Sustainability
Where Adventure Meets Regeneration
AquaTerra Boat Tours was founded with a bold vision to redefine marine tourism in South Kerry. Combining authentic experiences with sustainability, it has become a leader in eco-conscious marine adventures, seamlessly blending heritage, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
More than just exploration, every journey with AquaTerra protects Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ireland’s only marine park, and the SKellig Coastline.
By integrating eco-conscious practices and innovative marine tourism, AquaTerra ensures these waters are not only admired but actively safeguarded for generations to come.
AquaTerra Boat Tours is setting a new standard in responsible tourism that values conservation, cultural heritage, and community impact.
Global Sustainability Initiatives & Destination Stewardship
AquaTerra Boat Tours is proud to belong to County Kerry, a place recognised not only for its beauty but also for its leadership in sustainability. In 2025 Kerry was ranked #12 in the world and the top destination in Ireland on the Global Destination Sustainability Index, proof that a small county on the Wild Atlantic Way can stand shoulder to shoulder with world cities when it comes to protecting people, place, and planet.
This achievement was built on the efforts of local communities, businesses, and tourism operators working together with one vision. At AquaTerra, we are part of that effort. Through regenerative tourism we go beyond simply protecting the environment, we focus on restoring ecosystems, celebrating culture, and supporting the communities who call this coastline home.
Innovation with Purpose
AquaTerra is leading the way in eco-conscious boating, with vessels designed to minimise environmental impact while ensuring a world-class marine experience.
The Skellig Bounty is Ireland’s first vessel built under marine survey with a dedicated sustainability plan, setting new standards for the responsible exploration of the Skellig Coast.
The Navigator, our custom-built wheelchair-accessible boat, ensures that everyone can experience the beauty of Valentia Harbour with comfort and ease.
By integrating greener technologies, AquaTerra continues to advance sustainable marine tourism, protecting the waters of Valentia Island, the Skellig Coast and Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara for future generations.
Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals
AquaTerra Boat Tours is committed to responsible tourism that actively supports environmental conservation, community well-being, and sustainable development. Our approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that every journey contributes to a healthier marine environment and a thriving local economy.
From reducing emissions and promoting accessibility to protecting marine biodiversity and fostering responsible tourism, AquaTerra sets a new standard for sustainability in marine tourism. Through ongoing innovation and strategic partnerships, we continue to advance initiatives that enhance Kerry’s Wild Atlantic Way while safeguarding its future.
For more details on AquaTerra’s environmental and responsible tourism initiatives, contact us at info@kerryaquaterra.ie.
Driving Sustainable Tourism Through Collaboration
AquaTerra Boat Tours believes that meaningful collaboration is key to sustainable tourism. By working with local businesses, tourism organisations, and sustainability initiatives, we contribute to a more responsible and resilient tourism industry in South Kerry.
Through these partnerships, we create exceptional visitor experiences while supporting environmental conservation and community well-being, ensuring that tourism benefits both people and place.
Fáilte Ireland’s Climate Action Programme
AquaTerra is proud to be part of Fáilte Ireland’s Climate Action Programme, playing an active role in shaping a more responsible future for marine tourism. This national initiative supports tourism businesses in taking real, practical steps to reduce emissions, use resources more wisely, and protect Ireland’s coastal and marine environment.
At AquaTerra, sustainability is part of how we operate at sea and how we design each experience. Through continued investment in responsible practices and marine conservation, we help ensure these waters remain healthy and protected for the future.
This work is further supported through collaboration with the Local Enterprise Office, ensuring our actions are guided by both local and national expertise.
DIBEST – Sustainable Solutions for Tourism Microenterprises
AquaTerra is proud to participate in DIBEST (Digital Innovation for Blue Enterprises & Social Tourism), an international initiative supporting tourism microenterprises in coastal regions.
Through this collaboration, AquaTerra is enhancing digital innovation, visitor engagement, and sustainable tourism practices, contributing to a broader effort to strengthen coastal communities' economic and environmental resilience.
Kerry Tourism Industry Federation Collaboration
AquaTerra is proud to support the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF), which advocates for sustainable tourism at both the county and national levels.
As a KTIF’s Sustainability Subcommittee member, Elizabeth contributes to initiatives that position Kerry as a leader in responsible and regenerative tourism, ensuring the region’s environmental and cultural heritage is safeguarded.
