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Blue Tourism Initiative in the Caribbean: 2025 Milestones
December 2025
2025 was a pivotal year for the Blue Tourism Initiative in the Caribbean, marking major steps toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient blue tourism model across the region.
Led by the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI), in coordination with IDDRI and eco-union, and through the key role of local partners in Trinidad – Nariva Swamp; Tobago; Laborie, Saint Lucia; South Coast, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Initiative has continued to develop sustainable, inclusive, and nature-positive tourism pathways that
strengthen livelihoods while protecting marine and coastal ecosystems.
Key Results at a Glance (2025)
At the pilot sites in Trinidad – Nariva Swamp; Tobago; Laborie, Saint Lucia; South Coast, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 2025 saw tangible progress toward sustainable tourism models that balance nature conservation, community well-being, and economic opportunity.
- 70+ stakeholders engaged across pilot sites through consultations, diagnostics, and
planning sessions - 60+ community members and MSMEs trained in sustainable blue tourism practices
- 6+ capacity-building workshops and training events delivered
- 4 community-led blue tourism action plans initiated.
2025 Highlights
Supporting Inclusive, Community-Led Planning
Through facilitated planning processes, 4 draft community blue tourism action plans were developed, outlining priority investments, cooperative business models, governance arrangements, and market positioning strategies. Engagement efforts ensured meaningful participation of women and youth, strengthening inclusivity and local ownership.
Expanding Community-Based Blue Tourism
BTI pilot sites were launched and operationalised in four Caribbean locations, reaching 70+ stakeholders, including community organisations, fisherfolk, tourism operators, youth groups, and local authorities. Participatory diagnostics were completed to identify priority opportunities, risks, and actions for sustainable coastal and marine tourism development.
Strengthening Local Capacity and Livelihoods
CANARI delivered hands-on training to 60+ participants across pilot sites, focusing on sustainable tourism operations, visitor management, environmental interpretation, safety standards, and climate-resilient practices. In Nariva (Trinidad) and Tobago, training directly supported the development and improvement of locally owned tourism experiences.
Advancing nature-positive tourism
All BTI activities integrated ecosystem stewardship, biodiversity protection, and climate adaptation considerations, reinforcing tourism as a driver of sustainable livelihoods and resilience in coastal and marine environments.
Looking Ahead
In 2026, the Initiative will deepen implementation at pilot sites, support market access for community enterprises, and scale learning through regional partnerships and policy engagement.
