Questionnaire responses from tour operators
A total of 21 (87%) fully answered questionnaires were returned. Ecotourism
operations in protected areas of LPB could be grouped into sea kayaking, scuba
diving, nature cruises (including sailing) and day tour rides (Figure 3). Trips last
from 1 day (day tour operators, diving) up to 11 days (nature cruises); carry aboard
from 2 up to a 100 passengers (nature cruises) and some companies can supply more
than one service (e.g. sea kayaking and diving).
Ecotourism in LPB has grown remarkably in the last 10 years (Figure 4). More
than 66% of the companies have been operating for less than 10 years, 20% less than
16 years, and 14% for less than 30 years.
Ecotour operators were asked if they would consider their operations likely to be
ecotourism. Of the 21 who answered, only two did not consider their operations to
be ecotourism ventures (i.e. one dive and one cruise operator).
All operators reported having good management for inorganic rubbish and only
one operator reported leaving organic waste on the beach. However, from conversa-