Thursday, October 23, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

SeaLink Whitsundays Dominates 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards

The SeaLink Whitsundays brands have once again cemented their position at the forefront of Australian tourism, claiming four major accolades at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards. Whitsunday Jetski Tours led the charge, taking out Gold for Best Day Tour – Water, in a standout result across water and land tour categories.
This headline win builds on recent momentum for the jetski brand, which was named the world’s No. 1 tourism experience in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Best of the Best Awards.
“We’re absolutely thrilled for the team, who deserve every one of those five-star reviews,” said Operations Manager Nathan Linnell. “It’s a well-earned recognition of their hard work and passion. Nights like this make you realise how lucky we are to work with such a dedicated, adventurous and fun crew.”
Alongside Whitsunday Jetski Tours’ success, SeaLink Whitsundays’ performance marked a clean sweep across key categories:
• Whitsunday Jetski Tours – Gold, Best Day Tour – Water
• Red Cat Adventures – Silver, Best Day Tour – Water
• SeaLink Whitsundays – Bronze, Best Day Tour – Water
• Red Cat Adventures – Bronze, Best Day Tour – Land
These accolades are particularly significant as they are based on customer satisfaction data and guest feedback, reflecting the group’s dedication to exceptional service and memorable experiences.
“This recognition reflects the strength and heart of our teams across the wider SeaLink Marine and Tourism family,” said SeaLink General Manager Asher Telford. “What makes it extra special is that these results come from our guests and community. They’re the reason we show up and do what we love every single day.”
Operating in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, SeaLink’s success mirrors the Whitsundays’ standing as a global tourism hotspot. Home to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach and pristine island waters, the region remains a bucket-list experience for travellers worldwide.
Red Cat Adventures has built an outstanding reputation, highlighted by four Gold medals at the National Australian Tourism Awards and induction into the Queensland Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.
“We’ve been fortunate to win a few awards over the years, but nights like this are always a proud moment especially for our crew,” said Asher.
Eight team members attended the awards night in Proserpine, with a wider celebration planned to recognise staff across all brands.
“We’ll be keeping the good vibes going this Friday with a celebration for all our wider teams from Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays, Hayman Island water sports because these wins belong to everyone,” Asher said.
When asked what sets the group apart, the answer was unanimous: people.
“We’re extremely grateful to our agents, suppliers, and industry partners, along with the wider Whitsundays community, for their ongoing support and collaboration,” Asher said.
“Most of all, we’d like to thank our incredible staff and crew for their dedication, as well as our amazing customers who choose to travel with us and share their experiences. This recognition is a true reflection of everyone who contributes to making our tours the best in the Whitsundays.
“Whether it’s riding a jetski, a sailing trip, a Whitehaven Beach tour, or a snorkelling adventure to the Great Barrier Reef, we ensure every experience is safe, fun and unforgettable.”
SeaLink Whitsundays takes its environmental responsibilities seriously, holding Advanced ECO Certification and Climate Action Leader status, and actively participating in reef conservation, seagrass monitoring, community initiatives and local training programs.
“Behind the scenes, there’s a huge amount of heart that goes into what we do, from supporting marine conservation to backing local events and student training programs. We’re always looking for ways to give back to the region that’s given us so much,” Asher said.

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