The Alfaques Bay and the Ebro Delta, an outstanding fishing area!
The Ebro Delta is a popular place for sport fishing enthusiasts. Enjoy the wide variety of fish that can be caught! The large amount of nutrients provided by the Ebro River and the mixture of river and sea water facilitates the reproduction of freshwater fish such as eel, carp, common catfish, catfish or perch... But also saltwater fish such as different kinds of lisa, sole, bream.
The waters off the coast of the Delta are rich in nutrients, which creates a high concentration of algae and plankton. These form the basis of the trophic marine chain, consisting of a variety of zoological groups.
On the sandy and mobile sea bed lives many filtering molluscs, such as shellfish, clams, mussels, snails and other species prized by those who love gourmet food. On the open water, the fish fauna is extensive, with commercial species like flounder, sardines, anchovies, sea bream, mullet, etc. You can also find cetaceans like dolphins and sea turtles such as the loggerhead turtle.
The Alfaques Bay, bound by the Natural Reserve of Punta de la Banya and the isthmus of Trabucador beach, is a natural area covering 5.894ha, with an average depth of 4 meters, which forms one of the largest natural harbours in Europe… Inside the bay, the waters are calmer. The depth varies from one to eight meters and the bottom is covered with extensive seagrass beds. These conditions create great biodiversity, which is enjoyed by hungry sea birds as well as fishermen. Note the abundance of shellfish caught here, like the appreciated shrimp of Sant Carles as well as cultivated molluscs such as mussels and oysters, which can be enjoyed in various festivals and gastronomic routes, and in the many restaurants of the area.
Get to know theworld of fishing and the sea!
The concept Estación Náutica, could be translated into a Marine Resort. It is a tourist destination specializing in active holidays in contact with water which offers the possibility of making all kinds of activities during leisure time. These are combined with accommodation, food and other services. We propose the following activities in order to let you know the world of fishing and the sea, in the unique landscape of the Alfacs Bay :
In the Estación Náutica you will not only enjoy an exceptional day of fishing, because you can also come close to the fishermen, their culture and the traditional ways of fishing. An experience for young and old: to learn the traditional fishing techniques practiced by our ancestors from ancient times is a unique activity that you cannot miss.
On the other hand, if you like sport fishing and you imagine being able to fish in the sea quietly, with your own boat. We propose that you rent a small boat (that doesn’t require any certificate or prior experience), and navigate safely and peacefully through the calm waters of the Bay of Alfaques. We also provide you with all necessary equipment for fishing, you don’t need to worry about the luggage during your holidays!
The various tourist routes provide information about the cultural heritage and the environment of the Bay: the Tower of San Juan, the neoclassical remains of San Carlos de la Rápita, the Casa de Fusta or the unique core Poble Nou del Delta are some examples. As for fishing, the Fish Market is a must to enjoy the bustle of the arrival of the boats and to enjoy the auction as well as the view of the Bay. Currently there are 46 trawlers, however the traditional fishing still remains: a la “paupa” (with hands), in buckets, with landing net, with long lines, etc.
Decalogue of the responsible navigator
1. Respect the marine environment without disturbing the areas and sensitive and protected species that are on the navigation route.
2. Protect seabeds in sensitive areas.
3. Save water using seawater in those actions where possible.
4. Make a responsible use of energy using renewable energy and an efficient equipment.
5. Optimize resources and avoid pollution of the environment by following good maintenance on the boat following environmental criteria.
6. Comply with environmental legislation about the discharge of waste water and potentially contaminated water to the sea.
7. Use the services of port environmental management using tanks and waste water collection containers for selective collection of waste.
8. Ensure compliance with environmental regulations by informing the authorities if you notice any disrespectful activity with the environment.
9. Inform shipmates and other mariners about good environmental practices that can be carried out.
10. Extend the values acquired at sea, in your daily life.