AquaTerra is also actively involved in Discover Kerry and the Skellig Coast Tourism Group, supporting efforts to showcase the region’s maritime heritage and unique coastal experiences. AquaTerra helps strengthen Kerry’s reputation as a world-class sustainable destination through this collaboration.
Global Partnerships: Collaborating with International Cruise Companies
AquaTerra partners with international cruise operators to provide authentic, immersive shore excursions along the Skellig Coast. These experiences offer guests exclusive access to Valentia Island’s maritime heritage, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural stories, with select trips extending from Dingle to Valentia.
By working closely with cruise companies, AquaTerra ensures that every tour aligns with sustainable tourism principles, supporting local communities while minimising environmental impact. Through small-group, high-quality experiences, we create meaningful connections between global travellers and Ireland’s Atlantic coastline.
Great Lighthouses of Ireland – Preserving Maritime Heritage
AquaTerra is the only active tour provider in Kerry partnered with Great Lighthouses of Ireland, a collective dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Ireland’s iconic coastal beacons.
Through this collaboration, AquaTerra integrates the maritime history of the Skelligs, Cromwell Point, and Inishtearaght Lighthouse into its tours, amplifying awareness of Ireland’s lighthouse heritage while promoting responsible tourism.
By supporting the legacy of these historic sites, AquaTerra ensures that their cultural and environmental significance remains part of Ireland’s coastal identity.
Measurable Action, Lasting Impact
A Commitment to Kerry’s Coast and Its Future
AquaTerra isn’t just preserving Kerry’s marine heritage, it’s shaping a sustainable future. By leading industry change, strengthening partnerships, and championing responsible tourism, AquaTerra ensures that its impact extends far beyond today.
As a National Tour Guide-accredited business, AquaTerra is dedicated to delivering immersive, knowledge-driven experiences that connect visitors with the region’s rich maritime history and delicate ecosystems. Through expert storytelling and education, every journey fosters a deeper appreciation for the land, sea, and heritage of South Kerry.
For more details on AquaTerra’s environmental and responsible tourism initiatives, contact us at info@kerryaquaterra.ie.
Island Sustainable Tourism Action through Resilient SMEs
AquaTerra participated in the I-STARS project, an EU co-funded initiative supporting island-based tourism businesses in their transition to sustainability and resilience. AquaTerra gained valuable expertise in energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and stakeholder engagement through this programme, strengthening its environmental commitments.
By integrating key learnings from I-STARS, AquaTerra continues to enhance sustainability efforts, ensuring responsible tourism practices that benefit both the environment and island communities.
AquaTerra: Shaping the Future of Regenerative & Sustainable Tourism
As part of AquaTerra’s commitment to leading in regenerative tourism, Elizabeth completed a Regenerative Tourism module at Level 9 with Munster Technological University during Autumn/Spring 2025. The course explored how tourism can actively support healthy ecosystems, vibrant communities, and long term sustainability.
The insights gained have been embedded across the business, shaping how AquaTerra designs its experiences, collaborates locally, and plans for lasting impact. This training has reinforced Aqua Terra’s role as a forward-thinking operator creating meaningful change along the Skellig Coast.
Winter Stargazing on the Skellig Coast
Elizabeth and Brendan have completed specialist stargazing training through University College Cork, delivered in partnership with the Skellig Centre for Research and Innovation in Cahersiveen and supported by Kerry County Council. The programme provided practical skills in understanding and reading the night sky, including using the stars for orientation and navigation, while also exploring our place in the Solar System, the wider universe, and the connections between astronomy, archaeology and this coast.
The Skellig Coast sits within the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, one of only a small number of Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserves in the world, recognised for having some of the darkest skies in the Northern Hemisphere. This training allows AquaTerra to offer a thoughtful and carefully guided winter stargazing experience, shaped by this remarkable place and the traditions of seafaring and navigation that belong to it.
Tourism That Learns and Leads
AquaTerra is redefining marine tourism, not just by minimising impact but by actively regenerating the natural and cultural landscapes of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, Valentia Island and the Skellig Coast. Every journey contributes to marine conservation, lower-emission travel, and responsible tourism, ensuring that tourism is a force for restoration and sustainability.
