Mars Coral Reef
Restoration

In an exciting evolution of coral reef restoration, Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel, in collaboration with Mars Sustainable Solutions has introduced a new approach known as Reef Recovery Days — a condensed version of the traditional MARRS (Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System) build to the GBR, Australia. Designed to fit into a single day, these five-hour sessions provide a condensed version of a MARRS restoration build into a timeframe that seamlessly integrates with existing marine tourism operations. 

One of the most compelling features of Reef Recovery Days is how they align with the regular activities of tourism operators, particularly those running boats out to reef sites several times a week. By condensing the full suite of restoration activities — from preparing and tying coral fragments to deploying the Reef Stars (RS) underwater — into a five-hour window, Mars has created a flexible model that works in real time with the rhythms of the local tourism industry. 

This compatibility with commercial operations means restoration no longer has to be a separate, isolated endeavour. Instead, it becomes part of the everyday flow of activity on the reef — making it easier to implement regularly, more cost-effective, and more scalable. 

Another powerful feature of Reef Recovery Days is their inclusive, hands-on format. These events provide a rare opportunity for the public to engage directly in coral reef restoration. Participants can help tie coral fragments onto Reef Stars and even witness their placement on the seabed, gaining firsthand experience in the restoration process. 

This approach not only enhances transparency but also fosters a deeper connection between people and the marine environment. By involving tourists and community members in the process, Mars is helping to cultivate a sense of shared responsibility and stewardship for coral reefs — ecosystems that are increasingly under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. 

Beyond public engagement, Reef Recovery Days have proven to be a valuable platform for training and outreach. The format offers marine scientists, dive professionals, and conservation volunteers the chance to learn the MARRS technique in a short, intensive setting. With coral restoration becoming a critical global priority, these sessions are an effective way to build local capacity and spread best practices quickly. 

Reef Recovery Days reflect a thoughtful reimagining of how reef restoration can be done by everyday people in real time, within the flow of their normal activities. By integrating restoration into tourism and opening the door for even more community involvement, Mars is not only rebuilding coral reefs — it’s rebuilding relationships between people and the ocean. 

This innovative model may well become a template for future conservation efforts around the world: efficient, inclusive, and impactful. 

To find out more, please visit: Reef Recovery Day | Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel Cairns