CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS ENVIRONMENTAL CARE

Cruise Whitsundays has a strong environmental ethic. We believe that the Great Barrier Reef, its marine life and the Whitsundays natural environment are the most important aspects of our operation.

We want to ensure that the reef will be preserved for all to enjoy today, tomorrow and for the future.

ADVANCED ECO CERTIFIED TOUR OPERATOR

Cruise Whitsundays has Advanced Eco Certification for Camira Sailing Adventure, Great Barrier Reef Adventures, Reefsleep and Whitehaven Beach Day Cruise. This globally recognised certificate is only given to Australia’s leading and most innovative ecotourism products. We are committed to achieving best practice, using resources wisely, contributing to the conservation of the environment and helping local communities. The Eco Certification program assures travellers that certified products are backed by a strong, well managed commitment to sustainable practices and provides high quality nature-based tourism experiences.

HOW CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS
CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

We love the Whitsundays, the majestic Great Barrier Reef that lines the coast, the pristine beaches and tropical forests that blanket the islands. We also care deeply for the marine and mammal life that call this area home. We know that it is our responsibility to set a standard for protecting this fragile environment.

Below are some of our environmental practices.

We operate the following environmental practices for our Great Barrier Reef Adventure:

• An environmental awareness staff training program to ensure all staff are well-trained, qualified and competent with regards to issues relating to the environment.
• A policy ensuring all equipment is cleaned using products that do not cause environmental harm.
• Appropriate waste and recycling bins are placed in obvious positions on the pontoon. The waste bins that are used are specially designed for outdoor conditions to prevent accidental flyaway littering.
• All sewage produced on the Pontoon by caretaker and Reefsleep guests is stored in a 1000 litre holding tank. The contents of the holding tank are then transferred to the passenger transfer vessel for approved disposal, as per the vessel Sewage Management Plan and Sea Dumping Permit.
• A desalination unit is installed on Reefworld, which provides fresh water for staff and overnight guests on demand.
• All unnecessary engines are shut down and generators turned off at night.
• No toxic antifoul is applied to fixed structures (pontoons) or vessels.
• Seabirds are discouraged from roosting on pontoon structures and vessels using sound to eliminate excessive guano deposits.
• Vessels approach and depart pontoon area slowly to prevent sediment suspension and reef erosion.
• Excess packaging materials are removed before departing mainland.
• Cultery and crockery is washed instead of disposable.
• Implementation of Drupella and Crown of Thorns Starfish Control Programs to prevent outbreaks at the Reefworld site.

Snorkelling & Diving

• Roped and buoyed areas establishing designated snorkel areas which self adjust to tide.
• Passengers informed on snorkeling techniques to prevent fin damage to the reef.
• Lifeguard and other staff monitor activities to ensure people do not stand on the reef.
• No handling of any marine life by staff or passengers during diving or snorkeling activities No fish feeding while diving or snorkeling.
• SCUBA diving to be conducted in deeper water to prevent fin damage from divers
• Divers briefed on proper diving techniques and rules of the reef.
• Onboard passenger interpretation program (e.g. briefs, presentations, signs and brochures) highlighting best practices and care of the reef.

Marine Fauna Harassment

• A ‘no marine life handling’ policy to be enforced for all activities.
• All staff to be aware of sensitive environment, and best practices to minimise impacts.
• Divers not allowed to wear gloves.

Semi-Submersible

• To follow designated path and remain in water deep enough to ensure safe passage over the reef.
• The designated path is to be determined in consultation with the Ship’s Master, but also to take into account prevailing circumstances and conditions.
• No excessive revving of engine to prevent reef erosion.

DID YOU KNOW...
Whitehaven Beach has almost 100% silica sand, giving it the vivid white colour.