Press Releases
2025
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
Leading Cruise Industry Event to Address Over-Tourism and Explore New Mediterranean Destinations, with Global Industry Leaders Set to Convene in Crete
The city of Heraklion will host the 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum next May, as the organizers of the East Med’s most important cruise conference, with the support of the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority and in collaboration with local authorities, prepare to bring this CONFEX event to the country’s largest island for the first time.
2025’s Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) will be held at the Creta Maris Resort Hotel, located in close proximity to Crete’s capital. Heraklion port is expected to see a 20% increase in cruise passenger numbers this year with an equally busy season expected in 2025.
With Piraeus, Santorini and Mykonos accounting for nearly 60% of all cruise activity in Greece, and many destinations in the Mediterranean calling for and some already adopting measures to limit over-tourism in popular destinations, the PSTF 2025’s theme, “The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports & Destinations” couldn’t be more topical. The event will bring global cruise industry decision-makers and industry organizations like Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and MedCruise, in touch with East Med’s stakeholders, to explore solutions and create new exciting itineraries going forward.
Alleviating pressure on overcrowded ports of call, exploring the potential of lesser-known and visited destinations for inclusion in cruise itineraries, and fostering dialogue on sustainable tourism practices are among the key themes to be tabled at the Forum and discussed with cruise executives who have extensive knowledge and operational knowhow of the Mediterranean.
“Topics to be discussed during the two-day conference will include sustainability, marketing and tourism product delivery, guest immersion and satisfaction, overcrowding, new destination entries, port infrastructure, green initiatives and solutions, effective berth allocation solutions, and daily caps on arrivals,” said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A.
In parallel to the thought-provoking panel discussions, the exhibition will feature and promote new and emerging cruise destinations, ports and related infrastructure, cruise companies, travel agencies, tourism consultants and cruise ship suppliers amongst others. The event’s exhibition floor will serve as the platform for the region’s destinations and stakeholders to meet with itinerary and excursion planners, while new port investments and other infrastructure projects, such as the new Heraklion Airport, currently in full swing will be showcased to the cruise industry.
Vokos added: “At the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, cruise executives and key stakeholders will have the opportunity to examine ways to secure a sustainable future for ultra-popular destinations, as well as seek a cooperative approach towards introducing cruise passengers to new or emerging ports of call with marquee potential.”
The Regional Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis said: “The Region of Crete actively supports the Posidonia Tourism Sea Forum for the cruise sector, which will be held for the first time in Crete. The presence of numerous cruise lines, specialized tourism agencies and organizations from around the world at the Forum poses a significant opportunity for the continued growth of cruising on the island, which will contribute to reducing seasonality and enhancing Crete's tourism products. It also showcases the island's rich historical, cultural, and environmental assets to visitors from across the globe.
It is with great joy and high expectations that we are preparing to host the forum, organized by the organizers of Posidonia, the most important maritime exhibition in the world. The selection of Heraklion was made in the context of the strategic choice of the Region of Crete for a strong, extrovert, sustainable and competitive tourism sector in Crete.”
Welcoming the selection of Heraklion for the 2025 Forum, Minas Papadakis, CEO, Heraklion Port Authority, Diamond sponsor of the event, noted: “We are excited to announce that the Heraklion Port Authority, with the support of the Prefecture of Crete, will be hosting the 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum 2025 in Heraklion. As we prepare for this prestigious event, we look forward to showcasing our port’s strategic capabilities and our commitment to sustainability and maritime innovation. The forum will offer a unique platform for fostering global partnerships and engaging in forward-thinking discussions that will shape the future of sea tourism. We look forward to welcoming the cruise industry to Heraklion to an event filled with valuable insights and collaboration.”
Significantly important for any port city is the economic impact of cruise activity for the local economy. One such port is Heraklion, where the direct economic impact of the cruising sector brought in €36.05 million to the local economy in the 12-month period ending May 2024, according to a University of Piraeus study.
According to the same study, 72% of cruise passengers who visited Heraklion would recommend it to friends and relatives as a destination of choice for holidays, with 29.1% saying that they would themselves revisit the city as conventional tourists.
During the 13 years since the Forum’s inception, Heraklion will become only the second city, outside Athens, to host the event following the successful 2023 event in Thessaloniki. Heraklion Port, its vibrant city and the Region of Crete are excited to welcome delegates and exhibitors to the May 6-7 Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum.
Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor - Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsor - ODAP (Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development), Bronze sponsor - Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsor – Thessaloniki Port Authority 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 meeting reaffirmed the structured dialogue between CLIA and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy and underscored a mutual commitment to cooperate towards the sustainable development of the cruise industry in Greece.
