Great deal: New membership gives special access to locals

Award-winning Whitsunday business launches initiative to show there is 'light at the end of the tunnel'.

Ocean Rafting has just launched a new membership offer for locals. . Picture: Contributed

AS A WAY to thank Whitsunday residents who have supported award-winning tourism operator Ocean Rafting, the business has launched a new membership program for locals.

The Rafting Squad, which launched on April 30, provides local members access to benefits all year round, including 20 per cent off Ocean Rafting products for the member and three friends, and a free tour for their birthday.

Ocean Rafting owner Jan Claxton said the team had been working on the Rafting Squad for some time. 

"But it seemed like the right time to launch it as we are hopefully returning closer to the "new" normal," she said.

"The locals have always supported us, as we have them, so we wanted to offer something to shine a little light towards the end of this tunnel. 

"Even though we can't operate now, the time will come where we can, so locals can join up now and dream about soon getting back out into the fresh air and exploring their beautiful backyard with some amazing deals."

Ocean Rafting operates two day tour options to some of the Whitsunday's most desirable destinations.

The Northern Exposure and Southern Lights tours offer an exhilarating ride to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, pristine snorkelling reefs and guided Whitsunday Island National Parks walks. 

Ocean Rafting has special permits allowing access to Hill Inlet beach itself, which adds to the uniqueness of the tours, being the only operator offering lunch and time to relax on the famous sands of Hill Inlet.

Ocean Rafting also operates scenic flights and Fly and Raft packages, offering the best views from above, on and below the water.

For locals travelling north to Tropical North Queensland, the 20 per cent off year-round discount is also redeemable for Ocean Rafting's sister company, Ocean Safari.

Ocean Safari offers an exhilarating half day eco tour to snorkel the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef off the Daintree Coast.

Rafting Squad discounts are available for residents living in the Whitsunday Regional Council shire, with post codes between 4800 and 4805. 

Members will receive a Rafting Squad membership card once the application is submitted and proof of a local residential address and ID is provided.

To sign up to the Rafting Squad and for full terms and conditions, visit the Ocean Rafting website.