Friday, January 7, 2011

Fishing tourism to be promoted in Greece

The Maritime Affairs, Islands and Fishing ministry intends to advance a regulation that will allow fishing tourism by professional fishing boats.

    Determination of the terms and conditions for the implementation of such a regulation are currently underway, and the target is to reinforce the incomes of fishermen on the one hand, and to provide interested parties (tourists, travel agencies, etc) more forms of alternative tourism in the new tourism season.


    Fishing tourism is part of the wider framework of marine eco-tourism, and may also include the boarding of non-crew individuals on fishing boats for recreational and tourism purposes, accommodation and general provision of specialized tourism services related to fishing and fish-farming, and services related to traditions and customs.

    The development of fishing tourism is viewed as an opportunity for professional diversification that aims at boosting the rebirth of coastal communities and fishermen who are facing financial problems due to a reduction in their incomes and in traditional fishing activities.

    Further, fishing tourism may also serve as a tool for increasing public awareness on the environmental problems and principles of sustainable growth to both sides involved: to tourist agents and their customers, and to fishermen and tourists.





(ANA-MPA)