Marine Tourism 9.
Marine tourism involves a diverse range of marine-related tourism activities.
Vessel-based activity includes whale and dolphin watching, diving and snorkelling, parasailing, observation by glass bottomed boats and underwater observatories, crewed and bareboat cruising, fishing charters, helicopter and aircraft tours, boat hire, and cruise shipping to personal water vehicles. Vessel design and technology is leading edge and often is part of an export-based shipbuilding industry. Shore-based activity, apart from swimming and surfing, includes whale, seal and dolphin viewing. Also, significant onshore facilities are required by way of ports and marinas, while marine tourism is often associated with major resorts, and on-land transport facilities. The Australian industry provides high quality experiences, with interpretation across the market spectrum, from mass tourism to ecotourism.