The Blue Gates project - Empowering Blue and Smart Transformation of the Black Sea Basin is driving innovation in the blue economy through the creation of a transnational cluster focused on smart, sustainable growth.

By investing in advanced technologies, developing joint digital tools, and strengthening R&D capacities, the project supports long-term solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of blue growth sectors across the Black Sea Basin. The project also actively identifies and promotes blue economy models that serve as best practices for the region.

One such example is Saint Anastasia Island—a small but vibrant symbol of how blue economy principles can be successfully implemented at a local level.

Saint Anastasia Island: A Model for Sustainable Blue Growth

Situated just 6.5 km southeast of Burgas, Saint Anastasia Island is the only inhabited island along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. Despite its modest size—around 9 decares—the island has become a thriving destination, merging natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainable development to support regional economic and environmental goals.

The island is home to the historic St. Anastasia Monastery, dedicated to Saint Anastasia the Healer, and a functioning lighthouse built in 1912 that still guides vessels through Burgas Bay. Since opening to tourists in 2014, the island has grown in popularity, attracting 28,000 visitors in 2024, up from 20,000 in 2022.

Today, the island offers a seafood restaurant and a café-pharmacy, an interactive museum and herbal apothecary, and a restored monastic cell for overnight stays. These attractions not only enhance the visitor experience but also support local employment and entrepreneurship.

Key Contributions to the Blue Economy

➤ Marine and Sustainable Tourism

Saint Anastasia Island is a key asset in the regional tourism industry, contributing to job creation in tourism, transport, and services. Its development is a clear example of marine-based economic growth balanced with cultural and ecological preservation.

➤ Infrastructure and Accessibility Enhancements

• Improved Access: The island has been made more accessible with wheelchair-friendly paths, braille and tactile signage, and facilities for visitors with disabilities.
• New and Expanded Docking Facilities: A 40-meter pier, added in 2021, accommodates tourist boats and private vessels. A floating pontoon for jet skis enhances recreational offerings. The existing dock was also extended by 5 meters to boost functionality and extend the tourist season.

➤ Cultural and Underwater Tourism

In 2024, an underwater chapel and a marble statue of Saint Anastasia were placed 15 meters underwater and 200 meters from the island's coast. These unique features provide new diving experiences and promote both marine adventure tourism and cultural heritage.

➤ Environmental Protection Initiatives

• Marine Cleanups: The annual Clean Black Sea campaign engages volunteers in underwater litter collection, raising awareness of marine conservation.
• Plastic-Free Practices: Since 2019, the island has phased out single-use plastics, replacing them with biodegradable alternatives such as glass, metal, and paper.

Saint Anastasia Island showcases how cultural preservation, marine conservation, and economic development can coexist and reinforce one another. The island stands as a model for sustainable blue economy practices—not only enriching the region’s tourism offering but also driving long-term socio-economic and environmental benefits for the Burgas area and the broader Black Sea Basin.