• CLIA highlighted its recommendation for a comprehensive, holistic management approach for highly popular ports and destinations, which remains essential to protect the local citizens and the guest experience
• CLIA confirmed the strong interest of cruise companies in enriching their itineraries with additional Greek destinations
Represented by Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General of CLIA in Europe, and Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA met Mr. Christos Stylianides, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy of Greece. The meeting reaffirmed the constructive dialogue between CLIA and the Ministry and a mutual commitment to cooperate towards the sustainable development of the cruising industry in Greece.
“Greece is a destination cruise market of major importance in Europe, and we wish to continue working together with the Greek government to protect the country’s uniqueness, to be a great place to live and to travel. Concretely, we first recognized this need last year when we launched CLIA’s cruise industry Action Plan for Greece, which aims to address challenges and opportunities for the sector for our mutual benefit”, said Marie-Caroline Laurent.
Maria Deligianni added, “Recently, the growth of tourism in Greece has garnered significant attention, particularly concerning the islands of Santorini and Mykonos. We were pleased to inform the Minister of our proactive engagement with local authorities to enhance cruise tourism practices and develop sustainable tourism strategies for these islands. This includes the commitment by CLIA cruise lines to uphold the daily cruise cap of 8,000 passengers in Santorini and the establishment of a berth allocation system in Mykonos, a priority for ports experiencing high levels of cruise traffic.”
Considering that 57% of cruise tourism in Greece (according to 2023 data) takes place in Piraeus, Santorini, and Mykonos, CLIA discussed with the Minister and the Secretary General of the Aegean and Insular Policy, Mr. Manolis Koutoulakis, the potential for expanding to new destinations elsewhere in Greece. CLIA confirmed the strong interest of cruise companies in enriching their itineraries with additional Greek destinations given the vast range of opportunities on offer.
The improvement and upgrade of port infrastructure and port services was also discussed, and it was noted that homeporting activities represent a great economic opportunity for the country, with around 70% of vessels calling in Greek ports homeporting this year.
The discussion also addressed the importance of the cruise line industry for European shipbuilding, with around 80% of the value of the orderbook of European shipyards represented by cruise ships. The recent revitalization of the Greek shipyards can represent a positive opportunity for the Greek economy with potential business opportunities in the cruise sector including, retrofit, maintenance and refurbishment.
Focusing on the decarbonization of the cruise sector, CLIA shared that it has commissioned a "Cruise Investment Plan”, a study which will identify the needs for port infrastructure, and alternative fuels to achieve our decarbonization goals, to be completed in early 2025.
CLIA also emphasized the need for a carefully considered adjustment period in the increase of port dues in Greek ports and for revision of the national law concerning tender boat operations.
The implementation of the EU Regulation establishing an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register entry and exit data and refusal of entry data of third-country nationals crossing the external borders of the Member States, which will enter into force in November this year, was also discussed during a meeting of the CLIA representatives with the Border Protection Directorate of the Greek Ministry of Civil Protection.
Marie-Caroline Laurent and Maria Deligianni also met with the newly appointed CEO of Piraeus Port Authority, Mr. Su Xudong, as well as with the CEO of Posidonia, Mr. Theodore Vokos, with whom they discussed the next Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, scheduled to take place in Heraklion on May 6-7, 2025.
About the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
CLIA is the world's largest cruise industry trade association, providing a unified voice for the industry as the leading authority of the global cruise community, with a membership comprising of 55 cruise lines, including 304 ocean going cruise ships, representing 95% of the cruise sector. On behalf of its members, affiliates and partners, the organization supports policies and practices that foster a secure, healthy, and sustainable cruise ship environment, promoting positive travel experiences for millions of travelers who cruise annually. This year, CLIA forecasts that the annual number of passengers will reach 34.7 million. The CLIA community includes the world's most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and a widespread network of stakeholders, including ports & destinations, ship development, suppliers, and business services. For further information, please visit cruising.org or europe.cruising.org.
For additional information, press inquiries may be directed to CLIA Press Office in Greece:
Ms Artemis Vamvakopoulou, EXTROVERT | Business Communications
Tel: +30 210 6724265, Email: cliapress@extrovert.gr
launching this summer under the guardianship of the A&K Travel Group with a new name and Crystal has also added Thessaloniki among its destinations in 2024 as a port of call.
- Crystal Symphony is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment in Trieste, Italy.
When the 606-passenger ship debuts later this summer, enhancements will include larger,
updated suites with artisanal finishes, cutting-edge onboard wellness and the recently announced new Aurōra Spa. Guests will also find a new look for specialty dining restaurants Umi Uma and Osteria d’Ovidio,
a new pickleball court, refreshed entertainment and events and an industry-leading space-to-guest ratio (1 to 93.1 cubic feet).