In a groundbreaking move toward marine conservation and sustainable tourism, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has partnered with Counting Coral, a prominent non-profit organization, to launch a monumental coral restoration initiative at Castaway Island, Fiji. The launch of the Sculptural Coral Gene Bank, a large-scale, visually striking marine-grade sculpture, marks a major milestone in OUTRIGGER’s ongoing commitment to protecting the delicate ecosystems surrounding its resorts.
Unveiled in June to coincide with World Ocean Month, this transformative project blends science, art, and regenerative tourism, setting a new standard for how the tourism industry can engage with environmental stewardship. This installation is not only a scientific endeavor but also a way to directly involve guests in the restoration process, bringing awareness to the critical need for coral reef protection globally.
As part of the initiative, the coral gene bank will play a crucial role in monitoring and protecting the diverse species of coral essential to reef recovery. The installation process is highly detailed and includes two key phases:
This two-phase process ensures the long-term viability of the coral restoration effort, allowing the coral gene bank to support both immediate reef regeneration and future generations of healthy coral.
The Sculptural Coral Gene Bank will be highly visible and accessible to OUTRIGGER resort guests, offering them the opportunity to witness conservation efforts firsthand. Guests will be able to participate in snorkeling excursions, view educational materials, and learn about the importance of coral reefs and their role in the broader marine ecosystem. By involving visitors directly in the conservation process, the project strengthens the connection between responsible tourism and environmental preservation.
The initiative is part of OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels’ broader commitment to regenerative tourism, a growing movement that focuses on restoring and enhancing natural environments while benefiting local communities. Castaway Island, Fiji, one of OUTRIGGER’s premier private island resorts, has long been recognized for its pristine environment, and this new project further reinforces the resort’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
Coral reefs are critical to the biodiversity of marine ecosystems and are vital to the tourism economy in Fiji, which attracts thousands of visitors annually for its exceptional diving, snorkeling, and marine experiences. In fact, the Great Sea Reef, located off the coast of Fiji, is one of the world’s longest continuous barrier reefs and a key feature of the country’s tourism offerings.
However, coral reefs worldwide face numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. According to the Fiji Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji’s coral reefs are under significant stress, and initiatives like the Sculptural Coral Gene Bank are essential to safeguarding these ecosystems for future generations. The launch of this innovative project is a direct response to these challenges, contributing to the ongoing global efforts to restore and protect coral reefs.
This project is only the beginning of OUTRIGGER’s commitment to coral restoration and regenerative tourism. By creating a model that combines art, science, and tourism, OUTRIGGER is setting a precedent for how the travel industry can actively contribute to the preservation of the planet’s most fragile ecosystems. This initiative also aligns with OUTRIGGER’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing the environmental impact of its operations, protecting natural habitats, and supporting local communities through conservation efforts.
As the project moves into Phase Two in 2026, the Sculptural Coral Gene Bank will continue to evolve, serving as a testament to the power of collaboration between the tourism industry, conservation groups, and local communities. It will also help foster a deeper understanding of the importance of coral reefs among global travelers, encouraging them to make more environmentally conscious decisions when choosing travel destinations.
The partnership between OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels and Counting Coral highlights the growing importance of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship in the travel industry. The Sculptural Coral Gene Bank at Castaway Island, Fiji, represents a bold step forward in coral restoration efforts and serves as an inspiring example of how tourism can be harnessed to protect the environment.
As global travelers continue to seek out destinations that prioritize sustainability, OUTRIGGER’s commitment to preserving the natural wonders of Fiji offers a powerful message for the future of tourism. The success of this initiative will not only benefit Fiji’s coral reefs but also set a new standard for marine conservation in the tourism industry, encouraging other destinations to follow suit in the fight to protect our oceans.
