A Smooth Sea Never made a skilled sailor: Response to Government Action

Wave breaking over the rocks of Island Cove in Ramea - Skylar Skinner

As tourism operators across Newfoundland and Labrador, we are deeply disappointed by the Provincial Government’s decision to withdraw from the South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area feasibility study.

This was a community-led, Indigenous-partnered process—over 20 years in the making—focused on protecting working oceans while building sustainable tourism and long-term economic opportunity for southwest coast communities.

Tourism thrives where conservation, culture, and certainty come together. Walking away before the study is complete sends the wrong signal to rural communities, investors, and the people who depend on the land and sea.

We call on the Province to honour its commitments, respect the voices of coastal and Indigenous communities, and allow the feasibility study to be completed.

Sustainable tourism depends on healthy oceans and trusted partnerships.