Launches Ontario’s First Regenerative Travel Agency Offering Curated Regional Experiences
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Explorers’ Edge (RTO12) Launches Ontario’s First Regenerative Travel Agency Offering Curated Regional Experiences
Muskoka, Ontario – October 2025 – Explorers’ Edge (RTO12) is proud to announce the official launch of its Regenerative Travel Agency, marking a major milestone in rural tourism development for Ontario. This new initiative transitions the organization from promoting regional awareness to facilitating immersive, bookable travel experiences that generate direct economic impact for local communities and businesses.
Explorers’ Edge funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, the Regenerative Travel Agency a division of the organization introduces two inaugural small-group, day-long packages designed to connect visitors more deeply with the people, places, and stories that make Muskoka unique.
The first experiences include:
- Culture, Cranberries & Culinary Excellence – A full-day experience featuring a guided visit to Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site, an exclusive lunch at Muskoka Bay Resort, and entry to the Bala Cranberry Festival, complemented by artisan chocolate from Cacao Boys Muskoka. https://thegreatcanadianwilderness.com/exclusive-muskoka-cultural-and-culinary-tour/
- Heroes, History, Heritage & A True Taste of Muskoka – A fully guided day showcasing Muskoka’s rich history through visits to the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre and Bethune Memorial House, concluding with a culinary experience at The Oar and Sawdust City Brewing Company. https://thegreatcanadianwilderness.com/muskoka-stories-flavours-and-history/
Each package is limited to 10 guests per day, emphasizing connection, authenticity, and sustainable travel practices that align with the principles of regenerative tourism.
Quote from James Murphy, CEO, Explorers’ Edge: “This launch represents a major evolution in how we drive tourism in Ontario’s rural regions. By moving into direct travel packaging, we’re not only generating revenue and creating measurable economic benefits for our operators, but also ensuring that those benefits are dispersed more equitably across communities. Every booking contributes to the regeneration of our destination via re-investing profits back into the community whether is be socially, culturally, and environmentally – reinvesting in the very places that makes Muskoka and the greater Explorers’ Edge region so remarkable.”
From Darren Smith President & CEO, Lake of Bays Brewing Company | Sawdust City Brewing Co | Merit Brewing “Explorer’s Edge is taking a big step into the future with the launch of our new regenerative travel agency. Once again, EE is leading a new approach to regional tourism development, in which we move beyond promotion and into actively building the kinds of experiences today’s travellers are looking for.”
“For over a century, Muskoka’s waterways have connected people to our region’s stories and spirit. Partnering with Explorers’ Edge brings that legacy forward, creating experiences that celebrate our heritage while supporting the communities that make it thrive.” John Miller, President, Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre
“The Explorers’ Edge Regenerative Travel Agency initiative is a vital step forward for regional tourism, as it not only highlights the unique cultural and culinary offerings of Muskoka but also directly empowers local businesses and promotes environmental stewardship. We are thrilled to be part of a program that encourages visitors to experience our beautiful region in a way that truly gives back to the community and preserves our natural heritage for generations to come.” Robbie Irvine, Owner / Operator The Oar restaurant.
Driving Economic and Environmental Benefit
Inbound travel packaging allows Explorers’ Edge to directly influence visitor flows, extending stays and diversifying visitation beyond traditional hotspots. This model reinvests in rural communities and supports small businesses, guides, and operators while delivering defined, measurable outcomes that align with both provincial and national tourism strategies.
“Regenerative tourism isn’t just about minimizing impact, it’s about creating net-positive outcomes,” added Murphy. “Through partnerships, community engagement, and innovative packaging, we’re helping rural tourism thrive in a more balanced, resilient, and inclusive way.”
About Explorers’ Edge (RTO12)
Explorers’ Edge, previously known as Regional Tourism Organization 12, is the provincial tourism organization for the regions of Muskoka, Parry Sound, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, and South Algonquin. The organization leads regenerative tourism development through innovative partnerships, sustainability pilots, and community-driven initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s rural visitor economy.
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For more information, please contact:
James Murphy
CEO Explorers’ Edge
Email: [email protected]
