OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has launched a major coral restoration project at Castaway Island, Fiji. This effort, called the Sculptural Coral Gene Bank Fiji, is part of a global movement to protect coral reefs in key locations like Fiji, Tahiti, and the Maldives. The project combines science, art, and tourism to help restore fragile marine ecosystems near OUTRIGGER resorts.
The Sculptural Coral Gene Bank was unveiled in June to mark World Ocean Month. This large marine-grade sculpture is not only visually striking but also serves as a living coral “seed bank.” Made of marine-grade stainless steel, the structure was designed over six months in California and installed between May and June. It houses over 500 parent corals, chosen for their genetic diversity and strength. These corals form the base for ongoing reef recovery efforts.
The coral gene bank project is divided into two phases. The first phase, completed this year, focused on anchoring the sculpture, selecting resilient coral species, and transplanting them onto the structure. The next phase, set for 2026, will introduce smaller nursery structures. These will nurture coral fragments from the parent corals and help replant them onto the surrounding reef. This two-step approach aims to ensure coral restoration that lasts for generations.
Guests at OUTRIGGER’s Castaway Island resort will have the chance to see this conservation work up close. They can join snorkeling tours to view the sculpture and learn about coral reefs through educational materials. This direct involvement helps visitors understand the critical role coral reefs play in marine life and local communities. It also ties responsible tourism with protecting natural resources.
Ben Johnson, OUTRIGGER’s Area Director of Sales and Marketing for Fiji, expressed excitement about the project. He said the Coral Gene Bank Fiji is more than just a sculpture—it represents OUTRIGGER’s strong commitment to reef protection through innovation and education.
This project is a collaboration with Counting Coral, a well-known nonprofit focused on coral restoration. Brooke True, Executive Director of Counting Coral, emphasized the importance of this partnership. She noted that coral reefs are vital to both Fiji’s environment and its economy. Combining science with art, this installation aims to inspire guests and support long-term reef health.
OUTRIGGER’s coral restoration initiative aligns with the wider trend of regenerative tourism. This approach not only reduces harm but also improves the natural environment while benefiting local communities. Castaway Island, a private resort known for its pristine surroundings, strengthens its environmental focus with this project.
Coral reefs are crucial to Fiji’s tourism. The country draws thousands of visitors yearly who come to dive, snorkel, and explore marine life. Fiji’s Great Sea Reef, one of the longest barrier reefs in the world, is a key attraction. Yet, like reefs worldwide, Fiji’s coral faces serious threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. The Fiji Ministry of Fisheries highlights that these reefs are under great pressure. Projects like the Sculptural Coral Gene Bank Fiji are essential to safeguard these ecosystems for the future.
Looking ahead, OUTRIGGER plans to continue expanding its coral restoration efforts. The project sets a new example for the travel industry by mixing art, science, and guest participation. It also supports OUTRIGGER’s sustainability goals, which include reducing environmental impact, protecting natural habitats, and helping local communities through conservation.
When the project moves into its second phase in 2026, the coral gene bank will grow with new nursery structures. This growth will help coral reefs recover and thrive. The initiative also raises global awareness about coral reef importance. It encourages travelers to make eco-friendly choices when planning trips.
OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels’ partnership with Counting Coral is a strong message for sustainable tourism. The Coral Gene Bank Fiji shows how tourism can actively aid environmental protection. As travelers seek destinations that care for the planet, OUTRIGGER’s work in Fiji stands as a model. This project not only helps Fiji’s coral reefs but also pushes the tourism industry toward stronger marine conservation worldwide.
