Sustainability at Polperro
Our Ethos
he Bay is part of a connected marine ecosystem that supports an extraordinary diversity of life. Its health is closely linked to our own, which is why we believe protecting the environment begins with the choices we make every day.
At Polperro, sustainability is more than a policy—it is a core value that guides everything we do. We are committed to the principle of thinking globally and acting locally, continually reviewing our operations and embracing new opportunities to reduce our environmental impact. As knowledge, technology and best practices evolve, we strive to adapt and choose the most sustainable path available.
By fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world, we hope to inspire a greater understanding of the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship for future generations.
Before Your Tour
Small actions can make a big difference. Here are a few simple ways you can help us protect the Bay during your visit.
Choose Reef-Safe Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun is important, but it’s also important to consider the impact sunscreen can have on marine environments. If possible, choose a reef-safe sunscreen before your tour. Our crew often opt for long sleeves, rash vests and wide-brimmed hats to reduce the amount of sunscreen they need to use while out on the water.
Reduce Single-Use Waste
We encourage guests to minimise the amount of single-use plastic they bring on board. Our crew follow a “nude food” approach wherever possible, choosing reusable containers and avoiding unnecessary packaging. The less waste we generate, the better.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential, especially on sunny days. We do not sell bottled water on board, so we recommend bringing a reusable water bottle with you. Fresh drinking water is always available on the vessel, and we also carry reusable cups if you forget your bottle.
Together, these small choices help reduce our environmental footprint and contribute to the ongoing protection of the marine ecosystem we all enjoy.
Our Sustainability Journey
ustainability has been embedded in our business since the very beginning. Long before Polperro Dolphin Swims was established, founders Judith and Tony Muir were implementing practical energy-efficiency measures while operating vessels in remote offshore environments throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Working in these conditions required careful resource management, a commitment to minimising waste, and a deep respect for the natural environment.
More than 50 years later, those same principles continue to guide our operations. From the way we conduct our tours to the decisions we make behind the scenes, we remain dedicated to protecting the marine environment that makes our experiences possible.
Recognition and Accreditation
Polperro’s commitment to sustainable tourism has been recognised through numerous regional, state and national awards and accreditation programs.
2025 National Banksia Sustainability Awards Finalist
In 2025, Polperro was selected as a finalist in the National Banksia Sustainability Awards, one of Australia’s most prestigious sustainability programs. The awards recognise organisations that demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices, community engagement and conservation outcomes.
Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame
Polperro was inducted into the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame after multiple wins in the Environmental Tourism category, recognising our long-standing commitment to environmentally responsible tourism.
Sustainability Certifications
Polperro is proud to hold a number of industry-leading sustainability accreditations, including: • Advanced Ecotourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia
- Green Travel Leader status through Ecotourism Australia
- Sustainable Tourism Accreditation through the Australian Tourism Industry Council
These programs require ongoing assessment and continual improvement across environmental, cultural, social and economic sustainability practices.
Working Towards Carbon Neutrality
Polperro has set the goal of being carbon neutral by 2025. We are currently collecting all the data to accurately measure our carbon footprint. We have engaged Carbon Neutral and will offset emissions through their ‘Yarra Yarra Biodiversity Corridor Project’ in Western Australia. This project is certified under the prestigious Gold Standard accreditation, a globally recognised best-practice benchmark for genuine emission-reduction projects that deliver long-term, sustainable development.
Sustainability in the community
One of Polperro’s core goals is to connect the community to life below water, the greater catchment area and, in turn, each other. Alongside our wildlife experiences, we develop and support community and education initiatives that encourage a “think global, act local” mindset while providing practical pathways for environmental action. Through partnerships with schools, community groups, researchers and conservation organisations, we aim to build environmental awareness and support positive change across our region.