Continued Growth in Tourism in the Algarve Will Ensure a Boost to the Diving

Published on 30th June, 2013

The Algarve is popular with tourists for a number of reasons, and diving continues to be one of the leading leisure activities. Recently the Algarve received a glowing review regarding the activities available, and the standard of the tourist resorts. Over a three day period, Adolfo Mesquita Nunes the Secretary of State for Tourism made several observations and even enjoyed a dive in Alvor.

The Secretary of State was invited to the Algarve to enjoy and experience what was on offer to the tourists. Many people choose the Algarve every year for the fantastic climate, friendly people and crystal clear waters. The 200 kilometers of stunning coastline provide some of the best dive sites, and you will be amazed at what you can see under the water.

There are several traditional activities that are associated with the Algarve, which include, golf and the beaches. The Secretary of State wanted to explore what else was on offer, and decided to grab a wetsuit, and explore the mysteries of the ocean. Although this was his first time diving, he entered into the spirit of the occasion with enthusiasm.

The excellent Ocean Revival Project was part of the reason for the dive, as the Secretary of State wanted to gain greater visibility of this fantastic project. The wondrous sub-aquatic theme park, which is set to boost tourism numbers, is one of a kind. The park will be made up of sunken navy ships, which are situated two miles from the coast.

It is believed that people wanting to dive will increase by a staggering 90,000 and will be a unique niche market for the Algarve. The traditional seasonality of the area needs to be combated, and it is believed that this is the perfect way to boost tourism further. Diving remains a lucrative market, and one that is currently bringing the Algarve a staggering €70 million yearly income.

Many of these divers travel from other parts of Europe such as, Ireland, Germany, United Kingdom and Scandinavia. The busiest time for diving is the off season, when professional divers flock to the area, to enjoy what is on offer. The government wants to ensure that they continue to invest heavily in tourism relating to the sea.

This includes all areas of nautical tourism as they can see that this will produce a healthy return for their money. The Secretary of State is in full agreement with the plans, and continues to strongly defend the need for less bureaucracy and fewer taxes throughout the tourism sector. Throughout the three day tour of the area, many different issues were discussed and covered.

The Secretary of State was joined by Desidério Silva, who is the leading face of the Algarve Regional Tourist Board (RTA). Both men believe that this is the perfect time to turn the opportunities around to ensure that the Algarve takes full advantage of what is available to them at this time. By grabbing the sun, and using the beaches as anchors, investments can be made in complementary products.

This plan will help to ensure that the Algarve continues to thrive and that it becomes a complete yearly tourist destination. Alongside the current attractions of the sports, residential, health, gastronomy and eco tourism, there is always an opportunity to bring more people. With everyone fighting for the same things, the Algarve is set to go from strength to strength.

Published in: Guide to Portugal / Travel