A Croatian maritime initiative has advanced to the final stage of one of the globe’s most esteemed sustainable tourism awards.
The SeaCras App, conceived through collaboration among Zadar Cruise Port under Global Ports Holding/GPH, the Rewilding Velebit Foundation, and the tech firm SeaCras, has been selected as one of four finalists in the category of World’s Leading Marine & Biodiversity Conservation Programme at the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. The smart application integrates artificial intelligence with satellite data to offer real-time sea-quality readings, freely accessible via QR codes placed at Zadar Cruise Port, the protected Zavratnica Bay, and Jablanac within Velebit Nature Park. This allows residents, visitors, and cruise passengers to obtain transparent updates on water cleanliness simply and swiftly.
Initially trialled in the Zadar terminal last summer, the app has since been extended to natural reserves managed by the Rewilding Velebit Foundation. Its recognition now places the initiative among the leading conservation programmes globally. A public vote will determine the ultimate winner, with a presentation scheduled for October in Dubai UAE.
Earlier international commendations have followed. In June, the project was spotlighted by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Future Investment Institute as a model of regenerative tourism. It was also presented at the UN Ocean Conference, a premier gathering of global policymakers and experts focused on marine stewardship.