The cruise sector is a success story for Greece.

As the country has become an established and significant cruise destination in Europe, both the Greek economy and local communities can benefit further from the sector’s continued growth. 
In 2023, cruise tourism generated total revenues of 2 billion euros for the Greek economy and contributed 1 billion euros to the Greek GDP, while supporting nearly 23,000 jobs with up to 500 million euros in wages. These figures, which are considerably higher than those
of 2022 and previous years, confirm the gradual growth of cruise tourism in Greece, which can be attributed in part to the dynamic increase of homeporting in the country. 
Homeporting brings significant economic benefits for any destination, increasing demand for guest accommodation at the embarkation port, both before and after the cruise. There are also the benefits of expenditures by passengers during their stay, including food, entertainment, and retail. Supplying, maintaining, and refuelling the ships results in additional jobs at homeports. 
The cruise sector has enabled Greek destinations to diversify revenues from tourism and has significantly contributed to bet- terplanned and expanded tourism activities all-year long. Cruise tourism also supports the growth of general tourism in Greece, as 6 out of 10 passengers return to the destinations they first visited on a cruise for longer vacations. These returning visitors tend to immerse themselves in the local experience, as they are mainly interested in 
the culture, local life and culinary experiences of the destinations they explore. 
Investments in port infrastructure, further expansion of homeporting activities and the emergence of new destinations, as well as the re- cent revitalization of shipyards in Greece and the potential for cruise shipbuilding in the country, are options that can further strengthen the already positive impact of cruise on the Greek economy. CLIA members are already using the Elefsis shipyard for maintenance and upgrades. 
This is the case not only for Greece but also for the broader Eastern Mediterranean region, which –despite current geopolitical challenges– remains a popular and promising cruise destination, drawing passengers from around the world with its amazing natural beauty and its unique cultural heritage. 
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and its member cruise lines actively support the growth of cruise tourism in the region, as it has brought significant benefits to national and local economies. Cruise tourism is one of the best-managed tourism products globally. Cruise itineraries are planned 2-3 years in advance, giving ample time to the destinations to organize activities around cruise arrivals and optimize their economic benefits. And as sustainable growth and responsible tourism remain top priorities for the cruise industry globally, cruise lines are committed to impactful collaboration with all cruise destinations in the region to ensure this growth is both sustainable and responsible. 
In this direction, CLIA’s Action Plan for Greece has proactively –and early enough– acknowledged that this growth may require adjustments in itineraries, port operations and infrastructure, improved destination management practices and enhanced communication and collaboration, to ensure sustainable, optimal experiences for communities and visitors. The Action Plan includes a holistic tourism management approach for highly popular destinations and sites, 
the adoption of berth allocation systems and local policies for the efficient scheduling of cruise ship arrivals & departures, the development of port infrastructure and berths to support better itinerary planning, and the exploration of new cruise destinations. 
At the same time, as an industry pursuing net zero emissions by 2050, cruise is a frontrunner in sustainability innovations, which not only benefit destinations and local communities but also the maritime sector as a whole. The cruise industry is investing billions of euros in new technologies and sustainable energy solutions that will be applicable across the maritime industry, and beyond.
The cruise sector is a key driver of sustainable growth for Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean and will continue to work closely with lo- cal authorities to ensure a sustainable tourism industry, that benefits visitors and residents alike. 
*Vice-President, Ports & Destinations, CLIA