Press Releases
2025
- New cruise passenger tax due to come into force on 21 July 2025
- The fee is anticipated to fund infrastructure projects at key ports and destinations in Greece, enhancing conditions in established locations and facilitating growth in emerging destinations.
- Cooperation with local cruise destinations to support sustainable tourism remains a priority
3 July 2025 – The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the cruise community, representing 90% of the industry, notes the publication of the Decree implementing a new cruise passenger tax and commits to working with the Government on its implementation. CLIA’s announcement follows recent meetings with the Vice President of the Government Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis and the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Mr. Vassilis Kikilias and Tourism Minister Mrs. Olga Kefalogianni, where all parties agreed to create a joint working group as a channel for ongoing cooperation between CLIA and the two Ministries.
Bud Darr, President and CEO, CLIA said: “The cruise industry is committed to supporting the long- term success of Greece as one of the world’s most popular countries to visit. While introducing the tax during peak season presents operational challenges that could have been avoided with more notice, we are committed to contributing to the joint working group with the Government on implementation with a focus on ensuring the proceeds are reinvested in port infrastructure and local communities for the benefit of the country’s cruise tourism economy.” The announcement of the joint working group comes after concerns raised by CLIA about the rationale for the fee as well as operational challenges and commercial issues caused by its introduction during the middle of high season. In the meetings, the Government emphasized its commitment to developing emerging tourist destinations. The revenue generated from this new fee is anticipated to be a vital resource, enabling Greece to fully realize its potential as a premier cruise market. This strategy aims not only to diversify cruise itineraries but also to support small communities as cruising offers an opportunity for economic growth.
Mrs. Maria Deligianni, Regional Director, Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA commented: “We share the Government’s belief in the potential for cruise in alternative destinations based on sustainability. Within the framework of this joint working group, we look forward to exploring future collaborations with the participation of local authorities, chambers of commerce and tourism bodies. We remain committed to working with local cruise destinations to protect the uniqueness of Greece as a destination of global importance.” All parties have agreed that effective coordination between the cruise sector and the Government is essential for successfully implementing a cruise strategy in Greece. CLIA highlighted that important steps have already been taken in this direction. Mrs. Maria Deligianni, Regional Director, Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA commented: “Greece has seen an increase in tourism in recent years, and our priority has been to enhance cruise tourism management in popular destinations in coordination with local authorities.” She highlighted that: “In collaboration with the Santorini Municipal Port Authority, an improved berth allocation system was introduced this year to manage the distribution of cruise ship arrivals and passenger flows. A similar system has been implemented in Mykonos, in coordination with the Mykonos Municipal Port Authority. She concluded, “We will thoroughly assess the feasibility of these systems at the end of the season and propose any improvements necessary. As each destination is unique, it is important to tailor tourism management measures to the individual setting and circumstances.” Greece is extremely attractive to visit by cruise with its many islands and coastlines to explore and rich cultural heritage. It is important to broaden the geographic reach of cruise tourism in Greece. In 2024, more than half of all cruise activity was concentrated in just three ports - Piraeus, Santorini, and Mykonos. Yet the country is home to more than 40 cruise destinations. Encouraging diversification fosters more inclusive economic benefits for communities across islands and the mainland, but preparation and infrastructure are crucial to achieve this goal. At the same time, the cruise sector is dedicated to enhancing tourism in popular Greek destinations to benefit local communities and improve guest experiences. In 2024, Greece welcomed more than 40 million visitors, out of which 1,8 million (4.5%) came by cruise. Cruise has a long history in Greece bringing social and economic benefits to communities. Overall, the economic impact of cruise tourism in Greece in 2023 reached €2 billion, compared to 1.4 billion in 2022, and supported 22,600 jobs.
