Harnessing the Blue Economy and Cultural Heritage to Propel Sustainable Tourism and Drive Economic Transformation in Seychelles: An Integrated Systematic Assessment

Seychelles’ marine and coastal resources support approximately 70% of its economy; however, sustainable tourism and inclusive economic transformation face challenges such as governance fragmentation, environmental degradation, and insufficient cultural heritage integration. This study systematically examines how leveraging the blue economy alongside cultural heritage can advance sustainable tourism and promote inclusive economic transformation by analysing governance frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, social equity, environmental stewardship, and diversification pathways aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a PRISMA-aligned systematic assessment of English-language studies and policy documents focused on the blue economy and cultural heritage in island or coastal contexts, two independent reviewers screened, quality-appraised, and synthesised evidence through thematic mapping grounded in sustainable development theory, social-ecological systems (SES) theory, and an integrated governance framework emphasising transparency, inclusivity, and adaptive management. The synthesis reveals that governance fragmentation, cultural underutilization, and social exclusion frequently co-occur, highlighting their interdependence. By integrating SES and sustainable development frameworks, this study identifies polycentric governance that embeds cultural heritage through community co-management and cultural tourism revenue-sharing as a key predictor of higher equity outcomes, serving as a leverage point for resilience. Indigenous knowledge, traditional practices, crafts, storytelling, and festivals hold significant potential for enriching visitor experiences, strengthening identity and social cohesion, and diversifying economic activities beyond the fisheries and ecotourism sectors. However, these elements are often superficially addressed in policy. Persistent systemic inequities remain, with women, who constitute nearly half the population, underrepresented in blue economy sectors, and youth and Indigenous groups marginalised in decision-making and benefit-sharing. Ultimately, integrated, polycentric, and adaptive governance reforms that institutionalise the meaningful participation of marginalised groups and embed cultural vitality within environmental stewardship are essential for building a resilient, diversified tourism economy and translating SDG ambitions into locally achievable outcomes for Seychelles and similar Small Island Developing States.