By Viki Tryfona
Antonis Karatzis is preparing to add another 600 beds to Nana Beach in Hersonissos, with the Municipal Committee giving unanimous – and conditional – approval to the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) regarding the modernization and expansion of the unit. The increase in capacity from 1,004 to 1,604 beds marks one of the largest hotel upgrades currently underway in Crete.
The EIA concerns a modification of an older study, as the complex has already been expanded and now has 500 rooms, numerous sports facilities, a desalination plant, modern biological treatment and parking spaces, in a total area of ??59,858 sq m, outside the settlement limits and protected areas.
The Municipality’s strict conditions: removal of unauthorized structures and a free beach
The EIA evaluation brought to the fore a series of issues that needed to be regulated. Unauthorized constructions were identified on the shore and the beach, while the beach zone had not been granted for common use by a notarial deed. At the same time, the regularization of unauthorized structures that increased the building was not accompanied by a land contribution, as foreseen.
The Municipal Committee of Hersonissos set clear conditions, the removal of all unauthorized constructions, the concession of the beach for common use, the preparation of an act of proportionality and the payment of the required contributions in land and money.
Only with full compliance with these steps will the environmental licensing proceed.
Strong financial performance: +16% in revenues in 2024
The Karatzis group continues its upward trajectory in the hotel sector. In 2024, the portfolio included the Villas Nana Princess (photo), five luxury villas that were implemented with an investment of 5 million euros and financing from the Recovery Fund.
In the meantime, as of this year, the group operates the “Nana Royal”, the former Knossos Royal acquired by the Aldemar group for 80 million euros. This is the group’s third privately owned five-star complex, with 413 rooms and suites. Its full renovation, also included in the TAA, is expected to be completed in 2026.
In addition, the group is launching the construction of an innovative thematic water park, in the immediate vicinity of Nana Royal. The project, with a budget of 16 million euros, is planned to become a new tourist attraction for Anissaras, strengthening the positioning of the area as a hub of luxury hospitality in Eastern Crete.
These investments constitute a comprehensive strategic development plan that aims to elevate the “Nana” brand to an international point of reference in luxury tourism. With three more five-star privately owned complexes —Nana Golden Beach, Nana Princess, Nana Royal— and with new projects in progress, the group is strengthening its presence in the high segment of the market.
In addition, new investments in luxury and city hotels are being considered, further expanding the portfolio.
Expansion into the sky: Investments in private aviation
The group is not limited to hotel investments. Through the company PANHELLENIC MON. S.A., it is simultaneously strengthening its activity in private VIP flights. In early 2025, a third aircraft was acquired, with an investment of 5.5 million euros, while the purchase of a fourth is already being considered to meet the growing demand.
