Ocean Rafting has won the Eco Tourism Award for Australia and New Zealand at the 2026 Adventure Tourism Awards, alongside being named a Finalist in Best Day Tour/Activity.
Presented by Adventure Queensland, these awards mark a proud achievement for our family-owned Whitsundays tour business and the passionate crew behind our yellow boats.
For us, sharing the Whitsundays means creating memorable adventures while caring for the islands and reef that make them possible. Receiving recognition for both ecotourism and our day tour experience makes this celebration especially meaningful.
Award-Winning Ecotourism in the Whitsundays
The Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands are at the heart of our adventures. Helping guests understand and appreciate these environments is part of every day on the water.
Our Eco Hosts and Master Reef Guides share their knowledge through stories, conversations and guided experiences. From identifying marine life to explaining how coral reefs function, they help guests build a connection with the places they visit.
That commitment continues behind the scenes. Ocean Rafting contributes to environmental monitoring, research and conservation through initiatives including:
- Eye on the Reef: collecting observations that support understanding of reef health.
- Coral Nurture Program: participating in practical coral stewardship.
- Project Manta Whitsundays: supporting research into manta rays in our region.
- Tins 4 Fins: using container recycling to help fund environmental projects.
Winning the Eco Tourism Award recognises the ongoing work our team puts into combining adventure, education and environmental care.
Learn more about Ocean Rafting’s ecotourism initiatives and reef conservation work.
Best Day Tour/Activity Finalist: Our Whitsundays Adventures
We’re also thrilled to be recognised as a Best Day Tour/Activity finalist for Australia and New Zealand.
Our Whitsundays day tours bring together snorkelling on fringing reefs, visiting Whitehaven Beach and exploring the spectacular scenery of Hill Inlet.
Just as memorable are the people sharing those experiences. Whether helping someone feel comfortable on their first snorkel, answering questions about marine life or sharing a laugh on board, our crew brings personal care and enthusiasm to each adventure.
This finalist recognition celebrates that whole experience, from the first welcome to the memories our guests take home.
Thank You to Our Crew, Guests and Supporters
These achievements belong to the entire Ocean Rafting team, on the water and behind the scenes. Thank you for the preparation, knowledge and care you bring to every day.
To our guests, agents, industry partners, local community and everyone who voted for us, thank you for supporting our family business.
Congratulations to all the 2026 Adventure Tourism Awards winners and finalists. We’re proud to celebrate alongside others who share a passion for adventure tourism.
Ready to discover the Whitsundays with our yellow boat crew? Explore Ocean Rafting’s Whitsundays tours and start planning your adventure.
