Situated off the island of El Hierro in the Canary Islands, the Mar de las Calmas is envisioned to be Spain’s first fully marine national park. Translated as “Sea of Calms”, Mar de las Calmas is renowned for its biodiversity and underwater volcanic landscapes and home to a diversity of marine life, including manta rays, sperm whales, beaked whales and whale sharks.

The area has been a protected marine fishing reserve since 1996, which has helped preserve its ecological diversity.  At its centre is El Bajón, an underwater mountain long renowned amongst diving enthusiasts. When fully established, the Mar de las Calmas National Park will extend for several miles offshore, safeguarding 24,000 hectares of marine environment, ensuring the preservation of unique volcanic reefs, caves, and deep-sea habitats.

 Proposal Approved 

On July 30th, the Spanish government approved the proposal to declare Mar de las Calmas a national park. A public consultation process is now open, with the bill to be introduced in Parliament for final approval.

Opposition remains amongst sport fishing associations, diving clubs and traditional fishermen concerned about the imposition of new restrictions. However, fisherman have continued operating since the reserve’s declaration in 1996. A ministry source has stated “It is not a short process,” and will take “at least a year.”

If successful, the Mar de las Calmas will set a precedent for Spanish marine conservation, becoming 17th natural park in the national network and the country’s first marine national park. Currently, Spain has 16 National Parks, all terrestrial.