With three consecutive high-profile events in Thessaloniki, Kavala, and Syros, MSC Cruises and the luxury brand Explora Journeys confirmed their strategic commitment to strengthening cruising in Greece. The company’s dynamic presence in 20 Greek ports and more than 470 annual arrivals reflects its solid investment in the country, with multiple benefits for tourism and local economies.
Thessaloniki: Prospect of becoming a home port
The first event took place on Wednesday, June 25, at the port of Thessaloniki, focusing on the luxury Explora I. MSC Cruises executives, representatives of the Local Government, and tourism bodies discussed the city’s potential to become a home port of the Eastern Mediterranean. Ms. Elisabetta De Nardo, Senior Vice President of MSC Cruises, presented the company’s global presence and strong investment in the Greek market with eight ships this year.
Mr. Kyriakos Anastasiades, Senior Advisor for Institutional and Maritime Affairs, stressed that Thessaloniki has all the characteristics to develop into a departure port, provided there is a coordinated national strategy. He underlined that the sustainable development of cruising requires modern port and tourism infrastructure, as well as cooperation with local communities.
Reference was also made to the imposition of a tourist tax on cruises, with Mr. Anastasiades pointing out that such a measure can only be effective if accompanied by transparency and investments in infrastructure. The Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism of Central Macedonia, Ms. Vicky Hatzivassiliou and the CEO of the ThPA S.A. Mr. Yannis Tsaras expressed their support for the port’s prospects.
Kavala: On the map of luxury cruising
The second event took place on Thursday, June 26, at the port of Kavala, with the Explora I marking the city’s gradual entry into the luxury cruise market. The Deputy Mayor for Tourism and Development, Mr. Panagiotis Angelidis, underlined the importance of extroversion for the economic and tourist development of the region, while Ms. Korina Ganitou noted the momentum that such arrivals bring to the Kavala brand.
Mr. Angelos Vlachos, CEO of the Kavala Port Authority, stressed the need for responsible development of cruising, with respect for local communities, sustainable practices, and strengthening the economy with a social dimension.
Syros: Showcasing Authentic Experiences
The third event took place in Syros on Tuesday, July 1, with MSC Lirica hosting local authorities and organizations, highlighting the strategic position of the Cyclades in cruising. Ms. Marialuisa Iaccarino, Vice President of Excursions at MSC Cruises, presented the company’s new philosophy that focuses on authentic experiences, beyond the classic sights, through collaborations with local organizations, schools, and cultural organizations.
The event also included a performance by the Lyceum of Greek Women, offering passengers the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Syros. The exchange of souvenirs was attended, among others, by the Deputy Governor of Cyclades, Mr. Giorgos Leontaritis, the Mayor of Syros – Ermoupolis, Mr. Alexandros Athanasiou, and the President of the Port Fund, Mr. Frangiskos Vakondios.
Sustainable Development Strategy
MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, headquartered in Geneva, continue to invest in Greece, seeking to highlight new destinations, sustainable development, and enhance the guest experience. Their long-term strategy focuses on the diversification of itineraries, cooperation with local communities, and sustainability, with the aim of making Greece a stable reference point on the international cruise map.
