Press Releases
2025
As the 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) opens its doors in Heraklion this May, the spotlight is firmly on the Eastern Mediterranean, where the cruise industry faces multiple challenges potentially slowing its growth. These range from concerns about overcrowding and its strain on local environments and resources to port infrastructure deficiencies and geopolitical uncertainties. Under the theme “The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports & Destinations,” this year’s forum will bring together key industry stakeholders, industry leaders and policy makers to explore these pressing issues and find solutions. Discussions will focus on solutions and strategies to overcome these challenges while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable and consistent growth. “The wider Eastern Mediterranean faces complex dynamics,” said George Koumpenas, President, Hellenic Cruise Ship Owners and Associated Members’ Union (EEKFN), “The ongoing Gaza conflict and escalating security risks in the Red Sea have significantly contracted the cruise footprint across the region, echoing patterns last seen after the Arab Spring. Key markets such as Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, and parts of Southern Turkey are experiencing a notable downturn.” Despite these pressures, Greece has demonstrated resilience, with strong recovery figures post-pandemic and promising forecasts. According to data from the Hellenic Ports' Association (E.LIM.E.), Greece recorded 5,490 cruise ship calls in 2024, representing a total of 7,927,709 passenger visits - an increase of 260 calls and 924,559 passenger movements compared to the previous year. Homeporting activity continues its upward trend, with Piraeus leading the charge with 635 cruise turnarounds and over 1.1 million passengers, followed by Corfu, Heraklion, Lavrion, and Thessaloniki. But challenges to further growth remain. Although the region recovered quickly after the pandemic crisis, Turkey has yet to reach its erstwhile heights as a dominant cruise magnet. With a potential reopening of cruising in the Black Sea not in sight, coupled with Turkey’s slower recovery, the performance of Greek ports in the Northern and Eastern Aegean sea has also been impacted to a degree. These fast-changing dynamics and the disparity in the growth pattern between destinations in the same region, make itinerary and vessel deployment planning even more complex. The trend of cruise lines also deploying larger vessels in the Eastern Mediterranean to meet growing demand is going to feature high in the list of PSTF topics. While these ships offer economies of scale and increased passenger capacity, they strain the region’s port and tourism infrastructure, especially when there are multiple ships in port. Marquee destinations are now imposing daily passenger caps or passenger taxes, as is the case with Santorini and its 8,000-person per day limit, while other ports are contemplating similar restrictions. Without coordinated action, infrastructure limitations could hinder further growth. “A more holistic and forward-thinking development strategy is now essential,” said Athanasios Liagos, Chairman, E.LIM.E. “Investments must be directed at both expanding and modernising Greek ports, and also those at smaller emerging destinations, and at the same time safeguarding the cultural and environmental heritage that makes these destinations attractive in the first place.” Cruise stakeholders will call for enhanced collaboration between governments and the cruise industry to earmark specific destinations for sustainable expansion. Larger vessels are expected to remain the industry standard, making it crucial to identify ports with the capacity - and the means and ambition - to upgrade facilities without compromising authenticity. “As operators, we see enormous potential in the East Med beyond the traditional hotspots,” commented Manolis Alevropoulos, Vice President, Marine Operations, Celebrity Cruises – Royal Caribbean Group. “With the right infrastructure and destination management, several underutilized ports could emerge as marquee destinations in their own right, unlocking tremendous value for travellers and local economies alike.” There are several mainland and island destinations across the whole region with great potential for an infrastructure upgrade that could support larger vessels and provide valuable travel experiences, but remain dormant and unexploited. Any future growth strategy will have to take this destination potential into account. Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsors Region of Crete and Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development (ODAP), Silver Sponsors Greek National Tourism Organization and Piraeus Port Authority, Bronze sponsors Celestyal and Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsors Thessaloniki Port Authority and Minoan Lines, Supporters Heraklion International Airport and Creta Interclinic, Official Airline SKY express, and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Municipality of Heraklion and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise), the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece, and the Panhellenic Ship Suppliers and Supporters Association. For additional information, Press inquiries should be directed to: Artemis Vamvakopoulou, Posidonia Press Officer, EXTROVERT | Business Communications | Tel: +30 210 6724265, Email: posidoniapress@extrovert.gr Maria Photou, Marketing & Events Coordinator, Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. | Tel: +30 210 4283608, Email: mphotou@posidonia-events.com
The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF 2025) is set to bring together an elite assembly of global cruise industry leaders in Heraklion, Crete, on 6-7 May. With the strong support of the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority, this premier event will convene executives from the world’s major cruise lines, industry associations, destinations and maritime tourism authorities from Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean to engage in high-level discussions on the evolving landscape of cruise tourism. The forum will address a broad spectrum of industry challenges and opportunities, shaping the future of sea tourism in the region.
Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., the Forum’s organiser, said: “Over the next three years, 40 new cruise ships will be delivered, adding another 90,000 berths to global capacity. With the East Med becoming more important to the industry due to plans for increased ship deployment in the region, it is natural that all major and niche cruise lines will want to be in Crete for PSTF 2025.”
Over the course of two days at the state-of-the-art Mikis Theodorakis Convention Centre, key decision-makers will explore strategies for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Already confirmed speakers include:
Chris Theophilides, CEO, CelestyalTheodora Riga, President, MedCruise
Gianluca Suprani, Sr. Vice President, MSC Cruises
Elisabetta De Nardo, Sr. Vice President, Global Port Relations & Commercial Services, MSC Cruises
Manolis Alevropoulos, Vice President, Marine Operations, Celebrity Cruises | Royal Caribbean Group
Alessandro Carollo, Associate Vice President, Government Relations, Royal Caribbean Group
Ana Karina Santini, Associate Vice President, Int. Destination Development, Royal Caribbean Group
Sandi Weir, Sr. Director, Global Government Relations & Public Affairs, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings
Spyros Almpertis, Vice President, Port and Destination Operations, Guest Port Services, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Alexander Bieniek, Vice President, Marine Operations, Star Clippers
Filippos Venetopoulos, CEO, Variety Cruises
Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Vice Governor, Tourism, Region of Crete
Ioannis Anastasakis, Vice Governor, Climate Change and Urban Mobility, Region of Crete
Samuel Maubanc, Director General, CLIA Europe
Marcus Puttich, Director, Destinations, TUI Cruises
Ligia Balea, Product Manager, Shore Excursions, Carnival Cruise Line
Adria Bono, Director, Destination Experiences, Crystal Cruises
Michele Bosco, Manager, Shore Excursions and Operations, Princess Cruises
Isabelle Côté, International Terminal Operations-Management Consultant, Virgin Voyages
Lars Clasen, CEO, Cruise Saudi
Minas Papadakis, CEO, Heraklion Port Authority S.A.
Loukas Sigalas, CEO, Minoan Lines
Aziz Gungor, Regional Director, East Med Ports, Global Port Holdings
Ioannis Pappas, Director, Med Region & EU Sustainable Destinations, GSTC
On Day One, discussions will focus on striking a balance between growing passenger demand and responsible tourism management, as well as fostering collaboration to introduce cruise travellers to emerging ports with marquee potential. With sustainable sea tourism at the forefront, the forum aims to shape a resilient and forward-thinking cruise landscape for the region.
Elisabetta de Nardo, Senior Vice President, Global Port Relations & Commercial Services, MSC Cruises, highlighted the forum’s significance: “The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a fantastic opportunity to exchange the knowledge that can help inform and shape our continued growth path. It is in the interests of all cruise lines, ports, destinations, and other tourism industry stakeholders to ensure we work together to address the issues facing us in the Mediterranean, such as ensuring frameworks are in place for the introduction of OPS, and the work underway to mitigate overcrowding, an issue of particular focus in the host nation, Greece. As Europe’s leading cruise line, MSC Cruises is committed to a co-operative approach towards responsible tourism, ensuring we meet the needs of our guests while protecting the destinations we visit and the marine environment on which we rely.”
