Aquascene Magnetic Island named one of TripAdvisor's best activities in the world

International borders might be closed, but a Townsville operator's latest accolade proves Queensland has world-class experiences right on its doorstep, with Aquascene Charters Magnetic Island being named as one of only two Australian businesses in the recent TripAdvisor’s Travellers Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Awards.

Recognising the best activities you can do around the world, as voted by traveller reviews, TripAdvisor’s 2021 winners included only one other Australian experience on the list.

Aquascene Charters specialises in tours around North Queensland’s Magnetic Island, taking people to secluded bays, beaches and fringing reef to snorkel and interact with marine life, while sharing stories of the island’s rich cultural and environmental history.

Owner/operator Stephanie Hinks said being named alongside international operators of such a high calibre came as an absolute shock.

“We were stunned that our little family business had made such a big list and is being acknowledged by a global brand like TripAdvisor,” Ms Hinks said.

“Sharing our passion for Magnetic Island and educating tourists on the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding natural environment is so important to us, and I think by travellers choosing us it continues to show us how important eco-tourism experiences are, and how transformative they can be - we are proud to play a small part of that.”

Townsville Enterprise Director Visitor Economy and Marketing, Lisa Woolfe said recognition of this level would help elevate the profile of North Queensland and build on the work being done to support the industry through the COVID-19 recovery.

“Wins like this bolster our vision to put Townsville North Queensland and Magnetic Island on the global stage and help better prepare our region to rebound even faster when domestic and international borders reopen.”

Planning a trip to Magnetic Island? Check out these things to do while you're there.