Minoan Sea Culture

EXPlore Learn CAre (Expleca) Sea
Every year, millions of visitors enjoy the beaches and waters around Crete, and large numbers of people now take part in diving and snorkeling. Rich in habitats and species, the underwater landscapes of Crete rival those famed in the tropics.Yet what do we really know about the marine environment right next to us when we are on holiday? How can it be showed off to its best advantage, so as to arouse interest, promote knowledge and enrich the tourist product we offer?

This summer, CRΕΤΑquarium – Thalassocosmos implemented a pilot programme aimed at describing, replicating and providing information on the inshore seabed around Crete. The project was carried out in collaboration with Nana Beach Hotel in Hersonnisos, which lies on a long stretch of rocky coastline rich in marine life. Every day, guests at the hotel don their masks to explore this area.
Aquarium staff photographed the sea bed and analysed the main habitats to create six giant posters accompanied by texts in English and German, which were then placed at appropriate information points along the hotel shoreline. Poster subject matter included photographs and information on species of fish, invertebrates and algae, as well as on the rock and sand habitats that visitors would encounter just by snorkeling along the hotel’s shores.
Inshore marine life was highlighted and scientifically documented using plain language and amazing underwater photographs, featuring everything from the commonest species and landscapes to those unique to the area.


 


As a pioneering force in the island’s tourist industry and a person renowned for his dedication to innovative ideas, hotel founder Miltiades Karatzis, President of Karatzis Ltd. made the following statement: When hotel manager Ilias Kalathas told me of Cretaquarium’s interest in the initiative, I saw it as something well worthwhile that would highlight and add to the natural beauty of our area and the island in general. In current conditions, activities that showcase features unique to Crete and further the protection of the environment should be given the encouragement and promotion they deserve.

 

Cretaquarium-Thalassocosmos will continue in its endeavours to highlight the marine environment around Crete, both at its own facilities and on the spot by the island’s shores. The tourism we offer relies mainly on those invaluable shores. Promoting knowledge and awareness assist in maintaining that natural resource, and contribute to the development of good practice in viable long-term environmental management.

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