Nestled along 30 km of the stunning southern coast of the Arrábida mountain range, the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, with more than 53 km2 of protected area, is a sanctuary for marine ecosystems and a reference for ecotourism activities.
It was created in 1998, when the world was celebrating the oceans in Lisbon (Expo 98), with the aim of protecting the diverse marine ecosystems and marine life that thrive in these waters, which were then under threat.
Since then, the area has seen a tremendous increase in biodiversity, recovering from past unregulated uses such as industrial fishing, pollution and destruction of sensitive habitats by human activities.
Protecting Marine Ecosystems
The creation of the park marks a significant step forward in the fight to protect marine ecosystems from threats such as overfishing, pollution and predation of coastal habitats. By creating a protected area with clear boundaries and regulations (see image), a sustainable balance between human activity and nature has been achieved.
Who was Luiz Saldanha?
Luiz Saldanha (1937-1997) was a renowned Portuguese biologist and marine scientist. He devoted much of his career to studying the biodiversity of Portugal's coastal waters, particularly here in the Arrábida region. Professor Luiz Saldanha's scientific studies focused on the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.
A Treasure Trove of Biodiversity
The Marine Park is now home to an extraordinary variety of species, including vibrant benthonic and pelagic fishes, sea grass prairies and kelp forests that serve as a sanctuary for many species to breed, find protection and grow.
The region offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe a diverse range of marine life, including pelagic birds, dolphins and even whales. The conservation of these ecosystems is essential, as they contribute to the overall health of our oceans and marine life, with obvious benefits for all.
The future
As demand for resources continues to grow exponentially, it is imperative that more protected areas are established to safeguard nature and wild ecosystems. This protected area is a prime example of a successful approach to balancing development with the protection of nature. Regulated fisheries, qualified eco-tourism and robust conservation efforts make this sanctuary a leading case study in Europe.
Involvement
By engaging coastal communities, a culture of respect for the marine environment was established, fostering a collective commitment to its protection. The impact of the Marine Park of Professor Luiz Saldanha extends beyond its borders, with local communities and visitors now actively involved in conservation efforts and participating in eco-friendly initiatives that promote sustainability.
Eco-Tourism: A Sustainable Approach
The concept of eco-tourism is fundamental to the unique character of the Marine Park. By promoting responsible travel practices, visitors are encouraged to explore the area's natural beauty while respecting the delicate ecosystems that are in place. The activities on offer, including sea scooter snorkeling, coastal guided boat tours and dolphin-watching tours, are designed to educate visitors about the importance of marine conservation. This not only enhances the visitor experience but also fosters a sense of stewardship for the environment.
Sesimbra is situated at the heart of this area and serves as the gateway to discovering this remarkable region.