Barbate, Boat Tour to the Almadraba of Conil (Tuna Fishing)

The Conil Almadraba tour commences at the Barbate Marina and provides an in-depth exploration of the intricate design and positioning of the nets and anchors within this unique fishing system.

The historical, evolutionary, operational, and technical aspects of an ancient three-thousand-year-old bluefin tuna fishing gear will be narrated by the crew during their journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Departing from the mythical Trafalgar Lighthouse, the group will traverse the vast expanse of the Atlantic, ultimately reaching the Almadraba de Conil. This event involves a detailed explanation of the Atlantic bluefin tuna's migration patterns over millennia, focusing on its passage through the Strait of Gibraltar towards the Mediterranean Sea. The team will embark on a one-hour voyage to conduct their maneuver, positioning themselves approximately 100 meters away from the codend—a crucial element of the Almadraba system. During the maneuver, they will closely monitor the delicate fishing technique, specifically the "levantá," where divers release signals indicating when the bluefin tuna have crossed beneath the vessel.

Upon the cessation of current flow in the Strait of Gibraltar, signaling the arrival of the tidal change, the crew will execute the main maneuver: raising the codend net aboard the "sacada." Following this, the crew will proceed to close boats alongside the fishery, observing the rapid descent of the red giant tuna into the water. At this juncture, slaughtering techniques borrowed from Japan—such as the "Lupara" and "Ikeyime"—will be employed to minimize animal suffering while ensuring the highest quality of bluefin tuna available globally.

Once the first boat arrives at the codend filled with tuna, the team will return to port to await the unloading of the catch, preserving the integrity of the meat without unnecessary processing or mutilation. Catering services during the expedition will include a hearty breakfast of coffee and pastries en route and a taste of various tuna varieties paired with refreshing beverages upon returning to port.