The total GDP amounted to €973 million. The impact is generated through four key activities:
• passenger spending, which contributed €540 million to Greek GDP, accounting for 55% of the cruise industry’s total impact in the country
• cruise line purchases which contributed €398 million to GDP
• ship- and capacity-building, which contributed €14 million of total GDP
• wage-linked spending of crew that reside in Greece, which contributed €21 million of total GDP
About the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the preeminent cruise trade association, providing a unified voice for the industry and its members as the leading authority of the global cruise community. CLIA represents oceangoing member lines which comprise more than 90% of global cruise passenger capacity, including the world’s most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines, as well as a business community of leading ports, destinations, shipyards and maritime product and service providers, and the largest network of travel professionals who specialise in cruise travel. Together with its members and partners, CLIA supports policies and practices that foster safe, secure, healthy and sustainable cruise operations; tourism strategies that maximise the socioeconomic benefits of cruise travel; and technologies and innovations designed to support the industry’s pursuit of net zero emissions by 2050. The organization's global headquarters are in Washington, DC, with regional offices located in North and South America, Europe, and Australasia.
For more information cliapress@extrovert.gr
- The economic contribution of cruising to the Greek economy reaches €2 billion, confirming the country's strong position as a leading destination in the Eastern Mediterranean
- The cruise industry continues to attract passengers of all ages, with Gen-X and Millennials leading the way.
- From family-friendly adventures to high-end cultural journeys, cruise lines are continuously innovating to fulfill the aspirations of global travelers.
- Steady and responsible industry growth continues with 37.7 million cruise passengers projected in 2025 and consumers showing strong intent to cruise – 82% of cruisers will cruise again and 68% of international travelers are considering taking their first cruise.
- With more than $168 billion in global economic impact and 1.6 million jobs supported, the value of cruise tourism to communities is clear.
Brussels, 2 June 2025 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise community, has released its annual State of the Cruise Industry report highlighting the industry’s vibrancy driven by travel trends, diversity of cruising choices, and innovative travel experiences aligned with increasing consumer demand.
“CLIA’s 2025 State of the Cruise Industry report shows that cruising continues to be one of the most dynamic and resilient sectors in tourism, growing in line with strong demand for cruise holidays, particularly among younger generations and new-to-cruise travelers,” said Bud Darr, President and CEO of CLIA. “The industry is also an essential economic driver, contributing over $168 billion to communities around the world, supporting 1.6 million jobs and investing tens of billions today in the sustainable fleet of the future.”
2025 Trends Showcasing a Vibrant Travel Sector
- First-time cruisers are driving growth with 31% of passengers in the last two years being new to cruise, reflecting the sector’s high satisfaction ratings and ability to attract new customers.
- Intent to cruise: 82% of those who have cruised plan to cruise again. Gen-X and Millennials are among the most enthusiastic cruisers, drawn to the variety of cruise experiences, ability to visit multiple destinations and value of a cruise holiday.
- Multi-generational travel: Cruise holidays offer experiences for all ages – nearly one third of cruise guests sail with three or more generations.
- Cruise travel earns higher satisfaction ratings compared to other holiday choices as shown in repeat factors – 25% of repeat cruisers sail two or more times per year; 14% of cruise travelers cruise twice a year; and 11% of cruisers take three to five cruises a year.
- Expedition and exploration cruises are the fastest-growing segments of cruise with 22% more passengers choosing these voyages in 2024 over 2023.
Cruising Features Choice, Value, and Sustainability
- Variety of choice: With over 300 ocean-going cruise ships and thousands of itineraries to choose from, there is a cruise for everyone. From family-friendly adventures to high-end cultural experiences to expedition journeys, the cruise industry is constantly evolving to fulfill the interests and aspirations of travelers.
- Responsible tourism: Cruise guests book their trips well in advance and cruise companies reserve port calls a year or more in advance, demonstrating that cruise tourism is managed tourism.
- Cruise is pursuing a variety of sustainable alternative energy sources and investing in propulsion technologies with conversion capabilities that can be adapted for use of low-to-zero-emissions fuels once they are available at scale.
- By 2028, 50% of all new cruise ship capacity will have engines that can run on LNG/methanol and are able to switch to bio- or synthetic-LNG with little or no engine modifications.
- More than 61% of CLIA’s fleet is equipped to be able to connect to onshore power, a figure set to reach 72% by 2028.
Important Economic Contribution
While only 2% of global travel and tourism, the cruise sector has a significant economic impact in communities around the world, generating $168 billion in global economic impact in 2023 – the highest on record. In the U.S, the cruise industry supported over $65 billion in total economic impact in 2023, supporting 290,000 jobs and $25 billion in wages and salaries. In Europe, the cruise industry supported €55 billion in total economic output in 2023, supporting 440,000 jobs.
