André MacLaughlin, Chief Operations Officer, explains,“When Ocean Capital Group took over, the company already had two 400-seat catamarans, and a floating pontoon located 40 kilometers offshore from Cairns at Moore Reef. These assets formed the foundation of our operations. From there, we’ve continuously innovated and grown.” In 2017, the company introduced a cutting-edge pontoon, complete with the only water slide on the Great Barrier Reef, marking a significant enhancement to its offerings.“We added a second semi-submersible in 2020, and in 2022, we acquired a 180-seat vessel to expand our Fitzroy Island operations,” Ms MacLaughlin continues. The expansion didn’t stop there. “In 2023, we purchased a 34m catamaran to launch our Reef & Island Day Tour, broadening our reach and diversifying our experiences.” Cairns, often called the jewel of inbound tourism to Australia, plays a pivotal role in Sunlover’s success. Brian Hennessy, Senior Manager of International Sales, emphasizes,“Cairns is one of the most visited areas in the country for international travelers, second only to Sydney and Melbourne. And within Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef is the top destination on everyone’s list.” The company’s operations directly reflect the pulse of international tourism. Hennessy describes their unique perspective: “We’re at the heart of inbound tourism. The Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list experience for travelers worldwide, making us a strong indicator of global travel trends. When international tourism thrives, we feel the impact immediately—and when it slows, we feel that just as quickly.” Sunlover’s ability to adapt to shifts in tourism demand has been a defining characteristic. From launching premium day tours complete with buffet lunches provided by Fitzroy Island Resort to introducing smaller vessels for niche experiences, the company has consistently responded to the evolving preferences of travelers. “In regard to Fitzroy Island, we’re no longer just about transfers,” says Ms MacLaughlin.“We’re about creating full-day, immersive experiences that highlight the beauty and wonder of the reef and surrounding islands.” A DIVERSE OFFERING ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF Operating in one of the most sought-after destinations in the world requires a finely tuned balance of capacity, variety, and customer experience. Sunlover Reef Cruises has embraced this challenge, creating a multifaceted operation that caters to international travelers, families, and even educational groups. Photo Credit: Calypso Productions 83 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01 SUNLOVER REEF CRUISES
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