Three Daily Direct Ferry Services to Gwanmae-do
Development of Extended-Stay Tourism Packages
Jindo County, which invited travel agencies nationwide to lay the groundwork for an era of island tourism. Provided by Jindo County.
Jindo-gun in South Jeolla Province has embarked on revitalizing island tourism by partnering with travel agencies across the country, taking advantage of the launch of a direct passenger ferry to Gwanmae-do.
On February 25, the county signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the county office with the Korea Domestic Travel Agency Association and the Korea Leading Travel Agency Association to jointly develop tourism products linked to the direct ferry service to Gwanmae-do. The signing ceremony was attended by Governor Kim Heesu, the presidents of both associations, and about 20 representatives from affiliated travel agencies.
Under this agreement, the parties will: jointly plan and operate tourism products in connection with the direct passenger ferry to Gwanmae-do; develop both day-trip and 2-day, 1-night package products; and promote and attract tourists nationwide using a network of travel agencies.
Although Gwanmae-do is known for its superb natural scenery, including the "Eight Scenic Spots of Gwanmae," and pristine sea areas that attract strong tourist demand, the existing ferry service operated only twice a day, limiting opportunities for day trips.
The county has invested 4 billion won to build a new 184-ton vessel and plans to operate the direct ferry to Gwanmae-do three times a day starting April 1. With improved accessibility, not only will day trips become more feasible, but it will also be possible to offer longer-stay tourism products.
In particular, the county plans to gradually expand high value-added tourism products that combine Gwanmae-do's nature tours and marine experiences with the culinary and cultural resources of Jindo's main island.
Governor Kim Heesu of Jindo-gun stated, "The direct passenger ferry to Gwanmae-do is not just a means of transportation, but a key driver for revitalizing island tourism. We will work with travel agencies nationwide to develop Gwanmae-do into Korea's leading island and marine tourism destination."
The county intends to conduct familiarization tours and pilot product operations, and will begin full-scale promotion and sales of tourism packages once the direct ferry service launches.
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