A new report from Hilton has confirmed what many travellers already feel – the future of travel is about more than where you go; it's about why you go. The rise of the “whycation” highlights a growing desire for intentional experiences that nurture rest, connection and meaning.

The report, based on a survey of more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries (conducted with Ipsos iSay), found that the top motivations for leisure travel in 2026 are:

• Rest and recharge (56%)
• Spending time in nature (37%)

• Improving mental health (36%)

A shift toward “hushpitality” is also emerging, with travellers seeking destinations that allow them to slow down, reduce distractions, and enjoy quiet as part of their wellness journey.

The Journey Becomes the Experience

At SeaLink Marine & Tourism, the why has always been at the heart of what we do. Whether it's reconnecting with nature, deepening cultural understanding, or creating shared family memories, SeaLink journeys are designed to be as meaningful as the destinations themselves.

“Today's traveller wants more than just a holiday, they're looking for connection, authenticity and purpose,” said Phil Boyle, Executive General Manager, Customer, Sales and Marketing, SeaLink Marine & Tourism.

“That's exactly what our experiences deliver, from ferry crossings that feel like an adventure in themselves to tours that immerse you in culture, nature and community. A 'whycation' with SeaLink is about making travel truly meaningful,” Mr Boyle continued.

With ferries, tours and island escapes across Australia, SeaLink makes the journey part of the story. Travellers on the Pacific Coast Way can immerse themselves in an Island Vibes road trip—complete with a dedicated Spotify playlist—connecting road trippers to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), K'gari (Fraser Island), Magnetic Island and the Whitsundays. A SeaLink ferry ride itself becomes part of the adventure, offering a chance to slow down, take in the salt air and scenery, and begin to reconnect before even stepping ashore at their destination.

SeaLink Experiences Across Australia

• Whitsundays & Airlie Beach, QLD – beach vibes, snorkelling, sailing, and award-winning jet ski adventures at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

• K'gari (Fraser Island), QLD – World Heritage rainforests, lakes and cultural storytelling on the world's largest sand island, including Illumina, the island's permanent laser light installation.
• Magnetic Island, QLD – tropical charm, WWII history and snorkel trails blending reef and heritage.
• North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), QLD – rich Indigenous cultural tour, pristine beaches and coastal walks.
• Sydney Harbour, NSW – iconic cruises showcasing one of the world's most famous harbours.
• Kangaroo Island, SA – where wildlife, rugged coastlines and local produce make every crossing a gateway to discovery.
• Bruny Island, TAS – wild coastlines, fine produce and a ferry crossing that feels like a step back in time.
• Rottnest Island, WA – quokkas, pristine beaches, and cycling roads less travelled.

• Tiwi Islands, NT – authentic On Country experiences celebrating art, culture, and sport.

Travel with Purpose

Across Australia, many SeaLink experiences are Ecotourism Australia ECO Certified, from Advanced certification for SeaLink Whitsundays' island tours and SeaLink K'gari's (Fraser Island) cultural and environmental programs, to Red Cat Adventures' Climate Action Leader status. Beyond certification, we actively support reef restoration, wildlife conservation and cultural engagement, including:

• Sponsoring Kangaroo Island's Dolphin Watch program and supporting scientists studying local marine environments.
• Supporting reef monitoring and conservation through Whitsunday Jet Ski Tours, Red Cat Adventures and Magnetic Island programs working with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation's Reef Trust and community action grants.
• Supporting the Seabin project in Sydney Harbour, filtering out plastics, microplastics and surface pollutants to protect the harbour's marine environment.

• Partnering with EcoSurf Australia, Keep Australia Beautiful WA, and local community groups in regular beach clean-ups on Rottnest Island to protect fragile marine environments and coastlines.

By embedding sustainability into every journey, SeaLink ensures travellers can explore Australia's most iconic destinations while knowing their experience contributes to lasting positive impact, furthering the why.

Your Whycation Starts Here

Whether it's a nostalgic road trip, a solo recharge, or a family journey that sparks wonder, SeaLink helps travellers find their why—and make it unforgettable.

Book your SeaLink experience directly:

• Whitsundays & Airlie Beach: com.au/whitsundays/, redcatadventures.com.au/, jetskitour.com.au/ 
• K'gari (Fraser Island): com.au/kgari-fraser-island/
• Magnetic Island: com.au/magnetic-island/
• North Stradbroke Island: com.au/north-stradbroke-island/
• Sydney Harbour: com.au/
• Kangaroo Island: com.au/kangaroo-island/
• Bruny Island: com.au/bruny-island/
• Rottnest Island: com.au/rottnest-island/
• Tiwi Islands: com.au/tiwi-islands/