This study focuses on sustainable destination development in a Nordic context. At most destinations stakeholders from private, public and voluntary sectors interact and there is a need for coordination and cooperation. An escalating competition among destinations has raised calls for innovative offerings that are well-coordinated. Studies of tourism destinations show that networks are crucial since successful destinations are based on interrelated stakeholders that understand the concept of the destination and are committed to cooperate in offering a holistic experience to visitors. 

The aim of this paper is to discuss the driving forces of sustainable destination development. In particular the study focuses on stakeholder cooperation and sharing of knowledge and experiences among two Nordic regions based on maritime culture and inland sea-regions.

The data collection includes a combination of different methods: interviews with main stakeholders, collection of existing documents related to the regions, observation of stakeholder meetings, and participant observations of attractions and events. 

The project is ongoing but so far we have interviewed a few stakeholders in each destination and gained their insights into how to cooperate in order to develop tourism sustainable regions.