In an effort to reinforce the Canary Islands' position as a leading tourist destination, regional authorities and industry experts met this week at the Blue Forum on Marinas in Santa Cruz, Tenerife.
The focus was clear: modernising the islands’ more than 50 marinas to enhance their role in tourism, sustainability, and the local economy.
Pablo Rodríguez Valido, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Public Works and Transport, described the forum as a timely opportunity to reimagine the strategic value of marinas. “We are discussing how to elevate a sector that is essential for tourism in the Canary Islands,” he stated.
Rodríguez highlighted that marinas do more than be a home to boats, they create jobs, promote nautical and sports tourism, and contribute to the islands’ appeal as a high-quality tourist destination. These hubs, he said, are key to improving the image and experience of the archipelago for both residents and international visitors.
Tomás Azcárate, president of Marinas de España, echoed this sentiment, underlining the economic significance of marinas as central pillars of the so-called "blue economy." He emphasised their role in driving economic growth and employment across the eight Canary Islands.
The regional government’s modernisation strategy prioritises sustainability, energy self-sufficiency, and digital innovation. At the heart of this plan is the creation of ecopuertos, or ecoports - smart, environmentally friendly marinas that integrate clean energy and intelligent systems.
Initial steps are already underway, with ecoport projects launched at La Restinga port on El Hierro and Caleta de Cebo on La Graciosa. Further rollouts are expected, with aims to transform marinas into digitally advanced, community-friendly spaces that connect seamlessly with surrounding towns and cities.
Azcárate stressed the need for regulations that strike a balance between development and environmental protection. “The Canary Islands are home to around 24 areas of special conservation approved under the Habitat Directive. We must adapt our activities to ensure we protect these natural treasures,” he said.
With a strong focus on green energy, digitalisation, and community integration, the Canary Islands’ marina modernisation initiative is charting a course toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.
