Eco-Tourism and Biodiversity Conservation in Aquaculture Lagoons: The Role of Operator Philosophy and Low-Vibration Pontoon Boats

Aquaculture lagoons must reconcile visitor access with biodiversity protection. This study integrates results of a large survey of the attitudes of tour operators with field observations of fish populations to test whether operator choices can align tourism and conservation. Using data from 801 guided-tour participants in Taiwan’s Cigu Lagoon, a sequential experience hierarchy was validated whereby environmental knowledge enhanced attitudes, strengthened perceived guide professionalism, induced flow, and ultimately increased conservation intention (R2 = 0.523). Experiential service quality exerted stronger effects than functional quality (β = 0.287 vs. 0.156; both p < 0.001). Parallel underwater monitoring indicated that electric, low-vibration motors were associated with richer fish assemblages and larger fish body sizes; fish abundance is 61% higher and mean body length 38% greater, with community composition differing significantly by motor type (PERMANOVA, p < 0.001). Together, these results link training and technology adoption to measurable ecological gains and pro-conservation motivation, indicating that electrified propulsion and interpretive practice are mutually reinforcing levers for biodiversity-positive tourism. The framework offers directly actionable criteria—motor choice, guide development, and safety/facility context—for transitioning small-scale fisheries and recreation toward low-impact marine experiences.