Marine tourism could be the saviour of the Cornish fishing industry, according to a new study.

Combining tourism and traditional fishing can help keep fishing culture and tradition alive while creating a more sustainable industry, suggests the report.

Marine tourism includes taking tourists on fishing trips.

Study leader Dr Anke Winchenbach said: “Our study details how Cornish fishers have experienced the transition into tourism – and hopefully shows how fishing and the tourism industry can work together to help maintain the region’s traditions while reaping the benefits of positive marine tourism.

“It’s not a question of ditching tradition but showing how valuing tradition while embracing new opportunities delivers real economic and social benefit to the fishers and the region.”

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The study, published in The Annals of Tourism Research, shows this transition benefits fishers economically, as well as physically and mentally. This is due to safer working environments and the sense of pride that comes with teaching others fishing skills.

The move to marine tourism has received support from communities throughout Cornwall.

Between 1938 and 2020 the number of fishing operators fell by 75%. Since 1994 alone it has dropped by 45%.

This decline in fishing, and a lack of tourism promotion, are key reasons why 90% of the UK’s most deprived communities are on the coast.

Dr Winchenbach, a lecturer in tourism and transport at the University of Surrey, said: “With tourism accounting for 20% of employment in Cornwall and contributing just over £2 billion to the local economy through visitor-related spending, the regional debate has often pitched tourism against tradition."

She added: “Our study suggests that tourism and tradition can work hand-in-hand to support the community, deliver economic and personal benefits through increasing social interactions and improving mental health.”

Coastal and marine tourism is the second largest contributor to the so-called 'blue economy' – this being the sustainable use of oceans, seas and coasts to benefit the economy.

The study hopes to serve as a blueprint of how fishers can remain connected to the sea while benefitting their community and make fishing more sustainable.