Discover the magic of the Frankland Islands
NAMED by explorer James Cook in 1770, the Frankland Islands have long been a popular fishing and boating destination for locals.
They also have special significance for the Mandingalbay Yidinji and Gunggandji Aboriginal people who have fished, hunted and gathered food on the islands and adjacent sea country for generations.
The islands are a perfect place to dive and snorkel during school holidays with Frankland Islands Reef Cruises offering daily departures from Deeral landing on the banks of the Mulgrave River.
The company is the only commercial operator allowed to visit the uninhabited islands, which lie about 10km offshore and 45km southeast of Cairns.
Their tour includes a river, reef and island experience.
There are five islands in the Frankland group – High, Normanby, Mabel, Round and Russell – with an array of bird life on the islands and fringing reefs surrounding them.
Frankland Islands Reef Cruises offers snorkelling tours and introductory diving, as well as more adventurous underwater options for certified and experienced divers.
An expert marine biologist is on hand to explain the island group’s eco system and optional extras include a guided semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat tour, guided walks and a rock pool discovery tour.
Kayaks, paddle boards and underwater scooters are also available for hire.
The semi-submersible tour provides an opportunity to view beautiful coral formations, schools of colourful tropical fish and the sheer dropoffs on the Great Barrier Reef.
“A variety of dive sites are exclusive to our guests,” a company spokeswoman said.
“Divers can access our remote western sites by boat and explore rarely visited pristine reefs.”
Hotel transfers are also available and a locals’ discount applies for families and school students in the region.
The Frankland Group National Park is open year-round with camping permitted on Russell and High islands.