Cruise tourism made a significant contribution to the Greek economy as well this year, confirming the sector’s strong growth momentum in the region. Specifically, in 2023, cruise tourism contributed a total of €2 billion to the Greek economy (compared to €1.4 billion in 2022), primarily from passenger spending and cruise companies' operational expenses. It also supported 22,600 jobs in the country (compared to 14,300 in 2022).
Greece is a key cruise hub in the Mediterranean, both as a popular destination and for homeporting – with Piraeus playing a leading role in this area. The country is successfully capitalizing on the strong growth of the cruise industry in the Eastern Mediterranean region, which in 2024 welcomed 1.86 million cruise passengers from around the world, compared to 1.54 million in 2023. Of these, 1.1 million came from Europe – up from 966,000 in 2023.
In addition, the cruise industry’s impact benefits communities around the world through local sourcing of goods and services, and spending before and after each cruise as 69% of passengers stay one or more nights in a hotel. Additionally, 6 in 10 cruisers return to a destination they first visited by cruise, extending the economic impact of cruising to communities well into the future.
- The global cruise industry welcomed 34.6 million cruise passengers in 2024, with 37.7 million expected in 2025.
- Europe remains a key market, with a +2.8% increase in European source passengers in 2024.
- The top five European source markets are Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and France.
- In 2024, close-at-home cruising remained attractive, with the Mediterranean region staying the most popular destination for European cruise passengers, followed by the Caribbean and Northern Europe.
- CLIA member lines will welcome 11 new ships to the global fleet in 2025; 56 new CLIA member ocean-going ships are on order from 2025-2036, representing a $56.8 billion investment and proof of the confidence in cruising’s future.
- To put the industry growth in context, over 70% of cruise ships are small to mid-size – both now and through the 2030 orderbook.
To view the full 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook report, visit here.
See CLIA’s full Contribution of Cruise Tourism to the Global Economy 2023 report here.
Forum’s Day 2 tackles bottlenecks in port infrastructure, community impact, and the need for cruise lines and local authorities to realign priorities.
How can ports built for a bygone era keep up with 21st-century cruise ships - and the millions of tourists they bring? That question dominated the second day of the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum in Heraklion, Crete, as industry leaders, port operators, and local authorities tackled a trio of challenges: infrastructure bottlenecks, community pressures, and the urgent need for better alignment between cruise lines and destinations.
During a dynamic discussion, ‘Cruise Ports: Can Infrastructure Keep Up With Demand?’ the burning issues of port suitability, berth availability, and local community integration were tabled to a panel of experts from some of the world’s biggest cruise lines, port authorities, and terminal operators.
“Ports were built for ships fifty years ago - vessels today are a different beast entirely,” said Manolis Alevropoulos, VP, Marine Operations, Celebrity Cruises - Royal Caribbean Group. “We need to upgrade port infrastructure across the board, and we must do it while helping the communities we work in. From waste management to freshwater generation and clean shore energy, the technology already exists - it’s time to deploy it, especially in the Med, where we’ve got wind, sun and waves year-round.”
Isabelle Côté, International Terminal Operations Management Consultant, Virgin Voyages, emphasised the urgency of interim solutions: “The long-term plans are important, but what about now? We need quick wins - smarter, creative refurbishments and adjustments to ease pressure while we wait for major redevelopments to catch up.” She added, “Waste management, better recycling systems and rethinking our guest experience - helping them be more like travellers and less like tourists - are ways to act now, not later.”
For Aziz Güngör, Regional Director, East Med Ports, Global Ports Holding, the challenge is as much bureaucratic as it is physical: “Even technology can’t always fix congestion when infrastructure falls short. Local engagement, streamlined regulations and environmental responsibility are key to long-term success - and they all take time, planning and community buy-in.”
Minas Papadakis, CEO, Heraklion Port Authority, spoke candidly about the transformation of Greek ports and the scale of the challenges involved: “Ports are no longer just passenger or cargo hubs - they are evolving into energy hubs, and that shift requires enormous capital investment, smart planning, and a modernised legal framework. For ports like Heraklion, which are close to urban centres, this is especially sensitive. The local community sees itself not just as a stakeholder, but as a shareholder in the port’s future. That means every step we take - in master planning, redevelopment, or investment - must be taken with public trust in mind.”
