Nature Tourism in the Hebrides Some thoughts from south of the Border

Setting the scene: does this sound familiar? UK tourism faces challenges Traditional seaside holidays in decline Farming incomes fluctuate with global prices Fishing industry under threat : but best product goes overseas Food producers pressured by supermarkets Youth unemployment

Wildlife in Britain Wildlife audiences are growing Awareness of “wild Britain” Concern for the environment Responsible tourism UK/EU legislation is working – cleaner rivers, lakes and seas Many species in decline – conservation bodies need more and better informed supporters

Changing holiday patterns Demand for quality accommodation and food Growth (and energy) of the retired market Wildlife on TV Photography & optics: lower cost – higher quality Authentic experiences: staying by the sea, islands, wildlife with local experts What are visitors seeking?

What do The Hebrides offer? Exoticism: “I’ve always wanted to go there” Variety of landscapes and ever-changing light Remarkable value for ferry transfers Some very good accommodation Unique flora & fauna o Machair o Cetaceans o Seabirds o Eagles o Migrants o Otters…

What could The Hebrides do better? More high quality accommodation/seafood Marketing & PR: good value, great outdoor activities, easy to reach Website – what to see, where and when Co-ordinate your efforts: Tourism Hebrides, RSPB, SNH Promote your flora & fauna Identify niches: photography, wildlife, walkers

What we did: the Puffin Mark

Joint steering group: YWT, RSPB, local councils Seminars for businesses Familiarisation day Better understanding of the “product” Demand for a membership scheme Local press & TV interest generated

Launch programme English Tourism Week: 10 th -18 th March website Map guide published Press and PR campaign New DVD sent out to businesses

Website

Map Guide

Fee structure and benefits First year special offer £50.00 Annual membership£ VAT £5.00 Monthly direct debit option£ VAT Accommodation providers must be VHEY members Benefits Listing on Nature Triangle website under “Plan my trip” tab Puffin Mark (issued annually) for your window Listing on (approx 1m hits p.a.) Free link to your website Free images from YWT’s wildlife photo library Copies of the map guide & YWT’s events guide Initial inspection visit; free guidance on wildlife tourism Regular business seminars to update you

Accreditation Visits to each applicant will cover assessment of: Knowledge of local wildlife, and how to learn more Wildlife guidebooks and magazines on hand Recommended local walks, cycle rides Binoculars for guests to borrow Knowledge of local events e.g. boat trips, guided walks Access to websites: wireless broadband Wildlife-friendly premises: bird feeders in the garden, wildflowers, pond, nature nearby Maintenance, upkeep and tidiness

Some conclusions The Hebrides is a stunning product Make the most of the RET and tell the market about it Bring more quality accommodation on-stream Invest in assets: hides, visitor centres Work with the tour operators: e.g. Naturetrek Better maps and guidebooks Emphasise the “otherness” You aren’t in the eurozone

xx Thank you Good luck, and…