WELCOME TO ECO HQ EDUCATION CENTRE
Discover the world of grassroots marine conservation on an immersive eco tour and see how Eco Barge and our community are working to protect the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
Eco Experience Whitsundays offers exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at Eco HQ, giving visitors a unique chance to see marine debris recovery, recycling initiatives, and sea turtle rescue in action.
All public tour bookings are operated by Eco Experience Whitsundays, who proudly partner with Eco Barge to support our conservation work and community programs. Learn more.
school groups & educational workshops
Eco Barge Clean Seas offers specialised experiences and educational workshops for school groups. Learn more about our education offerings here.
Please contact Libby via libby@ecobarge.org.au to inquire.
We believe everyone can make waves — are you ready to dive in?
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
WELCOME TO ECO HQ
Start the day learning about our local marine environment in & the history of how Eco Barge helps keep our seas clean, right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
DIVE INTO ACTION
Lend a helping hand in sorting & recycling our marine debris to understand what happens to all our rubbish.
RECYCLING 101
Take a crash course in recycling plastic, seeing how we transform trash into treasure in the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack.
SEA TURTLE RESCUE
Learn about the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where we care for sick and injured marine turtles in the Whitsunday region.
frequently asked questions
Will I see a sea turtle during the tour?
If we do have sea turtles in our care, our first priority is keeping the sea turtle in an optimal environment for recovery. This means we will not be able to have visitors see turtles that are injured or distressed. If we have a sea turtle that is suitable for the tour, you’ll be able to see the turtle from a safe distance.
What should I wear?
Wear enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Part of the tour will be outdoors, so you may want to wear sun safe clothing.
How do I get there?
Transportation is included with the tour through Eco Experience Whitsundays. Please confirm your pickup/drop-off location with Eco Experience Whitsundays at book@ecowhitsundays.com
Will we be going out on the boat?
No, this tour is of our education centre at Eco HQ in Airlie Beach. If you’d like to sign up for a boat trip, you can register as a volunteer here and we’ll notify you via email when a barge trip is planned.
Can I take photos?
Absolutely! We only ask that you do not take photos of any sea turtles in care, and that you tag us in any social posts @ecobargecleanseas
Is there an age limit?
No, there is not an age limit. All are welcome!
Is Eco HQ wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, our facilities are not fully wheelchair accessible at this time. Our recycle room and turtle centre are wheelchair accessible. Please contact Libby (libby@ecobargecleanseas.org.au) if you require accommodations.
We are working on making improvements to our facilities and plan to be fully accessible in the future.
Will food be provided?
Food is not included in the price of the eco tour. Water fill stations are available, so bring your reusable water bottle.
