RRI.CO.ID, Samarinda - Traditional fishermen in Bontang Kuala, North Bontang Subdistrict, East Kalimantan, are successfully transforming traditional floating fish cages into an interactive maritime tourism destination to diversify their income and capitalize on regional marine tourism.

The initiative aims to merge aquaculture with hospitality to uplift the coastal economy of the historic stilt village of Bontang Kuala. The local administration has officially designated the coastal zone as a specialized hub for floating cage tourism development.

"We are developing these cages not solely for the fish aquaculture sector, but also for tourism that can uplift the economy of coastal communities," said Chairman of the Bontang Contact Farmer Fishermen National Center (KTNA), Jafar on Monday, May 18, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Currently, 30 active floating cage plots are operational and managed entirely by local fishing cooperatives. To elevate the traveler experience, the community is building integrated floating restaurants directly attached to the aquaculture grids.

This culinary infrastructure is engineered to offer tourists a unique sea-to-table dining experience where they can sit directly above the water, handpick live fish straight out of the nets, and have them prepared fresh on the spot by local cooks.

To expand their market reach, the KTNA is rolling out all-inclusive marine tour packages tailored for both domestic and international travelers. These integrated itineraries will feature guided snorkeling excursions that allow visitors to explore the vibrant coral ecosystems of Bontang.

Additionally, tourists can enjoy speedboat tours winding through the historic overwater wooden boardwalks of Bontang Kuala. To complete the experience, the packages also include fresh seafood lunches served directly on the floating platforms.

Beyond its lucrative tourism appeal, the project acts as a vital pillar for regional food security through sustainable aquaculture.

Jafar detailed that each standard floating cage unit measures 3 x 3 meters and possesses a maximum carrying capacity of 250 fingerlings. To maximize profit margins, the fishermen are strictly focusing on three highly prized, commercially lucrative carnivorous marine species that thrive in the clean, flowing currents of the Bontang coast.

The first of these premium commodities is the grouper, which is highly valued in international seafood markets. Additionally, they are farming white fish or white snapper, known for its excellent growth rates in controlled enclosures.

The aquaculture network prioritizes the high-demand red snapper, rounding out their selection of economically high-value marine species. ***