🌱 How OzSail is Reducing Its Footprint While Exploring the Great Barrier Reef
The Whitsundays is more than just a bucket-list destination — it’s a living, breathing ecosystem at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. And at OzSail, we believe that exploring paradise should never come at the cost of protecting it.
As a long-standing eco-certified operator and proud supporter of marine conservation efforts, we’ve built sustainability into every sail, every snorkel, and every experience on board.
Here’s how we’re working hard behind the scenes (and on deck) to reduce our footprint and leave the reef better than we found it.
✅ Eco-Certified for Over 20 Years
We’re proud to be recognised in the 2025 EcoTourism Australia Hall of Fame, celebrating over two decades of continuous eco-certification.
That means every OzSail and Matador trip is independently assessed to meet the highest environmental and cultural sustainability standards — from how we treat waste to how we educate guests.
We’re also part of the Healthy Heart initiative, reporting key environmental data (like emissions and fuel usage) to help future-proof the Great Barrier Reef.
⛽ Fuel-Efficient Sailing & Engine Practices
Unlike high-emission day boats, our overnight vessels are designed for sailing — and we make the most of it. Our crew uses wind power wherever possible, reducing fuel use and emissions.
Behind the scenes, we also:
- Use 4-stroke outboards on our tenders (far more efficient and lower in emissions)
- Regularly maintain engines for optimal efficiency
- Carefully plan itineraries to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption
🔋 Solar Power at Sea
Both Avatar and Matador are equipped with solar panels, helping to power essential systems on board without relying entirely on fuel-powered generators.
Every bit of solar energy helps us reduce our carbon footprint — and gives our guests a quieter, cleaner experience at anchor.
♻️ Recycling and Waste Reduction On Board
Waste disposal in marine environments is a serious issue, and we’re doing our part to make sure OzSail guests leave nothing but footprints in the sand.
On board, we:
- Separate recycling and general waste after each trip
- Encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles
- Minimise single-use plastics wherever possible
Bulk buy and prepare food thoughtfully to reduce packaging and food waste
🧴 Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Education
We provide and promote reef-safe sunscreen on all our vessels to reduce chemical exposure to coral reefs and marine life.
Our crew also delivers fun but informative environmental briefings, helping guests understand the impact of their choices and the importance of protecting the reef they came to see.
🐠 Supporting Conservation & Community
OzSail is a bronze sponsor of the Whales of the Whitsundays (WoW) program, helping to protect the region’s humpback whale birthing grounds.
We also proudly support:
- Eye on the Reef: With trained crew reporting marine life sightings and reef health directly to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
Marine Parks Permits: All of our tours follow regulated moorings, approved snorkelling sites, and capacity limits to reduce impact
🌎 Travel That Gives Back
Every time you book a tour with OzSail or Matador, you’re not just getting a once-in-a-lifetime sailing trip — you’re contributing to the long-term protection of the reef and islands we call home.
We’re not perfect, but we’re always striving to improve — and we’re proud to be part of a new wave of responsible, conscious tourism in the Whitsundays.
So whether you’re snorkelling vibrant coral gardens, spotting humpbacks in season, or soaking up the sun on deck — you can do it knowing you’re supporting a business that puts the reef first.
Want to sail sustainably with us?
Check out our eco-certified tours and learn how you can travel lighter while experiencing the best of the Whitsundays.