Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, Queensland, has set a new standard by becoming Australia’s first marina to receive sustainable tourism certification through Ecotourism Australia. Located near the Great Barrier Reef, this certification highlights Coral Sea Marina’s commitment to environmentally responsible tourism and strengthens its role as a sustainable tourism leader in the Whitsunday Islands.
Coral Sea Marina’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, Jocelyn O’Keefe, expressed pride in this achievement and highlighted the marina’s commitment to sustainability. “Our marina has a unique location in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is a destination marina, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. We are committed to supporting a sustainable tourism industry in the Whitsundays. “Commitment to effective environmental management is a key priority for us as a company, as we are acutely aware of the important role that marinas play in the development of marinas,” Mr O’Keefe said. She added: “We are thrilled to have achieved sustainable tourism certification through Ecotourism Australia and to be the first marina in Australia to achieve this certification.”
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan also praised the marina’s achievements, recognizing it as a milestone for both Coral Sea Marina and Australia’s tourism industry. “Coral Sea Marina is the first marina to achieve sustainable tourism certification. Achieving global standard certification is a testament to the company’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.”
Ecotourism Australia’s sustainable tourism certification requires rigorous third-party auditing across four pillars of sustainability: environmental impact, cultural and social contribution, economic benefit and responsible business practices. Coral Sea Marina’s commitment to these values is evident through initiatives such as the Coral Sea Academy, which provides educational resources on ocean conservation, the Great Barrier Reef and eco-friendly boating. In addition, the marina incorporates interpretive signage, a seagrass nursery, and a citizen science program that engages guests in hands-on conservation efforts.
Notable aspects of Coral Sea Marina’s approach to sustainability include honoring the Biri-Gabba people, the traditional custodians of this land, through cultural collaborations, educational signage and digital resources; Contains. In addition, Coral Sea Marina Resort promotes environmental awareness through green boat guides and regular updates to guests, encouraging visitors to respect the natural and cultural heritage of the Whitsunday Islands.
Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning destination with 520 berths and two thriving marina villages, hosting 80% of the region’s water tourism, including 52 commercial operators. With its prime location, Coral Sea Marina offers visitors access to a range of inspiring events and on-water experiences, making it a premier destination in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Through these initiatives, Coral Sea Marina embodies the integration of sustainable tourism practices and ensures a positive and lasting impact on the Whitsunday Islands.
Please contact Coral Sea Marina for more information.
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Image courtesy of Coral Sea Marina.
