iSURFATLANTIC is a transnational cooperation project developing the first Sustainable and Inclusive Surf Tourism Route in the Atlantic Area, connecting coastal destinations in Portugal, Spain, France, and Ireland.
The project responds to shared challenges across Atlantic coastal regions—such as environmental pressure, tourism seasonality, unequal access to surf experiences, and fragmented sustainability and inclusion standards—by promoting a coordinated and responsible approach to surf tourism. Through cooperation and knowledge exchange, iSURFATLANTIC supports a tourism model that is inclusive, environmentally conscious, and rooted in local communities.
What we’re doing?
- Developing a distinctive Atlantic surf route based on local identity and transnational cooperation
- Enhancing accessibility and inclusion, including adaptive surfing, inclusive infrastructure, and skills development
- Promoting eco-friendly solutions and improved destination practices to strengthen coastal resilience
- Delivering transferable tools and resources, including a Blueprint for Sustainable and Inclusive Surf Tourism with best practices, policy guidance, and governance models
Project Overall Objective
The overall objective of iSURFATLANTIC is to increase the sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience of surf tourism destinations in the Atlantic Area by implementing a transnational surf route built on shared standards, innovative solutions, and inclusive practices.
By fostering cooperation among public authorities, research organisations, tourism stakeholders, and civil society, the project aims to improve accessibility, reduce environmental impacts, enhance destination quality, and ensure that the benefits of surf tourism are equitably shared.
Our Mission
Increase the sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience of surf tourism destinations in the Atlantic Area
Project Relevance and Context
Surf tourism is a fast-growing activity in the Atlantic Area, generating opportunities for local development, employment, and destination diversification. At the same time, its growth has increased pressures related to environmental sustainability, overcrowding, limited accessibility for people with disabilities, and uncoordinated policy responses.
iSURFATLANTIC addresses these challenges by promoting harmonised sustainability and inclusion principles at transnational level, avoiding isolated local solutions and encouraging a coherent, scalable, and replicable approach. The project aligns with European priorities on green transition, social inclusion, and sustainable tourism, contributing to long-term territorial cohesion and resilience.
Budget and Funding
The total budget of the iSURFATLANTIC project is €2,912,092.32.
The project is co-funded by the Interreg Atlantic Area Programme through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), covering 75% of the total eligible costs. The remaining 25% is provided through national and partner co-financing.
iSURFATLANTIC will be implemented between 2025 and 2028 by a transnational partnership of public authorities, research institutions, non-profit organisations, and local stakeholders committed to sustainable and inclusive coastal development.
Key Outputs
iSURFATLANTIC will deliver practical and transferable resources to support long-term impact, including:
- The iSURFATLANTIC Brandbook
- iSURFATLANTIC Stories, a video series showcasing territories and experiences
- A Destinations PlayBook to support replication and adaptation in other coastal regions