The Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, visited the offices of the Panhellenic Offshore Sailing Club (POIATH), in the context of strengthening maritime tourism and promoting the country as an internationally recognized nautical destination. The Minister met with the President of the Club, Mr. Ioannis Maragoudakis, and members of the Board of Directors. The meeting was also attended by the Secretary General of Tourism Policy and Development, Ms. Vasiliki Koutsoukou, and the Vice President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Mr. Konstantinos Zikos.
Focus on the “AEGEAN 600” – High-Prestige Nautical Sport in the Aegean
The occasion for the meeting was the upcoming holding of the international sailing race AEGEAN 600, which will take place this year on July 6, 2025. The race, which is now among the five most important of its kind worldwide, is a reference point for the global sailing map. Crossing the Aegean Sea and passing by islands of unique natural beauty and historical value, it offers a unique experience to participants and strengthens the image of Greece in the international tourist environment.
Promoting Greece as a top maritime tourism destination
During the visit, the long history and contribution of POIATH to the development of offshore sailing, through international events that combine sports with tourism, were discussed. The Minister of Tourism underlined the strategic importance of such events, stressing that they “highlight our country as a destination for marine tourism and nautical sports, enhancing the quality and diversification of the Greek tourism product”.
At the same time, she pointed out that the promotion of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Greek islands through major sporting events is a key pillar of the Ministry’s tourism policy.
Connecting tourism with culture and sports
The Minister noted that Greece has all the guarantees to play a leading role in the sector of marine tourism, while simultaneously exploiting the cultural and historical routes of the Aegean islands. Connecting tourism with sports and culture creates an integrated and sustainable development model, strengthening local communities and the national tourist identity.
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