Greek Cruise Industry Sets New Records in 2024, Over 10% Growth Expected for 2025

• 31 March, 25

The Greek cruise industry set a new record in 2024, surpassing the previous year’s figures in total visitor arrivals across 48 Greek ports, as reported by the Hellenic Ports Association (ELIME). The industry’s growth continues, with forecasts predicting a 10 percent increase in arrivals for 2025, according to the association.

In 2024, Greece welcomed 5,490 cruise ship arrivals and 7.9 million passengers — a 5 percent increase in ship arrivals and a 13.2 percent increase in passengers compared to 2023. This marks a significant leap from the 2023 record, which saw 5,230 arrivals and 7 million passengers.

The continued success of Greece’s cruise sector highlights the country’s enduring appeal as a premier cruise destination. According to ELIME, the growth is attributed to the collaborative efforts of cruise lines, ports, government bodies, and local communities. Pre-bookings suggest this upward trend will continue into 2025.

Leading cruise destinations in Greece

Piraeus, Greece’s largest port, remains the dominant hub, welcoming approximately 1.73 million cruise passengers. It is followed by Santorini (1.35 million), Mykonos (1.29 million), Corfu, Heraklion, Rhodes, and Katakolo.

In terms of ship calls, Piraeus led with 810, followed by Mykonos (768), Santorini (750), Corfu, Rhodes, Heraklion, and Patmos.

Most ports saw notable passenger increases compared to 2023, with Piraeus recording the highest growth, adding 230,000 visitors (15.33 percent increase), followed by Mykonos (+100,229, or 8.40 percent), Chania (+62,202, or 29 percent), Santorini (46,869, or 4 percent), and Katakolo (10,168, or 5 percent).

Homeporting growth drives economic impact

Homeporting, where cruises begin and end at a port, continues to play a crucial role in Greece’s cruise sector, according to ELIME’s data.

Piraeus led in homeporting, with 635 arrivals and 1.11 million passengers. Other notable homeporting locations include Corfu (54 arrivals, 196,057 passengers), Heraklion (36 arrivals, 135,559 passengers), Lavrio (102 arrivals, 132,135 passengers), and Thessaloniki (30 arrivals, 18,285 passengers).

The Hellenic Ports Association highlights that cruising is a vital driver of both local and national economic growth.

“Ongoing investments in port infrastructure and the expansion of homeporting capabilities will support the continued rise of Greece as a global cruise hub,” the association noted.

Cre: news.gtp.gr