One of the must-attend panel discussions on the opening day of PSTF 2025 is the "Small Ships" Panel, introducing a dynamic and rapidly growing market segment to the region. With increasing interest from major hotel conglomerates in ultra-luxury small cruise ships, this panel will explore how these vessels - perfectly suited for the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean - are reshaping the cruising experience.
Attendees will gain insights into how small cruise ships offer a more intimate and personalised onboard atmosphere, along with greater flexibility in itinerary design, allowing access to smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports. Industry experts will discuss the demand and future construction of these ships, operational challenges in serving remote destinations, and key factors that set this niche apart from mainstream cruising.
Spyros Almpertis, Vice President Port and Destination Operations at Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, commented: “We believe that the East Med will play a crucial role in our future plans, as we aim to provide our guests with unique opportunities to explore lesser-known ports while enjoying the highest standards of luxury. The PSTF 2025 is an invaluable forum for connecting with industry leaders and stakeholders. It provides opportunities for dialogue around sustainability, innovation and the future of the maritime industry - values that resonate deeply with the Ritz-Carlton brand. We are excited to introduce our new yacht collection to this dynamic region and are committed to delivering exceptional service while promoting responsible tourism practices that support local communities and preserve the delicate marine environment.”
The event’s dynamic exhibition floor will provide a prime networking space for regional destination stakeholders to connect with itinerary and excursion planners, as well as leading cruise industry executives keen to engage with both established and up-and-coming destinations looking to leverage the sector’s rapid expansion.
Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal, a regular PSTF participant, shared his vision: "The Central and Eastern Mediterranean remains a core region for Celestyal, with our beloved Iconic Greek Islands, Idyllic Greece, and Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia itineraries. Coupled with our fleetwide year-round operations now in place, we are excited to present our upgraded brand, enhanced services, and expanded itineraries. Our investment in both our fleet and guest experience underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional, destination-rich cruises. With our recent expansion into the Arabian Gulf, offering new year-round itineraries, we are thrilled to bring Celestyal’s signature experience to even more travellers. The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a great opportunity to connect with industry partners, explore new collaborations, and showcase our vision for the future. I am looking forward to meeting industry peers, partners, and local authorities to discuss the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsors Region of Crete and Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development (ODAP), Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority, Bronze sponsors Celestyal, Heraklion International Airport and Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority, Official Airline SKY express, and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism, and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece.
For additional information, Press inquiries should be directed to: Artemis Vamvakopoulou, Posidonia Press Officer, EXTROVERT | Business Communications | Tel: +30 210 6724265, Email: posidoniapress@extrovert.gr Maria Photou, Marketing & Events Coordinator, Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. | Tel: +30 210 4283608, Email: mphotou@posidonia-events.com
The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) will be held on May 6-7, 2025, in Heraklion, Crete, one of Greece's most renowned tourism and cruise destinations.
This year’s theme, "The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports and Destinations", highlights the urgent need for innovation and sustainability in cruise tourism. As Mediterranean cruise tourism continues its resurgence, industry leaders will gather to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the sector, with a particular focus on managing overcrowding and promoting emerging destinations.
In 2023, cruising returned to pre-pandemic year-round operations and generated a total global economic impact of $168.6 billion, an increase of 9% from 2019. A total of 31.7 million passengers cruised in 2023, marking a 7% increase from 2019’s 29.7 million passengers. The number of cruise passengers is estimated to have reached 32 million in 2024 and rise steadily in subsequent years, with an estimated 39.4 million passengers by 2027.
But cruising has recently come under intense scrutiny as an over-crowding factor in some of the Mediterranean’s most popular ports. Although many of these destinations, like Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Amsterdam and Santorini are already overwhelmed by conventional tourism, cruising is taking much of the blame.
