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Sustainable Ocean Production

Saving Our Sharks (Kab Xok)

Saving Our Sharks (Kab Xok) are Isla Mujeres fishermen who shifted from shark fishing to sustainable tourism, offering dives, snorkeling, and education
Drivers of Degradation Addressed
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Overfishing and Destructive Fishing
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Unsustainable Tourism

As part of the third cohort of MAR+Invest’s 2025 Acceleration Program, Saving Our Sharks—together with the Kab Xok Cooperative in Isla Mujeres—is a group of fishermen who, after three generations making their living from shark fishing, have chosen to transition into sustainable, non-extractive tourism. They now focus on offering snorkeling and diving expeditions, photo safaris, educational activities, and volunteer programs. These experiences draw on the fishermen’s deep marine knowledge and cultural heritage, creating authentic, conservation-driven alternatives to traditional fishing.


The business model is built around organizing marine wildlife observation and monitoring expeditions. Target customer segments include high-income travelers seeking exclusive experiences, students and researchers, volunteer groups, and adventure/nature tourists.

Author MAR Fund
Region Latin America and the Caribbean
Country Mexico
GFCR Programme MAR+Invest - The Business Development and Finance Facility of the Mesoamerican Reef
GFCR Convening Agent MAR Fund
Sector Sustainable Ocean Production
Stage Concept/Design
Key Contact Amy Jones

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