In recent years, however, greater concern has been expressed over the condition of the coastal and marine environment. This has not been due to tourism alone. Nevertheless, the increasing economic significance of tourism, the growth of nature- based tourism activities, and the perceived desire of many consumers to experience the pristine environments of the tourist image has contributed to an increase in research on the physical impacts of tourism.
Regional surveys have often proved valuable in identifying the impacts of tourism on marine ecosystems. For example, in the Caribbean adverse effects which have been reported include damage from small boat anchors, boat groundings, and snorkelers and scuba divers. In addition, island report development has brought about erosion, pesticide runoff, sewage as well as oil spills and over-fishing. Anchor damage is regarded as one of the most serious threats to marine resources in the Caribbean particularly given the growing number of medium-sized and large cruise