Coral Sea Marina: Pioneering Eco-Tourism at the Great Barrier Reef

Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, Queensland, has just become Australia's first marina to earn Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia, setting a new standard in eco-friendly tourism. Nestled by the Great Barrier Reef, this marina draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It’s in a prime position to lead the way in sustainable practices within the Whitsundays.

What This Means for Coral Sea Marina

Joscelyn O'Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development, shares the significance of this milestone:

"As a marina in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, we know our role in shaping a sustainable tourism industry in the Whitsundays. This certification highlights our commitment to responsible environmental management, which has always been central to our approach. We're excited to be the first in Australia with this certification, reinforcing our dedication to preserving our surroundings and encouraging responsible boating practices."

Recognition from Ecotourism Australia

Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan praised Coral Sea Marina’s achievement:

"Being the first marina to earn Sustainable Tourism Certification is remarkable, showing Coral Sea Marina's commitment to protecting the Whitsunday's incredible waters. With 38 ECO Certified operators in the area, 18 of whom work directly with the marina, it's clear that this region is setting an impressive standard in ecotourism."

Australia’s Ocean Economy

Australia's oceans cover the third-largest marine jurisdiction in the world, supporting a $118.5 billion economy and 462,000 jobs. With nearly 200 ECO-certified operators and over 700 marine-based experiences nationwide, Ecotourism Australia aims to make tourism a force for ocean preservation. Coral Sea Marina, through its dedicated practices, plays a significant role in this mission.

The Certification Process

This Sustainable Tourism Certification is no quick badge—it’s a rigorous process where businesses undergo third-party audits based on Ecotourism Australia's standards across four key pillars of sustainability:

• Environmental

• Cultural

• Socio-Economic

• Operational

Coral Sea Marina’s Commitment to Sustainability

Coral Sea Marina weaves sustainability into its operations. Their Coral Sea Academy educates guests and locals alike on the Great Barrier Reef and eco-friendly boating. The marina features interpretive signs, a seagrass nursery, and citizen science programs, and it honors the Birri-Gubba Nation, the traditional custodians of the land, through cultural collaborations, signage, and resources.

As an award-winning marina with 520 wet berths, two lively shoreside villages, and the base for over 80% of the Whitsundays' on-water tourism experiences, Coral Sea Marina has created a vibrant hub where travelers and locals can connect, celebrate, and learn.

Discover More

Ready to explore a model of sustainable tourism? Check out the Coral Sea Marina Resort