Leading Western Australian tour operator Rottnest Express has been awarded Ecotourism Certification by Ecotourism Australia for each of its three Rottnest Island tours.

Ecotourism certification was awarded to Rottnest Express' Adventure Rottnest Tour, its Underwater Rottnest Tour and Discover Rottnest tour.

Ecotourism Australia's ECO Certification program is designed to assure travellers that certified products are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and provides high quality nature-based tourism experiences.

The ecotourism certification was awarded to the Rottnest Express tours for their optimal use of resources, leaving minimal impact on the environment, and offering interesting ways to learn about the environment, contributing to environmental conservation and helping the local community.

The 90-minute Adventure Tour gives visitors the opportunity to view Rottnest's rugged coastline and wildlife, circumnavigating the island in the purpose-built Eco Express, stopping for wildlife viewing and providing passengers with expert commentary along the way.

The Eco Express is also used for Rottnest Express' Underwater Snorkel Tour, exploring the unique marine environment.

Discover Rottnest provides a complete island tour on the Discovery Bus, capturing as much of the Island's magic as possible. Insightful commentary and several stops along the way allows guests to experience the island's diverse flora, fauna, history and culture.

Rottnest Island is an A Class Reserve with rich biodiversity and Rottnest Express recognises the risks associated with operating in such a pristine environment. The company views environmental responsibility as integral to its business.

Ecotourism Australia is a not for profit organisation focused on inspiring environmentally sustainable and culturally responsible tourism. The organisation designs and delivers certification programs for tourism products, representing more than 500 environmentally responsible ecotourism operators and 1,500 products across Australia.

Rottnest Express is a multi-award-winning business, established for more than 50 years providing world-class ferry services. Operating daily, year-round services, Rottnest Express transports the vast majority of passengers to the island each year - approximately 500,000 people. Rottnest Express is owned by the Experience Australia Group, which also owns a number of iconic Australian tourism businesses including Great Southern Rail and Cruise Whitsunday. Rottnest Express is committed to the safety of its passengers and crew, has an exemplary safety record and is a major contributor to the local community.

For more information visit www.rottnestexpress.com.au or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and YouTube.

Contact:        

Nicole Passarelli, Director of Sales & Marketing, Rottnest Express, nicole@rottnestexpress.com.au, 0488 025 682

Janine Pittaway, Bright Communications, jpittaway@brightcommunications.com.au, 0418911796