He also pointed to the financial and operational strain caused by berth cancellations from cruise lines: “We are actively considering implementing cancellation fees for berths that are booked at the start of the season but later released. These last-minute cancellations create inefficiencies, disrupt planning, and represent lost opportunities for both the port and the local economy. Cruise lines must share the responsibility for sustainable port operations.”
“It’s a paradox: today, it’s easier to build a cruise ship than the port it docks at,” said Gianluca Suprani, Senior VP, Port Development, MSC Cruises. “We support OPS [onshore power supply] initiatives, especially near urban ports, and we want berth allocation systems to be transparent and publicly accessible. With half of our guests disembarking for excursions, better coordination with local authorities is essential to avoid congestion and preserve the destination experience.”
Adam Sharp, Deputy Deal Director, Cruise Terminals International, summed up the discussion in stark terms: “Part of the solution is simply acknowledging there’s a problem.”
One of the highlights of the event included the announcement of a two-year strategic partnership between the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum and MedCruise. Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. said: “We would like to thank MedCruise for their constant support of PSTF, as they were one of the first organisations to recognise our commitment to promote the cruise industry an create a platform conducive to the strengthening of relations between Mediterranean ports and the industry, and today we formalise this long-term collaboration with a strategic agreement that binds us to work together for many PSTFs to come in the future.” MedCruise’s presence at this year’s PSTF was again strong, with both President Theodora Riga and the Secretary General Nicky Guerrero joining panel discussions and providing insight into the ports’ perspective.
The second panel of Day 2 of the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, ‘Cruise Lines & Destinations: ‘The Need for an Earnest Dialogue’ picked up where the first left off: with a call to action for deeper cooperation between cruise lines and destinations. In a standout panel, speakers tackled what one participant described as the lingering disconnect between visitor satisfaction and community wellbeing. What emerged wasn’t just a series of soundbites, but a compelling roadmap for a more collaborative, sustainable future.
Ligia Balea, Product Manager, Shore Excursions, Carnival Cruise Lines, opened the discussion with a ground-level perspective: “Small innovations can go a long way,” she said, pointing to curated cultural experiences that not only delight guests but strengthen local economies. “In some destinations, we receive real-time community feedback that helps us adjust and improve shore excursions. When local vendors and operators are involved in designing experiences, the result is more than a tour - it’s a shared story. This isn’t just business; it’s about giving back.”
Dimitris Bekos, Head of Greece, Cyprus, Egypt & UAE, Intercruises, expanded on this theme, urging the industry to confront the growing unease among residents in popular cruise destinations. “There’s real concern about our environmental footprint and the impact of cultural dilution when thousands of guests arrive at once,” he said. “We need to be more mindful. Immersive, community-centric tours are one answer. They allow us to diversify our offerings while creating meaningful connections between guests and locals.”
Bekos’ comments bridged the environmental and social aspects of sustainability, suggesting that authentic cultural experiences are also a tool for preservation.
From a more operational angle, Michele Bosco, Manager, Shore Excursion & Operations, Princess Cruises, focused on the logistics that can make or break destination experiences.
“There are practical ways to ease the pressure,” he noted. “Staggering ship arrivals, avoiding port calls during major local events, or simply extending stays from one to two days - these changes spread the flow of excursions and reduce congestion.”
Taking a step back, Alessandro Carollo, Associate VP, Government Relations, Royal Caribbean Group, highlighted a structural challenge: the fragmented nature of destination governance. “Often, we’re not speaking to one unified voice,” he explained. “Tourism boards, port authorities, municipalities - they don’t always align. Before meaningful collaboration with cruise lines can begin, destinations must first align internally. Only then can they articulate what they want to achieve - be it sustainability, guest flow management, or economic development.”
Carollo’s point was clear: effective dialogue must be preceded by local coherence. Only when destinations define their identity can they invite the cruise industry into a productive conversation.
Finally, Thanos Pallis, Professor, Maritime & Port Economics, Department of Maritime Studies, University of Piraeus, grounded the discussion in pragmatism and data.
