Jeju Island Yacht Route Plan Faces Environmental Criticism, Raising New Concerns About its Impact on Dolphin Sanctuary and Sustainable Tourism

Published on February 11, 2026

The plan by Jeju Island to create a yacht route that would encircle the island is raising some serious concerns among environmental groups, since this might hurt the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin sanctuary, a habitat of the seriously threatened species. While it is by no means the intention of the planned route, which primarily aims at showcasing the scenic coastline of Jeju, these activists say it is only adding insult to injury for an ecosystem so heavily burdened by the development of tourism on the island.

The plan to promote a sailing route along Jeju’s western coast—branded as an experience tied to the island’s Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins—raises some questions over how growth in tourism numbers can be balanced with preservation of Jeju’s unique natural heritage. Hot Pink Dolphins, an animal welfare advocacy group, warned that introducing more marine traffic can further disturb the dolphins, which are increasingly stressed by the presence of sightseeing boats and tourist operators in their habitat.

The Growing Demand for Sustainable Tourism in Jeju

While the proposed yacht route represents a move to further expand Jeju’s tourism offerings, particularly for luxury and coastal travel, it also highlights the growing need for sustainable tourism solutions. As Jeju continues to emerge as a premier travel destination, particularly for eco-tourism and nature-based experiences, the island faces increasing pressure to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

With a focus on coastal and marine tourism, Jeju Island has long attracted tourists seeking surfing experiences, wellness retreats, and opportunities to witness the beauty of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. However, as tourism demand in Jeju rises, environmentalists argue that the island must invest more in eco-friendly tourism practices to prevent long-term damage to the region’s delicate marine ecosystems.

The proposed yacht route could have a significant impact on both local tourism businesses and the broader tourism economy in Jeju. Increased boat traffic, along with the potential disruption of dolphin habitats, could lead to tourist dissatisfaction, particularly among eco-conscious travelers who prioritize sustainable and low-impact travel experiences.

Tourism and Conservation: A Delicate Balance

The introduction of the yacht route would undeniably contribute to Jeju’s growing tourism economy, driving interest in the island’s natural attractions and coastal beauty. However, the economic benefits of the project must be weighed against the potential harm to the environment, particularly the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, who rely on the region’s coastal waters for feeding, rest, and social interaction.

Jeju Island’s tourism sector has historically relied on its natural assets—from its volcanic landscape to its marine biodiversity—to attract visitors. As tourism continues to expand, Jeju officials must balance economic growth with the preservation of these key natural resources. The rise of eco-tourism and responsible travel among global tourists means that destinations like Jeju can no longer overlook the environmental impact of unchecked development.

Environmental advocates have called for a revised proposal, urging the government to relocate the route to ensure that yachts remain more than 2 kilometers offshore from the dolphins’ known activity range. Such a change would reduce the risk of disturbance to the sanctuary, helping preserve Jeju’s reputation as a destination for sustainable tourism.

Sustainable Tourism and the Future of Jeju’s Coastal Development

As Jeju’s tourism sector continues to grow, the development of the yacht route serves as a reminder of the need to integrate sustainable practices into future tourism projects. Jeju has already taken steps to protect its marine environment with the establishment of a marine protected area (MPA) for the dolphins, but critics argue that further efforts are needed to manage the increasing strain on the island’s coastal ecosystems.

Tourism-driven economic growth in Jeju is undoubtedly important for the local economy, but environmental responsibility must remain at the forefront of future development. As luxury travel and eco-tourism continue to grow, Jeju Island has the opportunity to set a global example of how to create a thriving tourism economy while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and the protection of natural heritage.

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Sustainable Tourism

The Jeju provincial government has made strides in environmental protection, with efforts like the legal entity status campaign for the dolphins. However, experts believe that sustainable tourism in the region requires more than just protected areas. Public-private partnerships, involving collaboration between local authorities, tour operators, and environmental organizations, will be crucial in ensuring that Jeju’s tourism growth does not come at the expense of its unique ecological treasures.

By prioritizing eco-friendly tourism practices, such as low-impact boat tours, sustainable accommodations, and the careful management of tourist traffic, Jeju Island can ensure that its coastal and marine environments remain preserved for future generations of visitors and wildlife alike.

Charting a Sustainable Path for Jeju Island’s Tourism Future

The yacht route planning in Jeju Island’s proposal can be seen as a crossroads in the island’s expanding tourism industry, where the issue can contribute to the growth of the tourism industry while at the same time providing new coastal experiences.

However, by reconfiguring and redefining the project’s overall design to be more amendable to the minimal interference with the dolphin’s natural habitat, Jeju may be able to open up its tourism sector to a more sustainable concept focused on sustainable tourism practices and development, striking a delicate balance between economic progress and the preservation of its natural ecosystems.