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Sustainable Tourism

 

Sunlover Sustainability Efforts 

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, sustainable tourism is more than a policy—it’s our promise to the planet. As stewards of the Great Barrier Reef, we are committed to protecting this delicate marine ecosystem through eco-conscious practices and responsible tourism that ensure its future for generations to come.

Our Commitment to Sustainability and Marine Protection

We recognise the immense privilege of operating in one of the world’s most spectacular natural environments. That’s why we’re continually refining our sustainability strategy—balancing unforgettable visitor experiences with the preservation of the reef’s biodiversity.

Our operations are shaped by the principles of eco-tourism and marine conservation, ensuring that both our guests and the reef benefit from our presence.

ECO Certification Hall of Fame badge – recognising 20 years of sustainable tourism with Sunlover Reef Cruises

Recognised for 20 Years of Certified Sustainability

Sunlover Reef Cruises is proud to be in the ECO Certification Hall of Fame. We have been recognised for over 20 years of certified sustainable tourism practices.  In 2025, we became one of only 11 tourism operators in Australia to reach this milestone—acknowledging two decades of ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and best-practice reef tourism.

 

Marine Research & Wildlife Protection

As an EcoTourism certified operator, Sunlover Reef Cruises is committed to protecting the diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef through responsible tourism and conservation initiatives. We work closely with marine scientists and Marine Park Authorities, supporting data collection that informs the long-term, science-based management of the Marine Park.

For example, our work includes coral spawning observations and specialised overnight research projects at the Moore Reef pontoon. As a result, these partnerships ensure that every Sunlover journey connects visitors with the reef and contributes to the knowledge needed to safeguard it for future generations.

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Conservation and Education Initiatives

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, we believe that education and awareness are the foundations of sustainability. By sharing knowledge with our guests, staff, and community partners, we help foster a deeper understanding of the Great Barrier Reef and how we can all contribute to its protection.

Through education, research, and direct visitor contributions, we are proud to play an active role in both protecting the reef today and securing its future.

Community Partnerships

Sunlover Reef Cruises strive to work with partners and suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability. We give preference to suppliers who demonstrate environmentally responsible practices and work towards reducing their own environmental impact.

  • Sunlover is a proud supporter of Cairns Turtle Rehab and their staff members by providing multiple turtle releases from our Moore Reef pontoon that included tracking and media coverage.
  • Sunlover provides transportation and reef access to Resilient Reefs Foundation to build their coral nurseries and partake in reef studies and training for marine biologists. Since the start of this relationship Reef Restoration has installed 10 coral trees in Feb 2022 and within 12 months were successfully transplanting new coral in depleted areas. They have now expanded to 20 coral trees and are experiencing fantastic results.

Tourism and Reef Protection

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, we believe that responsible tourism goes hand in hand with reef conservation. We employ a team of three dedicated Marine Biologists who conduct regular reef health and impact surveys, contributing valuable data to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. This information directly supports the science-based management of the Marine Park.

In addition to research and monitoring, our crew actively engages in hands-on reef protection activities, including:

  • Crown-of-thorns starfish control to help reduce outbreaks of this coral-eating predator.

  • Drupella snail removal to minimise coral damage caused by these invasive snails.

  • Site Stewardship Plans developed to guide sustainable tourism and conservation practices at Moore Reef.

  • Photo transects and monitoring surveys that document reef health and track long-term changes in coral cover and marine life.

  • Education and engagement through our Marine Biologist for a Day program, giving visitors and students the chance to participate in citizen science.

These initiatives are carried out with the support and guidance of the Reef Authority and reinforce our commitment to sustainable reef tourism. Moore Reef is our backyard, and we are dedicated to ensuring it remains healthy, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.

Eye On The Reef

Our Sustainability Journey

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, sustainability is not a box to be ticked — it’s an evolving commitment. We regularly review our operations, set measurable goals, and explore innovative solutions that push us beyond compliance and into leadership.

Our priority is to make meaningful, long-lasting changes that reduce our footprint while enhancing the way we care for the reef. By investing in new technologies, building strong partnerships, and empowering both our crew and our guests, we’re working to set higher standards for reef tourism.

As custodians of the Great Barrier Reef, we are dedicated to ensuring this extraordinary natural wonder thrives — not just for today’s travellers, but for generations to come.

Marine biologist conducting reef survey with a green turtle swimming in the foreground on the Great Barrier Reef.

What Sunlover Does to Protect the Environment

Our commitment goes beyond words — it’s built into every part of our operations. We:

  • Minimise waste and reduce single-use plastics wherever possible

  • Provide refillable water stations and encourage guests to bring reusable bottles

  • Recycle all cans, bottles, and containers through the Container Deposit Scheme

  • Use biodegradable cleaning products and reef-safe sunscreen

  • Print brochures on FSC-certified paper from responsibly managed forests

  • Support reef conservation through partnerships like the Reef Restoration Foundation and Eye on the Reef

Every action we take — from the products we stock to the partnerships we support — is designed to protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

On the Day of Your Reef Adventure

When you join us onboard, small actions make a big difference:

  • Bring a refillable water bottle and use our refill stations to reduce single-use plastic.

  • Use designated recycling bins onboard and at the pontoon.

  • Choose reef-friendly sunscreen to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the water.

  • Follow crew guidance when snorkelling or diving — avoid touching or standing on coral.

  • Dispose of rubbish responsibly in covered bins to prevent litter escaping into the ocean.

  • Travel light — bring only what you need to reduce waste and energy use.

  • Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and never feeding fish or turtles.

At Home — Extend Your Impact

Protecting the reef doesn’t end when your tour does. You can continue to make a difference by:

  • Reducing single-use plastics in your daily life — swap to reusable bags, bottles, and containers.

  • Conserving water and energy — shorter showers, efficient appliances, and turning off lights all reduce pressure on natural resources.

  • Choosing eco-certified products — look for FSC, reef-safe, or biodegradable labels.

  • Supporting reef conservation projects — donations or citizen science initiatives help fund coral restoration and marine research.

  • Making sustainable travel choices — opt for shared transfers, public transport, or carbon offsetting when you travel.

  • Sharing your reef experience — inspire friends and family to care for the Great Barrier Reef and consider eco-friendly habits in their own lives.

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