After an enriching journey through France and Spain, the Trade Navigation Tour (TNT) reached its final destination in Portugal. On 29 September 2025, the tour docked in Viana do Castelo, a city renowned for its rich maritime heritage. This stop focused on dialogue, reflection, and cultural discovery, shedding light on the future of maritime tourism and its vital connection to fishing communities.
Regional Maritime Tourism Event: Perspectives on the Future of Coastal Tourism
The day began with a Regional Maritime Tourism Event, where participants explored the future perspectives of maritime tourism and its relationship with fishing communities. The event provided an opportunity for discussions on sustainable tourism and the critical role that fishing heritage plays in the development of coastal areas. Insights were shared on how local communities can balance the preservation of maritime traditions with the growth of responsible, tourism-driven economies.
Later in the day, participants enjoyed a guided tour of Viana do Castelo’s historic centre, where they explored key heritage sites, local fishing traditions, and the city’s enduring connection to the sea. The day highlighted how fishing and tourism can complement each other as powerful drivers of sustainable coastal development, while celebrating the maritime identity of Viana do Castelo.
Final Day in Caminha, Esposende, and Apúlia: Celebrating Coastal Traditions and Cultural Identity
On 30 September 2025, the final day of the Trade Navigation Tour took place in Caminha (Vila Praia de Âncora) and Esposende, marking the conclusion of the 14-day journey. This last stage celebrated the richness of maritime traditions and heritage, showcasing how coastal communities preserve their unique identities while embracing sustainable tourism.
In Caminha, participants had the chance to observe and engage with local maritime traditions at Space of Memories of the Sea and Lagarteira Fort. The visit to the fort highlighted the municipality’s efforts in preserving and promoting its maritime identity, linking cultural heritage to natural heritage.
This was followed by a guided tour of the Esposende Maritime Museum, one of the winners of the Portuguese incubation programme, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich maritime history.
The day continued with a visit to Apúlia, where participants explored key cultural landmarks, including Lugar das Pedrinhas, the “Masseira” of Mr. Manuel da Arminda, and the Sargassum Museum. The visit concluded with a cultural performance by the Sargaceiros Group of Casa do Povo de Apúlia, adding a lively, authentic touch to the day’s activities.
A Successful Conclusion to the TNT Journey
With these final activities, the Trade Navigation Tour concluded, strengthening dialogue, cooperation, and cross-border connections between Portugal, Spain, and France. The tour has highlighted the importance of fishing, aquaculture, and maritime heritage as central pillars of sustainable tourism and coastal development, showing how local communities are integrating cultural preservation with innovation.
The FISATUR project is proud of this journey, which not only brought attention to the richness of Atlantic maritime heritage but also reinforced the collective commitment to building resilient, sustainable coastal regions through collaborative efforts across borders.
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