Impact Analysis of Marinas on Nautical Tourism in Andalusia

Abstract

Marinas are the key infrastructures for satisfying the complex and growing demand for nautical tourism. The significant number of auxiliary industries derived from the operation of the port itself are integrated within the sectors belonging to the Blue Economy. The aim of this article is to determine what marinas provide in Andalusia (Spain) and how they affect the development of the municipalities where they are located. The methodology used relies on a panel of experts who provide in-depth information about the sector by means of the Pestel and Swot diagnosis. The results obtained underline the importance of the marinas in Andalusia for the tourism sector, which are an international point of reference but which are currently exposed to a series of threats derived from the competition of ports in other Spanish regions (Levante, Catalonia, Balearic Islands, etc.), and other countries (Morocco, Croatia, etc.). In conclusion, the ports of Andalusia are well-consolidated and form a fundamental part of the economic development of the area through nautical tourism.