Mykonos is emerging as one of the most dynamic cruise destinations in the Mediterranean, according to the findings of a new Oxford Economics study presented by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
The research highlights the significant economic impact of cruise tourism on the island, as total revenue from cruise tourist spending on the Mykonos economy reached €201 million in 2024.
Mykonos, with its cosmopolitan character, remains consistently one of the most attractive destinations for international cruise itineraries. In 2024, almost 1.3 million transit passengers visited the island as a stopover, confirming the key role of Mykonos on the global cruise map.
The survey included 2,569 transit passengers, all international, reflecting the global appeal of the destination. The United States was the main source market with a percentage of 33%, followed by Italy (19%) and the United Kingdom (12%). Visitors from Canada, Australia, Germany and France also had a strong presence, highlighting Mykonos as a reference point for travelers from Europe, America and Oceania.
The study highlights the strategic importance of cruising in promoting the island to a new audience. Eight out of ten visitors stated that they were discovering Mykonos for the first time, while more than half were visiting Greece in general for the first time.
This confirms the role of cruises as a “gateway” for further tourism development, as many passengers later return as individual travelers.
Spending that strengthens the local market
Cruise ship passengers spent an average of 107 euros per person during their stay on the island, which lasted an average of 5.6 hours.
The majority of spending was on shopping, dining and tours, with total passenger and crew spending amounting to 126 million euros.
At the same time, cruise companies themselves spent an additional 33 million euros, contributing significantly to the island’s economic activity.
Shopping emerged as the top spending category, as 70% of passengers chose it, while 69% enjoyed food and drink in local stores. In addition, 31% of visitors participated in organized tours, confirming the growing interest in the cultural and natural beauties of Mykonos.
2,930 jobs and 46 million euros in wages
The cruise activity supported a total of 2,930 jobs in the region in 2024, almost half of which are in the retail and wholesale trade sector.
Workers employed directly or indirectly through cruise tourism generated 46 million euros in wages, boosting disposable income and the local market cycle.
The study, conducted by the international organization Oxford Economics on behalf of CLIA, aims to provide a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the economic benefits of cruise tourism in Mykonos. It is part of a broader global analysis, covering ten ports around the world.
