This month we are celebrating sustainability and featuring a few of our partners that we feel display exemplary measures to reduce their footprint on our precious environment. Discover how these suppliers are shaping the future of travel with eco-conscious practices and community engagement, allowing us to explore the many wonders of Australia responsibly.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Capella Lodge
Location: Lord Howe Island
Capella Lodge located on the stunning Lord Howe Island, is part of the Baillie Lodges collection and a Luxury Lodges of Australia property. Lord Howe Island’s visitors are capped at 400 to protect the fragile ecosystem. Capella lodge is committed to sustainability with various initiatives and environmental management policies aligned with the island’s World Heritage status to further preserve the island’s integrity. The boutique accommodation engages in ongoing reforestation efforts, planting endemic species to prevent erosion and sustain biodiversity. Energy conservation measures are paramount, with architectural designs optimising natural weather patterns, 40 solar panels contributing to renewable energy goals, and energy-efficient systems throughout the property.
Waste management at Capella Lodge prioritises extensive recycling and eco-friendly practices, including composting and biodegradable cleaning products. Water conservation is achieved through rainwater harvesting 75% of the lodge’s water needs. These efforts underscore Baillie Lodges’ dedication to sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal environmental impact while offering guests a luxurious and enriching experience that minimises their environmental footprint.
QUEENSLAND
Sailaway Port Douglas – World’s First E Tender Glass Bottom Boat
Location: Port Douglas
Advanced Eco accredited and Climate Action leader Sailaway Port Douglas, has introduced the world’s first E Tender Glass Bottom Boat, named “Off Grid – On Reef,” marking a significant leap in eco-tourism innovation. This 22-passenger vessel operates entirely on renewable energy generated by solar panels and wind turbines, showcasing Sailaway’s commitment to sustainability. Designed with Torqeedo technology, the boat offers quiet and non-intrusive tours for observing marine life, particularly turtles, while meeting rigorous AMSA safety standards.
Since 2013, Sailaway has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability by harnessing wind power for their luxury sailing catamarans and offsetting carbon emissions through local tree planting projects. With the introduction of their fully electric tender, Sailaway remains at the forefront of eco-tourism innovation, offering guests sustainable and immersive experiences on the Great Barrier Reef.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Murray River Trails
Location: Paringa, South Australia
Our partners at Murray River Trails offer guided access to the remote parts of the Murray River featuring a multiday walking tour and a safari tour with kayaking. Both tours feature the region’s beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife and luxury houseboat accommodation.
Owner Tony Sharley is an Environmental Scientist and a river champion, and the concept of their Advanced Ecotourism Certified operation was born following a severe drought in the area. He wanted to help diversify the regional economy by giving back to the river through regenerative tourism.
In designing the touring routes several sustainability measures were implemented including a natural “on animal tracks” walking route instead of a constructed physical trail. Small group tours leave a small footprint, and the luxury houseboat ‘High River’ comfortably hosts up to 10 people. The boat operates on renewable energy from 52 solar panels eliminating the need for a noisy diesel generator. Superb locally grown food and wines are served aboard.
We especially love this experience because couples with varying fitness levels can both enjoy the Murray River. Less active partners can spend the day cruising on the houseboat while more active partners explore the walking trail or safari route, returning to the houseboat for the evenings.
QUEENSLAND
Lizard Island
Location: Queensland
Owner Tony Sharley is an Environmental Scientist and a river champion, and the concept of their Advanced Ecotourism Certified operation was born following a severe drought in the area. He wanted to help diversify the regional economy by giving back to the river through regenerative tourism.
In designing the touring routes several sustainability measures were implemented including a natural “on animal tracks” walking route instead of a constructed physical trail. Small group tours leave a small footprint, and the luxury houseboat ‘High River’ comfortably hosts up to 10 people. The boat operates on renewable energy from 52 solar panels eliminating the need for a noisy diesel generator. Superb locally grown food and wines are served aboard.
We especially love this experience because couples with varying fitness levels can both enjoy the Murray River. Less active partners can spend the day cruising on the houseboat while more active partners explore the walking trail or safari route, returning to the houseboat for the evenings.
Expand your Australian Bucket list!
Reach out to our team for more information on any of the features experiences.