"Overtourism in a number of cities and destinations throughout the Mediterranean is a reality that the industry needs to address", said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. "This year’s focus on new marquee ports and sustainability is more relevant than ever, as the Mediterranean continues to be one of the most dynamic and desirable cruise regions globally."
He added: "The cruise industry must reconsider its strategies for deployment, itinerary planning, and destination selection to help achieve a more sustainable balance. As the tourism sector with the highest scheduling flexibility, cruising has a unique opportunity to leverage the growing number of emerging port options within accessible distances, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean."
The President of MedCruise, Theodora Riga, who will be present in Crete, commented: "The industry is growing and as a result it is facing new challenges, which need to be addressed at an early stage. Mediterranean ports are an essential part of the industry and we strive to assure that increased cruise traffic is benefitting both the destination and the cruise industry, in a sustainable way. MedCruise intends to continue working with fellow associations representing cruise lines, ports, and destinations, as well as policy-makers, to lead initiatives in the sustainable growth of cruise activities in the Mediterranean and adjoining seas. The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will offer all stakeholders the opportunity to get together and explore solutions to these new challenges."
The Forum that will be held at the Mikis Theodorakis Convention Center and feature insights from industry experts, including executives from CLIA, MedCruise, and leading cruise lines.
Other topics that will be discussed during the event include:
- Adoption of green practices and solutions to address environmental challenges.
- Tourism innovation in the areas of marketing, guest satisfaction, and immersive experiences.
- Infrastructure through the showcasing of new port investments and effective berth allocation systems.
With its rich cultural heritage, excellent hospitality infrastructure, unique tourism offerings, and a thriving port, Heraklion is the ideal location to host this pivotal industry event.
Highlighting the capabilities of Heraklion Port and the significance of Crete as a cruise destination, Minas Papadakis, CEO of Heraklion Port Authority, stated: "Heraklion Port is undergoing substantial investments in infrastructure and services to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry. With state-of-the-art facilities, expanded berth capacity, and a strong commitment to sustainability, we are well-positioned to accommodate increased cruise activity."
"It is important to emphasize that many destinations, including Crete, possess the capacity to support additional cruise operations and homeporting. The opening of the new International Airport in 2027 is expected to further enhance this potential by facilitating homeporting opportunities in Heraklion. While overtourism is a valid concern for certain destinations, it should not overshadow the conversation, as there are numerous locations capable of serving as viable alternatives. Sustainability has always been a core objective of Crete’s tourism strategy, and we look forward to engaging with industry stakeholders in May to explore solutions to the challenges currently facing the cruise sector", he continued.
The total economic benefit of cruise tourism in Heraklion and the surrounding area during the period from May 2023 to May 2024 amounted to €60.2 million and supported 521 jobs.
The Forum will also feature a bustling exhibition floor, offering destinations and stakeholders the opportunity to connect with itinerary planners, showcase infrastructure projects, and strengthen industry partnerships. It will underscore the importance of collaboration among cruise executives, destination managers, and service providers to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for Mediterranean cruise tourism.
Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsor ODAP (Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development), Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority, Bronze sponsors Celestyal, Heraklion International Airport and Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority, Official Airline SKY express, and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism, and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece.
New Marquee Ports and Over-Tourism in the spotlight at Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum
The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) will be held on May 6-7, 2025, in Heraklion, Crete, one of Greece's most renowned tourism and cruise destinations.
This year’s theme, "The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports and Destinations", highlights the urgent need for innovation and sustainability in cruise tourism. As Mediterranean cruise tourism continues its resurgence, industry leaders will gather to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the sector, with a particular focus on managing overcrowding and promoting emerging destinations.
In 2023, cruising returned to pre-pandemic year-round operations and generated a total global economic impact of $168.6 billion, an increase of 9% from 2019. A total of 31.7 million passengers cruised in 2023, marking a 7% increase from 2019’s 29.7 million passengers. The number of cruise passengers is estimated to have reached 32 million in 2024 and rise steadily in subsequent years, with an estimated 39.4 million passengers by 2027.
