Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Abla Dzifa Gomashie has announced plans to explore underwater sightseeing as a new tourism product, citing the possibility of shipwrecks and other submerged historical treasures along Ghana’s coastline.

Speaking in a one-on-one interview with Class 91.3 FM’s Elizabeth Aidoo, the Minister said Ghana’s coastal waters could hold historical resources that, if properly protected, could attract tourists interested in underwater exploration.

“Because of the forts and castles along the coast, we believe that we have wealth also in the sea of maybe ships that were wrecked, that sank, and all of these should be protected,” she said.

Madam Gomashie said the government was exploring ways to preserve these underwater resources while developing them into attractions for visitors.

“And use that as a product for people who are interested in underwater sightseeing and so on,” she added.

The Minister said Ghana had ratified conventions relating to the protection of underwater heritage, underscoring the importance of safeguarding historical resources beneath the sea.

She said the initiative formed part of broader efforts to diversify Ghana’s tourism offerings beyond conventional visits to forts, castles and other historical landmarks.

Madam Gomashie acknowledged the need to improve the visitor experience at existing attractions, particularly Cape Coast Castle, which remains an important destination for members of the African diaspora seeking to reconnect with their ancestry and history.

“You’ve come once, twice and it’s not a particularly exciting journey,” she said, highlighting the need to make visits to the country’s historical sites more engaging.

She explained that while these sites hold profound historical and cultural significance, more could be done to sustain visitors’ interest and encourage repeat visits.

The Minister said exploring new tourism products such as underwater sightseeing could help Ghana preserve its historical wealth while creating additional experiences for tourists along the coast.