Overseas visitor demand for marine and coastal tourism

Abstract

For many coastal regions, marine and coastal tourism is a vital contributor to their economies. However, recent COVID-19 related travel restrictions have constrained the flow of overseas tourists into these areas. As restrictions ease, coastal regions aim to restart this tourism market. Using an Irish case study, this paper explores overseas tourist’ participation and length of stay in marine and coastal areas, using a logit model and negative binomial model respectively, to inform policy development to revitalise this segment of the tourism industry. The results indicate that a myriad of attributes impact the decision to enter the market and the amount of time spent in these areas. Country of residence, composition of the travelling group as well as activities undertaken in coastal areas all affect demand. Importantly, the results also suggest that not all attributes that affect participation affect length of stay and vice-versa. This may indicate niches where appropriate policy could transform those already participating in the market to become longer stay tourists. Additionally, consumer surplus estimates indicate that the average marine and coastal tourist receives three times more value than they spend. The analysis presented here also suggests a number of future avenues for research that may be of interest. Future researchers may wish to look at the relationship between close geographic neighbours and length of stay as well as the effects of going on tours, and, possibly, eco-tours, on time spent in coastal areas.