“We need less buzzwords and more facts,” he said bluntly. “Long-term stability in sea tourism depends on sound planning, and for that we need data - shared, accessible, and understood by all stakeholders. It’s the only way we’ll move from reactive adjustments to proactive strategies.”
The second and final day of the Forum also included parallel sessions on ‘Coastal & Short Sea Shipping and ‘Yachting & Marinas, to examine the evolution of maritime transport towards greener practices and the development of marina infrastructure to support the growing yachting sector.
The afternoon concluded with the ‘YES to Sea Tourism Forum’ session, focusing on youth engagement and education in the maritime sector. This session underscored the importance of nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals and fostering a culture of sustainability and innovation within the industry.
Backed by the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority, and organised by Posidonia Exhibitions, PSTF 2025 is doing more than spotlighting best practices; it's setting the agenda. As the Mediterranean cruise sector seeks its future compass points—collaboration, resilience, and sustainability—forums like PSTF are essential landmarks on the map.
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 Five Senses Consulting & Development, Minoan Lines, and Thessaloniki Port Authority, Supporters Heraklion International Airport and Creta Interclinic, Official Airline SKY express, and is organised 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.
Collaboration, innovation, and adaptability cited as the core keys to Balancing Growth and Preserving Destinations
The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) opened today in the port city of Heraklion, Crete, marking a pivotal moment in the Mediterranean’s cruise tourism landscape. Hosted for the first time on Greece’s largest island, the forum brought together over 200 senior executives, policy makers, port authorities, and tourism experts to explore the future of sustainable sea tourism under the theme: “The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports & Destinations.”
The opening session featured welcoming remarks from key government and regional figures, including Minas Papadakis, CEO of the Heraklion Port Authority; Anna Karamanli, Greece’s Deputy Minister of Tourism; Stavros Arnaoutakis, Governor of the Region of Crete; and Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport & Tourism.
In his keynote address, Commissioner Tzitzikostas framed the magnitude of the opportunity- and the challenge - facing the cruise sector:
“In Greece alone, there were almost 5,500 cruise port calls in 2024, bringing around eight million passengers to our shores. That’s a remarkable number that reflects how vital this sector is to our national and regional economies. But growth cannot come at the expense of sustainability. Competitiveness and environmental responsibility must go hand-in-hand if we are to secure a future for the next generation of travellers.”
He also drew attention to the changing values of the cruise market’s emerging demographics:
“Interest in cruise holidays among young people has risen by more than 55% in the past five years, showing a renewed appetite for the experience. At the same time, environmental awareness is surging- concerns about the cruise industry’s impact on the planet have grown by 32% among this same group. We must listen and respond.”
The Commissioner announced the EU’s forthcoming Ports Strategy, due to be unveiled later this year:
“This comprehensive plan will focus on strengthening the competitiveness of European ports while advancing sustainability, accelerating the energy transition, improving working conditions, and increasing resilience to geopolitical and economic disruptions. Crucially, the cruise industry will be an essential voice in developing and implementing this strategy.”
He concluded with a strong message of balance: “We understand that without competitiveness, there is no sustainable future. I will do everything in my power to ensure that our green policies are designed to enhance—not hinder—the strength of this vital industry.”
The panel session that followed - “Balancing Growth and Sustainability in Mediterranean Cruise Tourism” - delved deep into the pressing issues affecting popular destinations, including visitor congestion, infrastructure strain, and the need to support local communities.
Julie Green, Deputy Director General of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), challenged the public narrative about overtourism: “Cruise tourism makes up just 2% of global tourism numbers, yet it drives significant economic impact - nearly US$50 billion annually across Europe. In Greece alone, that figure stands at about US$2 billion. We need to reframe the conversation: cruises are not the cause of overcrowding - they are often the most regulated and manageable form of tourism.”
Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise and of Corfu Port Authority, emphasised the need for data and local engagement to build trust: “In Santorini, only around 5% of visitors arrive by cruise ship, yet cruise passengers often bear the blame for congestion. We must better communicate the facts and demonstrate the socio-economic benefits. In Corfu, for instance, cruise tourism supports approximately 1,500 jobs every year. When communities are equipped with that understanding, collaboration replaces conflict, and harmony can be achieved.”
