FADs Placed in Aruba’s Waters to Support Fishermen
ORANJESTAD – The Government has placed Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) in Aruba’s territorial waters.
This initiative aims to support local fishermen by improving access to fish while enhancing safety at sea.
Fish Aggregating Devices are structures placed in the ocean to attract fish. By installing these devices closer to shore and within Aruba’s territorial waters, fishermen no longer need to travel long distances or venture into foreign waters. This significantly reduces risks and contributes to safer fishing practices.
This initiative benefits everyone involved in fishing activities, recreational, commercial, and professional, while providing particular support to the most vulnerable fishermen in the sector. The locations of the FADs were determined in consultation with stakeholders, ensuring that fishermen’s needs were fully taken into account.
“Supporting our fishermen means more than making promises, it means taking concrete action. By installing these FADs, we are improving safety, strengthening livelihoods, and ensuring that our fishermen receive meaningful support,” said the Minister of Tourism, Transport and Labor, Wendrick Cicilia.
The Government continues to give special attention to the fishing sector, placing the needs of fishermen on Aruba’s national agenda. This initiative also reflects the effective use of tourism-related resources, with funding provided by the Aruba Tourism Authority. It demonstrates how tourism funds can directly support the local community.
Official Approved Locations
- California: 12°41.286' N, 70°05.266' W (replacement of the one lost)
- Druif: 12°38.361’ N, 70°00.301’ W
- Eagle: 12°32.7' N, 70°06.0' W (on the edge of the quarantine zone)
- Zeewijk: 12°23.949’ N, 69°56.568’ W
- Seroe Colorado: 12°25.098’ N, 69°50.240’ W
- Juana Morto: 12°26.712' N, 69°46.56' W (new location)