Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Getting to the Frankland Islands requires planning. Learn what to pack, how to get to Deeral, and what to expect on the islands.
Frankland Islands
Frankland Group National Park, Deeral, Queensland
GPS -17.2269, 146.0903
Open directionsGetting there
Tours and private boat access.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises (coach from Cairns, boat from Deeral) | approx 1.5 hours total (45 min drive, 45 min boat) | approx US$200 | The only commercial operator allowed. Includes a scenic river cruise down the Mulgrave River and a short open water crossing. |
| Boat: Private vessel from the Mulgrave or Russell river boat ramps | 30-45 minutes | Fuel costs and ramp fees | Check tide times, as sandbars at Mutchero Inlet make crossing the shallow river mouth tide-dependent. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The islands are accessible all year. The dry season from June to October is the most popular time to visit. Read more about the Seasonal guide.
What to bring
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There are no bins anywhere in the Frankland Group National Park.
You must carry out all your own rubbish.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules for visiting Normanby Island or camping overnight.
A typical timeline for the 8-hour commercial trip.
- Coach transfer
Pickup from your Cairns accommodation and 45-minute drive to Deeral.
- River and reef cruise
30-minute cruise down the Mulgrave River followed by a 10km open-water crossing.
- Island walk and snorkel
Take the guided island walk on Normanby Island and snorkel the shallow reefs.
- Buffet meal
Enjoy the included tropical buffet lunch on the island.
- Return journey
Depart the island, cruise back up the river, and return to Cairns.
How to structure an overnight stay using a private boat.
- Book permits
Secure Queensland Parks camping permits online for Russell or High Island.
- Check tide times
Depart from the Mulgrave or Russell river boat ramps when tides allow safe crossing at Mutchero Inlet.
- Set up camp
Arrive at the island and establish your self-sufficient campsite.
- Explore
Snorkel the fringing coral reefs or walk up to the historic 1929 lighthouse on Russell Island.
- Pack out waste
Ensure all rubbish is packed up before navigating back to the mainland.
Important Rules and Safety
You cannot light campfires or fly drones anywhere in the National Park. If you visit between September 1 and March 31, stay out of the fenced sand spit areas. These areas protect nesting seabirds.
Snorkel with a buddy at all times. During warmer months, you must wear a stinger suit to protect against dangerous jellyfish. Be aware that estuarine crocodiles can occur in the rivers on the way to the islands.
Easiest way to do it
All Inclusive Day Tour to Frankland Islands Great Barrier Reef
8 h 4.7 (455)
- Spacious and comfortable boat
- Spectacular 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River
- Guided Island Walk
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks and Stand up Paddle boards
From$186per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I pack?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and a reusable water bottle. Sturdy walking shoes are required for the island trails. Also pack insect repellent and a light windbreaker for the boat ride.
Are there facilities on the islands?
No. There is no running water, sewage system, or rubbish bins on any of the islands. Campers must be completely self-sufficient.
Do tours provide stinger suits?
Yes. Commercial tours usually provide lycra stinger suits during the seasonal months when jellyfish are present.