THE TRANSFORMATION OF NAUTICAL TOURISM IN SPAIN: FROM THE TRADITIONAL TOUR BOATS "GOLONDRINAS" TO COASTAL CRUISES

Nautical tourism, and particularly coastal cruises, is a constantly evolving industry in Spain with significant untapped potential. These experiences have developed into proposals that seek to connect visitors with the natural and cultural wealth of the coasts, combining navigation with onshore activities ranging from gastronomy to marine wildlife observation. However, the sector still faces major challenges that require coordinated efforts to achieve consolidation. Currently, the industry is working to integrate sustainability and personalization into its services in order to meet the expectations of an increasingly demanding public. Reducing environmental impact remains a priority, and although progress has been made in cleaner technologies and responsible practices, much remains to be done for these solutions to become widespread. Collaboration between companies, public institutions, local associations, and universities is essential to drive improvements in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, and the protection of marine ecosystems. Another critical challenge is the professionalization of crews and the development of specific training programs. While qualifications such as the Patrón Portuario (Port Master) have been introduced, the current limitations of these programs highlight the need for broader training pathways tailored to the sector’s demands, including skills for operating sustainable vessels and managing tourism cruises more effectively. Regionally, coastal cruises are distributed across emblematic areas such as the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the Cantabrian, each with unique characteristics that require adapted approaches. These regions not only offer landscapes and biodiversity of high value but also present specific challenges in terms of port infrastructure and stakeholder coordination. For this reason, it is crucial to promote balanced and respectful development that benefits both tourists and local communities. As an expanding sector, coastal tourism faces the challenge of consolidating its business model through differentiation and the integration of sustainable values. Through a cross-cutting approach that includes the active participation of all stakeholders, Spain has the opportunity to turn its coasts into benchmarks of unique and responsible experiences, always preserving the environment and supporting local communities.