MOONSHADOW-TQC Cruises are not newbies when it comes to winning tourism awards, and they did it again at two separate events last week.
The award for Best Tourism Experience at the 2025 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards was presented during the awards gala event held on Monday 19 May at the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club.
Recognized for delivering exceptional and innovative visitor experiences, Moonshadow-TQC Cruises offers a diverse range of tours, including dolphin and whale watching, Broughton Island cruises, historical cruises, and private charters.
With over 40 years of operation and a fleet of six vessels, the company has established itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, holding Advanced Eco Certification since 2001 and achieving Hall of Fame status with Ecotourism Australia for 20 years of dedication to environmental conservation.
Newcastle Tourism Industry Group’s (NTIG) 2025 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards recognised exceptional talent, dedication and achievements across 12 categories, capturing the breadth of our local visitor economy.
Sean Andrews, Business Development Manager for Moonshadow-TQC Cruises said, “We’re incredibly honoured to receive the award for Best Tourism Experience.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team, who go above and beyond every day to deliver memorable experiences on the waters of Port Stephens.
“Our commitment to showcasing the natural beauty of this region while supporting the local economy and protecting marine life has been at the heart of our operation for over 40 years.
“We’re proud to represent Port Stephens and share its magic with the visitors from all over the world.”
The Nelson Bay tour operator was also honoured with another accolade on Tuesday 20 May 2025 at The Langham luxury hotel on the Gold Coast.
Moonshadow was awarded Best Commercial Marine Tourism Operator during the Australian Marine Industry Awards Gala Dinner, a signature event of the Australian Superyacht Conference 2025, which welcomed 264 guests from across Australia and around the world.
Created to celebrate the outstanding dedication, excellence and innovation driving Australia’s world-class marine industry, the Awards recognised eleven exceptional winners across the superyacht, commercial and export sectors. This year’s Awards program attracted a record number of entries, reflecting the industry’s continued growth and ambition.
Janene Rees, International Sales Manager from Moonshadow-TQC Cruises said, “I am incredibly proud to accept this award and to see Moonshadow TQC’s hard work and dedication recognised by this incredible Australian marine community.
“I am genuinely blown away by the energy, the momentum and the sense of purpose in the room and it is such a privilege to be a part of this dynamic and booming industry.
“With the excellence in which AIMEX, Superyacht Australia and ACMG are improving the skills and insight within the marine sector, we are not only enhancing the operations of businesses like Moonshadow TQC, but are also making Australia even more attractive to international visitors.”
By Simon EKINS
