The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) presented a proposal for a National Cruise Development Plan at an event today, where the economic and environmental benefits of cruise tourism for Greece were highlighted, along with the launch of “The Voyage”, a new exhibition on sustainable cruise tourism in collaboration with the Eugenides Foundation.
According to the Association, 55% of cruise activity in Greece is currently concentrated in three ports — Piraeus, Santorini, and Mykonos, underlining the need for strategic planning and the development of new destinations. Greece has over 40 cruise ports across the mainland and islands.
Proposal for a National Cruise Development Plan
“We support the efforts of the Greek Government to enhance the visitor experience and to develop new destinations,” emphasized Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s Eastern Mediterranean Director, adding:
“We believe that using the new cruise fee to support this goal can help spread the benefits of cruise tourism more widely, allowing for balanced and sustainable growth and strengthening Greece’s role as a leading cruise hub.”
Ms. Deligianni presented CLIA’s proposal for the creation of a National Cruise Development Plan, accompanied by a clear timeline for investments and support for new destinations in Greece.
The plan’s goal is to ensure a balanced distribution of tourism benefits across more destinations, improve port infrastructure, and encourage investments that enhance sustainability and the visitor experience.
“As we propose,” she said, “the plan should be developed jointly by the Greek Government and the cruise industry through dialogue. Its implementation would be financed by revenues from the cruise fee, taking into account each destination’s needs in terms of port infrastructure, development, and promotional activities.”
CLIA, representing over 90% of global cruise passenger capacity, also presented new data showing that the cruise sector acts as a catalyst for economic growth and responsible tourism in Greece.
(Results from Oxford Economics’ study on cruise tourism in Mykonos were presented, showing €201 million in revenues for 2024.)
The Role of Knowledge and Sustainability
Leonidas Dimitriadis-Evgenidis, President of the Eugenides Foundation and IMO Goodwill Ambassador, stressed the need for development that respects both the environment and local communities.
He stated:
“Cruising is a dynamic sector with significant contribution to both the European and Greek economies. Its growth must be based on balance, strategic planning, and respect for the environment and local societies. Progress only has true meaning when it combines economic prosperity with knowledge, education, and sustainability. For us at the Eugenides Foundation, it is particularly important that Greeks — and especially young people — gain the skills that will allow them to seize the opportunities created by this growth.”
Industry Innovations as a Path to Sustainability
Reinforcing the sector’s commitment to sustainability, CLIA presented the findings of its 2025 Annual Environmental Technologies and Practices Report.
The report shows continuous and measurable progress by CLIA member cruise lines in advancing an ambitious environmental agenda — from the testing and pilot use of biofuels, and investments in flexible-fuel engines, to the increased use of lower-emission fuels and the expansion of energy-efficiency measures.
Cruise companies are pioneers in maritime innovation, implementing technologies such as advanced wastewater treatment systems, shore power connectivity, air lubrication systems, and the latest generation of dual-fuel engines — innovations that also benefit other segments of the maritime industry.
The sector is investing tens of billions of euros to build the fleet of the future, including more than 80 new vessels on order worldwide, equipped with these and other sustainable technologies.
“The Voyage”: Interactive Exhibition on Sustainable Cruise Tourism
CLIA’s “The Voyage” exhibition opened on October 22, 2025, at the Eugenides Foundation and will run from October 9, 2025, to January 9, 2026, with free admission for the public.
The exhibition follows CLIA’s campaign featuring a series of videos aimed at amplifying the voice of the cruise community in Greece and showcasing the sector’s contribution to growth and prosperity.
“The Voyage” takes visitors on an immersive journey through the world of cruising, featuring interactive displays and a strong focus on sustainability. Guests can explore innovations in cruise technology and learn about the environmental progress achieved by the industry.
Opening hours:
Monday–Tuesday: 09:00–16:30
Wednesday–Sunday: 09:00–21:00
