During the presentation of the fast ferry Pepita Castellví in the Gomera capital, Curbelo stressed that the incorporation of a new shipping company represents a significant step forward in the history of La Gomera's connection with Tenerife and the rest of the Canary Islands. He recalled that the regular route, initiated in 1974, was crucial in overcoming the island's historical isolation, facilitating mobility and access to basic services.
The island president highlighted that the entry of Baleària Canarias will expand travel options for residents and visitors. "More competition should translate into better services, more schedules, more seats, and greater responsiveness for users," he stated, noting that the port of San Sebastián handled over 1.3 million passengers and 318,000 vehicles last year.
“"Punctuality and the quality of maritime service are not minor issues for an island territory, as they can make the difference between making it to a medical appointment or not, or fulfilling a workday."
Curbelo thanked Baleària Canarias and its president, Adolfo Utor, for their commitment to La Gomera. He also positively valued that the new connectivity phase incorporates sustainability criteria, in line with the island's model of progress respectful of the environment as a Biosphere Reserve. The participation of Canary shareholders in the shipping company's capital was seen as reinforcing the project's roots in the islands.
Finally, the Cabildo president insisted on the need to address the pending challenges of maritime mobility in the Canary Islands, advocating for "advancing towards direct connections between the Green Islands—La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro—without necessarily depending on passing through Tenerife."
