West Highland businesses are being offered support to help them make the most of their natural environment, and reach new and growing markets.
In conjunction with the Year of Coasts and Waters, a network of 22 tourism destination groups has been set up under the banner of West Coast Waters (WCW), with the aim of attracting more adventure seekers and travellers.
It plans to run six initiatives during the year, including a 20-week community-based baton relay, a major maritime storytelling programme and the creation of new nature trials.
In partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), WCW is hosting a series of free engagement events. The first took place in Tarbert, Argyll, yesterday.
Others are planned for locations including Wester Ross, Fort William and Skye over the coming weeks.
The events involve information sessions, followed the next day by workshops on international market development.
WCW co-ordinator Carron Tobin said: “The Year of Coasts and Waters 2020 dovetails perfectly with our mission at West Coast Waters to encourage visitors and locals to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, tastes, textures and aromas of the west coast. The planned information days and workshops will shine a light on the six major initiatives that are happening over 2020.
“This is a great opportunity to network with like-minded people, and we are urging businesses, organisations and individuals to get come along to reap the benefits.”
Steven Dott, senior development manager for tourism at HIE, added: “Tourism is one of our most important rural industries, providing valuable employment and contributing to community resilience.
“The west coast of Scotland is a huge draw for many high-end visitors from within the UK and across the world, and there is potential to build on this.
“That’s what these West Coast Waters sessions are all about.
“They will help firms identify and pursue new emerging markets, through workshops and one-to-one sessions on tailored action plans.
“We hope many businesses will take advantage of these free sessions.”
The information sessions are open to anyone involved in tourism.