Mapping of spatial features model in developing marine ecotourism in Waerole and Nusa Telu, Maluku Province, Indonesia

Abstract

In the formulation and designation of the ecotourism area, the use of spatial suitability indexes is usually employed. The social, economic, and cultural parameters have almost been ignored in the analysis. These parameters are essential to be included in the development of marine ecotourism to avoid the loss and the impact of these socio-cultural parameters in the development of marine ecotourism. The objective of this research was to construct a conceptual model and thinking perspective and to identify the connectivity of ecology, socio-economy features spatially in designing marine ecotourism areas. Data were collected through observation, participatory mapping, focus group discussion, and interview. Data obtained were then analyzed descriptively and displayed graphically. The conceptual model constructed shows that the marine ecotourism management plan of Waerole and Nuatelu Cape can be categorized into six spatial marine ecotourism explicitly coastal marine e-tourism, snorkeling e-tourism, diving e-tourism, in-shore angling e-tourism, open sea fishing e-tourism, and habitat rehabilitation. The conceptual model for a sustainable management plan for coastal and marine ecotourism suggested the need for holistic and integrated sustainable management comprise of 27 biophysics and socio-economy feature.