Chris Theofilides, CEO of Celestyal, called for more precision in how the industry defines and addresses congestion: “We need to stop using vague or sensationalist terms like ‘overtourism.’ The real issue is peak-time clustering. Cruise guests often make up a small fraction of daily visitors in these destinations. By collaborating with port authorities, municipalities, and tour operators, and by leveraging smart technology, we can better manage arrivals and create a more balanced, enjoyable experience for all.”
Kerry Anastassiadis, Senior Advisor for Institutional and Maritime Affairs, MSC Group, outlined a strategic approach that combines innovation with community care: “Our industry’s long-term health depends on three things: effective capacity management, genuine engagement with local communities, and the strategic development of alternative destinations. We’ve seen progress - ports like Mykonos and Santorini are applying berth allocation systems that ease pressure on infrastructure. But this must go further. We must sit down with mayors, local chambers, and residents to co-create holistic tourism models that deliver lasting value - not just volume.”
Following the opening panel, the forum turned its attention to the evolution of sea tourism with a dynamic discussion on the future of cruise destination development. Senior executives from established cruise lines and emerging markets explored how the industry is adapting to meet new traveller expectations while navigating sustainability challenges and regional opportunities.
One of the central themes was the rise of private islands as marquee ports of call—particularly their ability to offer controlled, high-quality experiences while also integrating meaningfully with local culture and economies.
Marcus Puttich, Director of Destinations, TUI Cruises, highlighted how private destination models can successfully coexist with immersive regional tourism. TUI has recently begun including private island calls in its Arabian Sea itineraries, and Puttich believes the model holds promise for this region. “If you do it correctly and tie it into the culture and tourism appeal of the area, it can be quite a successful offering,” he said.
Ana Karina Santini, Associate VP, International Destination Development, Royal Caribbean Group offered a more cautious view, noting that while private islands transformed the Caribbean cruise experience, replicating the model in the Mediterranean - or other European regions - presents unique challenges. From sustainability pressures to infrastructure limitations, the private island concept may not translate easily. “No one has demonstrated yet that this may be possible,” she said, highlighting the many unknowns facing developers looking to apply this model elsewhere.
Sandi Weir, Senior Director, Global Government Relations & Public Affairs, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), underscored the broader benefits of private island developments. She described how the company’s operations in The Bahamas and Belize have created meaningful employment for surrounding communities - from engineers to skilled tradespeople - helping to anchor local economies beyond just tourism. “The benefits for the local communities go in all different directions,” she said, suggesting a blueprint for how cruise tourism can be a catalyst for inclusive growth.
The session also touched on the shifting demographics of cruise travellers, particularly the rising expectations of younger generations who value sustainability and cultural connection. This trend is already influencing how cruise lines design itineraries, develop destinations, and invest in future growth.
Barbara Buczek, Chief Destination Experiences Officer, Cruise Saudi, noted that Saudi Arabia’s uniquely young population - almost 70% under the age of 35 - is redefining how cruise travel is discovered and consumed in the Kingdom. “The way our youth engage with travel is very different from traditional markets,” she explained. “We’re seeing click-through rates driven by ads placed in food delivery apps, and a growing trend of extremely late bookings. There’s also a noticeable rise in solo travel and demand for immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences. This generation wants to travel deeper, faster, and further—they’re seeking meaningful journeys, not just typical vacations.”
The “Small Ships” panel explored the rising trend of boutique cruising, discussing how smaller vessels can offer personalized experiences and access to lesser-known ports, thereby contributing to the diversification of cruise itineraries. Spyros Almpertis, VP, Port and Destination Operations, Guest Port Services, The Ritz- Carlton Yacht Collection; Aleksander Bieniek, VP, Marine Operations, Star Clippers; Adria Bono, Director, Destination Experiences, Crystal Cruises; Elisabetta De Nardo, Senior VP Global, Port Relations & Commercial Services, MSC Cruises – Explora Journeys; and Constantine Venetopoulos, Brand Director, Variety Cruises exchanged views on the role smaller vessels will play in the further growth of the cruise industry.
Stavros Arnaoutakis, Governor of the Region of Crete, said: “This world-renowned event opens a great window of opportunity for Crete, strengthening our joint effort to promote the island as a top destination in the cruise sector. Crete, equipped with quality and modern infrastructure and a focus on sustainable tourism, continues its journey across the world’s seas.
