TWINNEDbySTARS aims to transform the European Outermost regions into globally recognized destinations for maritime ecotourism. This initiative seeks to harness the advantages of tourism to promote marine biodiversity conservation and mitigate the effects of climate change. The project builds upon the achievements of previous initiatives in the Macaronesian region, which have established networks and methodological frameworks for the collaborative development of innovative marine ecotourism products and activities involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located on various islands.
Examples of successful practices include onboard marine environmental education, responsible navigation, respectful wildlife viewing, and stargazing experiences. These practices have contributed to highly satisfying tourist experiences and have encouraged environmentally responsible behavior among both SMEs and tourists. TWINNEDbySTARS aims to expand and replicate these successful experiences across the European Outermost regions, while promoting the adoption of green and digital innovations within these communities.
The project emphasizes strengthening existing partnerships, capacity building, and opportunities for collaborative creation. It builds on the outcomes of previous projects like NAUTICOM, an Interreg MAC initiative that resulted in the development of a new tourism product involving week-long nautical experiences for marine fauna and pelagic bird sightings, as well as astro-tourism activities in the most significant natural reserves of Macaronesia, including Madeira, Dessertas, Salvajes, the Chinijo Archipelago, and Lanzarote.
Budget: €1 172 506.00 (85% financed)