Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection has announced the establishment of a new marine reserve in collaboration with the Zanzibar government. This protected zone covers the entire coast of Bawe Island to preserve its coral reefs and support the area’s rich biodiversity for future generations.
The reserve prohibits fishing in the designated area to enable marine life and coral reefs to regenerate without disturbance. By promoting the natural balance of the ecosystem, the initiative helps ensure the long-term health of marine habitats surrounding the island.
“Bawe Island is the realisation of a dream – a place where luxury and sustainability meet,” said Attilio Azzola, Founder and Corporate Sales Manager of The Cocoon Collection. “We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and enhancing the surroundings that make our island unique.”
In addition to the marine reserve, Bawe Island is home to Zanzibar’s largest solar plant and uses advanced desalination and wastewater recycling systems. The initiative includes construction of modern housing with private boat docks for local fishermen who will be able to fish in authorised offshore areas to promote economic sustainability and preserve local traditions.
Located 15 minutes by boat from Stone Town, Bawe Island features 70 luxury villas – each with private pools, gardens and personalised butler services. Guests can also explore the island’s natural wonders and nearby attractions – such as Jozani Forest, Stone Town and spice tours – offering a perfect combination of relaxation and cultural discovery.
The Cocoon Collection names new UK sales and PR partners
Travel Promoters has been appointed as the new UK sales and marketing representative for The Cocoon Collection – expanding its reach into the Indian Ocean Islands, including the Maldives and Zanzibar. This partnership, effective immediately, aims to grow the collection’s brand presence in the UK market. Travel Promoters will focus on strengthening trade relationships and consumer awareness while Umlingo Travel PR will provide strategic media engagement.
The Cocoon Collection includes six luxury resorts offering a blend of local culture, personalised service and sustainable tourism practices. These include Cocoon Maldives, You & Me Maldives and Joy Island in the Maldives along with Pongwe Island, Gold Zanzibar and Bawe Island in Zanzibar.
Azzola said: “We are excited to work with the Travel Promoters team as well as Claire Roadley from Umlingo Travel PR. Their expertise and shared commitment to sustainable tourism make them ideal partners for our growth in the UK market.”
Travel Promoters Director Ailsa Tavares noted that The Cocoon Collection aligns perfectly with the company’s portfolio due to its focus on authenticity, sustainability and family-owned heritage.
The Azzola family’s commitment to social responsibility is central to the brand’s ethos. Through the Sofia Luna Azzola Foundation, they have built a kindergarten, primary school and sports centre in Kendwa, Zanzibar. In the Maldives, The foundation supports communities in the Lhaviyani and Raa atolls with educational resources and community development initiatives.