The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) has established itself as the leading platform for dialogue, strategy, and collaboration in the Eastern Mediterranean cruise and yachting sectors. Now in its 8th edition, PSTF 2025 convenes key industry players - from cruise lines and port authorities to policymakers and tourism professionals - to explore sustainable pathways for the future of sea tourism.
The first day of the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum ended with optimism, determination, and a shared sense of responsibility to shape a cruise industry that supports both economic development and cultural preservation across the Mediterranean.
The forum continues tomorrow with more high-impact panels, regional workshops, and private roundtables on topics such as regulatory evolution, innovation in ship design, and strengthening regional cooperation.
Backed by the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority, and organized by Posidonia Exhibitions, the forum is more than just a conference - it’s a catalyst for industry evolution. Its two-day program features keynote addresses, high-level panels, and networking sessions designed to spark actionable ideas and cross-sector collaboration. As the cruise industry rebounds post-pandemic and sets ambitious new benchmarks for growth and environmental responsibility, PSTF continues to serve as the essential meeting point for shaping the future of sea tourism in the Mediterranean and beyond.
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 Five Senses Consulting & Development, Minoan Lines, and Thessaloniki Port Authority, Supporters Heraklion International Airport and Creta Interclinic, Official Airline SKY express, and is organised 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.
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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
This International Women’s Day (Saturday March 8, 2025) Sailors' Society launched a helpline that ensures female seafarers have access to a trusted, female-led support system whenever they need it.
Female cadets and seafarers can choose to speak in confidence to a female on the 24/7 helpline offered by global maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society.
The service, which will provide emotional support, crisis assistance, and peer-to-peer connections for female seafarers and cadets worldwide, is being funded by international marine insurance provider, Skuld.
Sailors’ Society’s CEO, Sara Baade, said: “This is a big step forward in our care and support for female cadets and seafarers – a much-needed service in an industry where female seafarers are a striking minority. We’re grateful for Skuld’s support in making this a reality.
“Being a seafarer is challenging. But there are unique challenges to being a female seafarer and we know some women may feel more comfortable speaking to another woman. This helpline, along with our female Peer-to-Peer Support Groups, allows them to lean on other women who understand what they are going through.”
Ståle Hansen, President and CEO, of Skuld said: “Supporting this valuable initiative by Sailors’ Society aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive maritime industry.
“Last October, Skuld colleagues from all our global offices participated in the Skuld Walking for Seafarers week, during which we successfully raised funds to support Sailors’ Society in establishing this important helpline.
“Our industry must work together to increase gender equality and attract a diverse workforce to ensure it stays competitive in an uncertain world where female seafarers remain a significant minority. Together, we can create a safer environment for all women at sea.”
Find out more HERE
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, Celestyal
Theodora 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
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
Thessaloniki will serve as a homeport for Crystal Symphony in 2025 as Crystal becomes the first high-end international cruise line to use the port for full turnarounds.
Crystal additionally will make transit calls in 2024.
Culture, gastronomy and infrastructure
‘... For Crystal, the choice of Thessaloniki as a homeporting destination is a strategic decision, which affirms our commitment to offering exceptional experiences to our passengers,' said Spyros Almpertis, VP port operations and itinerary planning & fuel management. 'We are confident that the tourism, cultural and gastronomic opportunities of Thessaloniki, combined with the high-quality infrastructure and services of its port, will provide ideal memories to Crystal Symphony guests.’
Continuing to invest
Theodora Riga, Port of Thessaloniki’s CCO & director of strategic communications, described the ‘significant development’ as opening a new chapter for the port, enhancing its position in the international cruise sector. ‘At the same time, this development will enhance the tourism product of the city of Thessaloniki, generating major added value for the local economy and society,’ she added. ‘We dynamically continue our investments in the Port of Thessaloniki, to further upgrade our facilities and promote the city of Thessaloniki as a leading sea tourism destination.’
Crystal Symphony
Crystal Symphony is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment in Trieste. Enhancements will include larger, updated suites with artisanal finishes, cutting-edge wellness facilities and the recently announced new Aurōra Spa. Passengers 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 a space-to-passengers ratio of 1 to 93.1 cubic feet.