Proposal of a point valuation method for the assessment of the sight-aesthetic value of the underwater landscapes of lakes in the context of exploration tourism

Motives: Most research on underwater landscapes is conducted in seas and oceans. Visual aesthetic assessments of the underwater world are very rarely conducted; the literature on the subject is scarce and does not cover inland bodies of water.Aim: The aim of this study was to develop a point valuation method for assessing the visual aesthetic value of inland bodies of water. Attractiveness maps can be generated to create and plan tourist development and to identify attractive exploration sites for divers. The proposed method can also be applied to channel underwater traffic to protect valuable areas as well as areas that are characterised by low scenic beauty, but significant ecological functions.Results: A method for assessing underwater landscapes in inland water bodies was developed and an attractiveness map was generated. Measurements were performed at points randomly distributed in the measurement grid. The results of direct observations made by experienced divers were used in the analysis. The study demonstrated that a point valuation method and attractiveness maps of underwater landscapes of lakes can be developed.