Calpe moves to protect its marine life with major eco mooring rollout

Calpe is taking decisive action to safeguard its coastline, introducing eco-friendly mooring systems in two of its most heavily used beaches. The move aims to protect fragile seagrass ecosystems while allowing recreational boating to continue in a more sustainable way.

A protective barrier for seagrass in high-traffic waters

Local authorities in Calpe have approved the installation of 20 eco-mooring buoys across the popular beaches of Cantal Roig Beach and La Fossa Beach. These areas attract large numbers of leisure boats, especially during peak season, putting significant pressure on the seabed.

Unlike traditional anchoring, which involves dropping heavy anchors directly onto the ocean floor, eco-moorings allow boats to tie up to fixed buoys. This prevents anchors from dragging across delicate marine habitats and causing long-term damage.

Both locations are home to important underwater plant life. Cantal Roig hosts Cymodocea nodosa, while La Fossa is rich in Posidonia oceanica – one of the Mediterranean’s most vital and protected seagrass species.

Why protecting seagrass matters more than ever

Seagrass meadows like Posidonia are often described as the lungs of the Mediterranean. They produce oxygen, improve water clarity, and provide essential habitats for marine life.

They also act as natural coastal defenses, stabilising the seabed and reducing erosion caused by waves and storms. Despite their importance, these ecosystems are extremely fragile. A single anchor drop can destroy years of growth, and recovery can take decades.

By installing eco-moorings, Calpe is actively reducing one of the biggest threats to these underwater ecosystems—unregulated anchoring.

Backed by European funding and sustainability goals

The project represents an investment of approximately €42,000 and forms part of Calpe’s wider sustainable tourism strategy. It is funded through the EU’s Next Generation programme, under Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.

The installation will be carried out by a specialised marine contractor, ensuring minimal disruption during deployment and long-term durability of the system.

A shift towards smarter coastal tourism

Calpe’s initiative reflects a broader shift across Mediterranean destinations, where authorities are increasingly balancing tourism with environmental protection.

Eco-moorings are becoming a preferred solution in high-traffic coastal areas, offering a practical way to preserve marine biodiversity without restricting access to the sea.

For Calpe, this marks an important step forward—protecting its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life while maintaining its appeal as a premier boating destination.