Innovative partnership launches to shape the future of marine tourism

Dúile Na Mara, an innovative project to develop ecology-informed guidelines for marine tourism, has been officially launched.

This year-long initiative is a collaborative effort between Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC) and four leading outdoor marine tourism operators across the region – Far and Wild, The Sea Collective, Maghery Coastal Adventure, and Freedive Northern Ireland.

Dúile Na Mara will focus on creating sustainable marine tourism practices in the coastal regions of Donegal, Derry, and Antrim. The project aims to balance tourism growth and ecological preservation through collaboration with local outdoor operators.

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Over the next year, Dúile Na Mara, led by Lorcan McBride, Far and Wild; David McCann, The Sea Collective; Stephen Bell, Maghery Coastal Adventures; and Johannes Windisch, Freedive Northern Ireland, will deliver actionable, ecology-based guidelines for the marine tourism sector. These guidelines aim to serve as a model for other regions, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the island’s rich marine heritage.

This cross-border initiative aims to empower tourism operators with the knowledge and tools to adopt environmentally conscious practices safeguarding marine ecosystems while enhancing visitor experiences.

At the launch, Lorcan McBride, Far and Wild, said: "We are delighted to have received financial support from the Shared Island Civic Society Fund of the Department of Foreign Affairs to develop this important business-led project. Collaboratively, we hope to learn together and develop some innovative solutions for the marine environment that will benefit local tourism in the North West and island-wide."

Margaret Larkin, Head of Operations, DLDC, added, "DLDC is delighted to support this innovative project, which aligns with our commitment to sustainable development and meaningful collaboration across communities. Dúile Na Mara represents a unique opportunity to create practical solutions for balancing marine tourism with ecological preservation, safeguarding our coastal communities’ natural infrastructure and economic strength.”