But cruising has recently come under intense scrutiny as an over-crowding factor in some of the Mediterranean’s most popular ports. Although many of these destinations, like Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Amsterdam and Santorini are already overwhelmed by conventional tourism, cruising is taking much of the blame.
"Overtourism in a number of cities and destinations throughout the Mediterranean is a reality that the industry needs to address,” said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. "This year’s focus on new marquee ports and sustainability is more relevant than ever, as the Mediterranean continues to be one of the most dynamic and desirable cruise regions globally."
He added: "The cruise industry must reconsider its strategies for deployment, itinerary planning, and destination selection to help achieve a more sustainable balance. As the tourism sector with the highest scheduling flexibility, cruising has a unique opportunity to leverage the growing number of emerging port options within accessible distances, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean."
The President of MedCruise, Theodora Riga, who will be present in Crete, commented: "The industry is growing and as a result it is facing new challenges, which need to be addressed at an early stage. Mediterranean ports are an essential part of the industry and we strive to assure that increased cruise traffic is benefitting both the destination and the cruise industry, in a sustainable way. MedCruise intends to continue working with fellow associations representing cruise lines, ports, and destinations, as well as policy-makers, to lead initiatives in the sustainable growth of cruise activities in the Mediterranean and adjoining seas. The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will offer all stakeholders the opportunity to get together and explore solutions to these new challenges."
The Forum that will be held at the Mikis Theodorakis Convention Center and feature insights from industry experts, including executives from CLIA, MedCruise, and leading cruise lines.
Other topics that will be discussed during the event include:
- Adoption of green practices and solutions to address environmental challenges.
- Tourism innovation in the areas of marketing, guest satisfaction, and immersive experiences.
- Infrastructure through the showcasing of new port investments and effective berth allocation systems.
"With its rich cultural heritage, excellent hospitality infrastructure, unique tourism offerings, and a thriving port, Heraklion is the ideal location to host this pivotal industry event.
Highlighting the capabilities of Heraklion Port and the significance of Crete as a cruise destination, Minas Papadakis, CEO of Heraklion Port Authority, stated: "Heraklion Port is undergoing substantial investments in infrastructure and services to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry. With state-of-the-art facilities, expanded berth capacity, and a strong commitment to sustainability, we are well-positioned to accommodate increased cruise activity."
"It is important to emphasize that many destinations, including Crete, possess the capacity to support additional cruise operations and homeporting. The opening of the new International Airport in 2027 is expected to further enhance this potential by facilitating homeporting opportunities in Heraklion. While overtourism is a valid concern for certain destinations, it should not overshadow the conversation, as there are numerous locations capable of serving as viable alternatives. Sustainability has always been a core objective of Crete’s tourism strategy, and we look forward to engaging with industry stakeholders in May to explore solutions to the challenges currently facing the cruise sector", he continued.
The total economic benefit of cruise tourism in Heraklion and the surrounding area during the period from May 2023 to May 2024 amounted to €60.2 million and supported 521 jobs.
The Forum will also feature a bustling exhibition floor, offering destinations and stakeholders the opportunity to connect with itinerary planners, showcase infrastructure projects, and strengthen industry partnerships. It will underscore the importance of collaboration among cruise executives, destination managers, and service providers to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for Mediterranean cruise tourism.
Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsor ODAP (Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development), Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority, Bronze sponsors Celestyal, Heraklion International Airport and Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority, Official Airline SKY express, and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism, and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece.
For additional information, Press inquiries should be directed to:
Artemis Vamvakopoulou, Posidonia Press Officer, EXTROVERT | Business Communications, Tel: +30 210 6724265, Email: posidoniapress@extrovert.gr
Maria Photou, Marketing & Events Coordinator, Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., Tel: +30 210 4283608, Email: mphotou@posidonia-events.com