Assessing the effects of the climatic satisfaction on nautical tourists' on-site activities and expenditure decisions

Climatic conditions may influence the way in which tourists undertake certain activities at destinations. This article proposes and empirically tests a structural equation model to measure the effects of climate perceived comfort on tourists' demand for nautical activities and expenditure decisions during the visit. Using data collected from 255 tourists visiting Cape Verde for maritime recreation, the study finds that satisfaction with weather conditions is the main determinant of the amount of nautical activities consumed by tourists during their visit to the destination. In addition, nautical activities are found to be a mediator of the impact of climate on tourists' satisfaction and on-site expenditure. The results suggest implications for tourism policy, highlighting the importance of the design of climate-oriented products and services for improving nautical tourism experience, foster technological innovation, and promote economic impact. •A positive climatic experience increases tourists' demand for maritime activities.•The more nautical activities tourists perform the higher expenditure and satisfaction they present.•Climatic perceived comfort does not have a direct impact on nautical tourists' expenditure.•Nautical activities are a mediator of the impact of climate on tourists' on-site expenditure.