Maria Island Ecotourism Development Feasibility ... - TRC Tourism

Core ElementStrength of Current MariaIsland Experienceat Penitentiary andcamping groundsLow endaccommodation onisland has appeal toschool groups andlarge family groupsHeritage buildingscan be upgraded toallow for additionalaccommodation inkeeping with theconservationmanagement planTransport and Access Established ferryoperationsUpgraded wharfinfrastructure atTriabunna andDarlington willsupport visitation toMaria Island.Weakness Desired Experience Potential Strategies to Optimisesmall marketSeasonalfluctuationsLimited amenitiesLow yield productthat is presentedbelow market ratesLogistical issues fortransferringluggageNo basic suppliesReliability, capacityand timetable ofcurrent ferrySize of and type ofvesselsCompetingoperators/confusion inmarketWharfinfrastructure hadnot been designedeasy access to andfrom vesselIntegrated servicesLack ofinfrastructure tosupport less mobilein and aroundrange of markets and arelinked to the experiences onoffer.New stand-alone eco lodgedeveloped in EncampmentCove area to service multi daywalkers on coastal circuittrackNew reliable, high qualitypassenger and freight servicetransports visitors to twopoints on the island –Darlington and EncampmentCove to service coastal circuitWharf infrastructure supportseasy passenger and freighttransferAddress low and shoulder seasons byoffering to school groupsProvide purchasable supplies.Package accommodation andexperiences with local operators andsuppliers in TriabunnaUpgrade heritage buildings and providefor accommodation that meets targetmarket’s needs.Provide luggage transfer serviceUpgrade amenities and other serviceinfrastructureStanding camps provided along coastaltrack for soft adventure programs –kayak, cycle , walk.Establish new high quality ferryoperationProvide Integrated booking serviceLuggage transfer to accommodationConstruct second jettyReview current jetty upgrade atDarlingtonOpportunity to create a potential visitorhub (gateway) for Maria Island.Provide for people with limited mobilityMaria Island Ecotourism Development Feasibility Study 32