The Canary Islands government has started a new marine tourism programme in La Restinga, a coastal town in El Hierro. This project, run by the Ministry of Tourism and Employment, aims to promote local culture by highlighting traditional fishing and quality local products.
This guided tour allows visitors to experience the area's rich history and engage with local fishermen. Participants can see firsthand the fishermen's daily lives and learn about the cultural significance of this coastal area.
Ignacio Solana, CEO of Gesprotur, explained that the programme benefits both fishermen and the tourism sector. It provides extra income for fishermen while promoting sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands, and respects local culture and the environment.
The pilot phase of the programme will test its feasibility, including costs, length, and activities, and gauge visitor interest for potential expansion to other islands. During the tour, visitors explored La Restinga's natural beauty and viewed the protected Marine Reserve, guided by experts.
The tour also included sampling local foods like croquettes and peto ceviche, and ended with a discussion involving key industry figures. Esteban Reyes, the General Director of Fisheries for the Canary Islands, stressed the importance of such initiatives for supporting the fishing industry, which faces huge economic challenges.
Additionally, the Cooperative Society of the Sea Pescarestinga joined the Craft Fishing Tourist Product Club during the event. This partnership aims to strengthen ties between tourism and fishing, creating new economic opportunities and preserving the region's maritime heritage.
