bottom boat, snorkelling with turtles and kayaking. Thanks to the great crew, especially Riley & Jimmy who made our day!

Liz K, Feb 2026 (Tripadvisor)

Excellent tour. Frankland Islands are fascinating. River cruise is very interesting way to start a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Short ocean crossing to the islands. The staff are highly qualified, attentive and friendly. Tour is very well organised.

Andy N, Nov 2025 (Tripadvisor)

A superb day out on the reef on a deserted island. All inclusive experience including hotel transfer, lunch and all snorkelling kit etc. first class tour guides offering insight, humour and great organisation. Walk around the island, take in the breath-taking views, snorkel for marine life and befriend some baby black tip reef sharks! They even threw in a croc sunbathing on the way back. Well worth the money!

Josh, May 2026 (Google Reviews)

Had a beautiful day, shark, many mantas, turtles, beautiful coral and thousands of fish. Max was an excellent guide too. Highly recommend

Alan S, Apr 2026 (Google Reviews)

The whole day was great. Starting in the river and then going into the ocean gave a different perspective than other cruises. Saw a crocodile on the way back in the river. Highly recommend this company and cruise.

Simone W, Apr 2026 (Google Reviews)

Amazing experience, beautiful island that is truly well maintained, the crew did such a great job in keeping us safe and making us feel comfortable and giving us the best experience ♥️🐢

Oliver, Apr 2026 (Google Reviews)

A perfect day with a totally engaged and friendly staff. I can recommend this to everyone, so much better with the small group and more individual than all the other snorkeling tours mass tourism tours.

Matt R, Mar 2026 (Google Reviews)

Thanks to the whole Frankland Islands team, we had a great day out. Everyone was so friendly. Max especially was great with the snorkel safari and the island walk; he was so knowledgeable and genuinely interested in what he was showing us. We would highly recommend this.

Book your express day tour now!