In a significant stride for marine conservation and sustainable tourism, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has collaborated with the non-profit organization Counting Coral to introduce an innovative coral restoration initiative at Castaway Island, Fiji. The centerpiece of this effort is the launch of a visually striking Sculptural Coral Gene Bank, marking the third such installation in Fiji and a first for OUTRIGGER properties.
Debuting in June to coincide with World Ocean Month, this large-scale installation integrates scientific research, artistic design, and regenerative tourism under OUTRIGGER’s broader ocean conservation program.
The marine-grade sculpture, which began its installation in May in the waters surrounding Castaway Island, Fiji, and continued through June, is specifically designed to support the long-term recovery of coral reefs and to educate resort guests on the critical importance of reef preservation. This project underscores OUTRIGGER’s ongoing dedication to restoring and safeguarding the delicate reef ecosystems adjacent to its Fijian resorts.
The coral gene bank, meticulously designed over six months in California and constructed from marine-grade stainless steel, will serve as a sanctuary for over 500 carefully selected “parent” corals, chosen for their genetic resilience. These corals will function as a living seed bank, enabling scientists to monitor, protect, and propagate diverse coral species essential for robust reef recovery.
The installation process involves two primary phases:
- Phase One (May–June): This initial stage focuses on the structural anchoring of the sculpture, followed by the careful selection, surveying, and transplantation of resilient coral species onto the structure.
- Phase Two (2026): The subsequent phase will introduce smaller nursery structures where coral fragments, derived from the original parent stock, will be cultivated. These cultivated fragments will then be transplanted back onto the natural reef, establishing a sustainable cycle of restoration.
This coral restoration program is designed to be highly visible and accessible, offering resort guests a distinctive opportunity to observe conservation efforts firsthand. Through activities like snorkeling excursions and readily available educational materials, guests will be able to directly engage with the initiative, strengthening the connection between tourism and environmental stewardship.
Ben Johnson, Area Director of Sales and Marketing, Fiji Islands at OUTRIGGER Resorts and Hotels, commented, “This partnership with Counting Coral represents a significant milestone in our OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative and our commitment to protecting the environment through responsible tourism. The Sculptural Coral Gene Bank is more than just an installation; it’s a living symbol of our dedication to reef protection through innovation, education, and guest engagement.”
Brooke True, Executive Director of Counting Coral, added, “Coral reefs are not only vital to Fiji’s marine ecosystems but also central to the local economy. By joining forces with OUTRIGGER and Castaway Island, Fiji, we are creating a unique restoration site that combines science and sculpture to inspire guests and ensure the long-term protection of coral ecosystems.”
This collaborative endeavor reinforces OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels’ leadership in regenerative tourism and highlights Castaway Island’s ongoing commitment to preserving the natural wonders that make it one of Fiji’s most cherished private island resorts.
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