Destination-based approach to comparing reef tourism destinations: the case of Australia’s GBR and the Caribbean

Abstract

Marine and coastal environments are areas of particularly high tourism interest. The "Four Ss" (sand, surf, sun, and sex) of coastal tourism are well known and are an important draw-card to millions of tourists each year, representing a global industry estimated to be worth US$30 billion annually (World Resources Institute [WRIJ, 2006). Within the context of coastal and marine tourism, coral reefs play an important role as an attraction for day visitors, divers, snorkelers, sailors, and for nonswimmers through the medium of glass-bottom boats and underwater viewing chambers. In some areas of the world, reef tourism is the largest national and/or regional income earner and one of the largest employers. The map shown in Figure 15.1 highlights the world's main reef tourism destinations, providing an overview of the geographic location of coral reefs.