AquaTerra is shaping a future where the sea is explored, protected, and celebrated through innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to responsible travel. Guided by the Leave No Trace principles, we ensure that every journey respects the natural environment, minimises impact, and fosters a greater appreciation for Ireland’s coastal heritage
Driving Sustainability & Innovation
Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and AquaTerra continues to research and adopt the best environmental practices to enhance its marine operations.
AquaTerra ensures that every decision supports the long-term protection of Ireland’s coastal waters by staying at the forefront of sustainable tourism. The company is committed to advancing sustainable tourism best practices and environmental certifications, supporting conservation initiatives that protect biodiversity, and fostering responsible visitor engagement to safeguard Kerry’s coastal beauty.
Award Recognition for Excellence in Tourism
Industry Recognition in Sustainability & Tourism Excellence
In 2026, AquaTerra Boat Tours was named Best Heritage & Coastal Boat Tour Experience – Republic of Ireland by the Global Excellence Awards from Acquisition International Magazine.
The award followed an independent review by their editorial team and reflects the years of work that have gone into building AquaTerra and doing things properly. It recognises the way AquaTerra shares the Skellig Coast through storytelling, heritage and a genuine respect for place, shaped by a small family business rooted in this part of Kerry.
Celebrating Environmental Leadership
In May 2025, AquaTerra Boat Tours was recognised at the Villa Maria Women of Vision Awards, where co-founder Elizabeth Mc Cooey received the Environmental Steward accolade in recognition of her leadership and personal commitment to responsible tourism and marine conservation.
The judges highlighted AquaTerra as a champion of climate-conscious travel, noting the company’s work in protecting the sea, coastline and community that shape everything it does.
Towards a Low-Carbon Future
AquaTerra Boat Tours has been honoured as a finalist in the Green Transformation Awards 2025 – Small Organisation category, one of Ireland’s leading platforms celebrating businesses driving real change for a sustainable future.
This recognition underscores AquaTerra’s impact along Kerry’s coastline, where regenerative tourism, fuel-efficient vessels, and community collaboration are helping Ireland move closer to its sustainability goals. The Green Transformation Awards spotlight organisations pioneering long-term solutions for a low-carbon economy.
A Family Business with Purpose
Building on its reputation in sustainable tourism, AquaTerra Boat Tours has once again been recognised at the Irish Family Business Awards, shortlisted for Sustainable Family Business of the Year for the second consecutive year. This recognition reflects AquaTerra’s commitment to protecting Kerry’s coastline through regenerative practices, fuel-efficient vessels and a strong family ethos, with community and conservation at the heart of the business.
Adding to this, co-founder Elizabeth was also named a finalist in the Rising Star Award at the 2025 ceremony, recognising her leadership and vision in shaping AquaTerra into one of Ireland’s most forward-thinking, sustainability-led tourism businesses.
Progress in Sustainable Tourism
AquaTerra has been recognised for its leadership in sustainable tourism, earning industry accolades highlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility and regenerative tourism.
In 2024, AquaTerra was a finalist in the Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards and was shortlisted for the Sustainable Family Business of the Year Awards, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in responsible marine tourism.
These recognitions reflect AquaTerra’s dedication to eco-conscious initiatives, coastal conservation, and sustainable business practices.
From Biodiversity to Circularity
As part of AquaTerra’s commitment to leading with environmental integrity, Elizabeth completed the Biodiversity Leaders Programme with the Skillnet Climate Ready Academy in Spring 2025. This science-based programme explored how businesses can actively protect and enhance biodiversity while building long-term resilience. Biodiversity is not an add-on at AquaTerra. It is central to how decisions are made, how operations are shaped, and how the marine and coastal environments we depend on are cared for every day.
Building on this foundation, in Autumn 2025 Elizabeth completed the Sustainability Leaders Programme with the Skillnet Climate Ready Academy, delivered in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. This programme supports the development of long-term strategies that keep sustainability embedded at the heart of the business.
In Spring 2026, Elizabeth will also complete the Waste and Circular Economy Leaders Programme, further strengthening AquaTerra’s commitment to responsible resource use, circular thinking and continual improvement.
Together, these programmes reflect an ongoing journey, ensuring AquaTerra continues to lead by example in protecting the seas, the coastline and the community we call home.
