This collaboration was initiated by CIT in response to the rapid growth of the turtle tour industry. The goal was to ensure the safety of both guides and visitors, particularly in the dangerous passages where turtle tours are being conducted. Of course the welfare of the turtles, other marine life and their precious ocean home is also of the utmost importance. The MOU's principles, largely driven by the TTOs themselves, prioritise the long-term health of the marine ecosystem and the well-being of guides and guests in the passage.

• Limited Operating Days: To minimise disturbances to the marine environment and respect the wishes of the Aronga Mana, commercial operations are restricted to weekdays only. Weekend operations are not permitted. Any educational or community turtle experiences must be explicitly approved by the Aronga Mana.
• Enhanced Safety Standards: To ensure that TTOs are committed to prioritising guest safety they must:

  Adhere to a strict 4:1 guide-to-guest ratio - This means that for every four guests on a turtle tour, there must be at least one qualified guide. This safety measure is not only a requirement but also a responsible practice that experienced operators would implement regardless.

  Conduct safety briefings - Before each tour, TTOs are obligated to provide comprehensive safety briefings. These briefings should detail the specific conditions of the tour location and outline the risk assessment conducted by the operator. This information empowers guests to make informed decisions and understand what to expect during their experience.

  Have adequate safety and emergency Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) - TTOs must have well considered and practiced SOPs to safeguard both their staff and guests. These procedures outline clear steps to be taken in both everyday operations and various emergency scenarios, ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.

  Attain water safety training certification - All guides participating in turtle tour operations must hold a valid Cook Islands Bronze Medallion certification. This certification, obtained through annual training, ensures that guides possess the necessary water safety skills to safeguard themselves and their guests during tours. Regular renewal of this certification guarantees that guides remain up-to-date on the latest safety protocols and techniques.

• Environmental and Wildlife Stewardship: TTOs must prioritise the well-being of marine life by minimising disturbance and avoiding harmful practices like touching wildlife or using flash photography. This means that touching turtles is prohibited and everyone (guides and guests) must maintain a distance of 3 metres from turtles (where possible), and avoid stepping on or touching coral.

A Collaborative Effort

While CIT has facilitated this partnership, it is important to note that this MOU was created and is driven by the TTOs themselves. By working together, these operators are demonstrating their commitment to responsible tourism and preserving Rarotonga's natural beauty for generations to come.

By choosing a TTO that has signed this MOU, you are contributing to the preservation of Rarotonga's marine environment and supporting sustainable tourism practices.