Hellenic Seaplanes is bringing seaplanes to Greek ports for the first time, marking a new era in maritime travel and tourism. The first approach of a seaplane to the port of Kalamata was a significant moment. The Cessna Caravan C208 seaplane, with a capacity of up to 12 passengers, was launched a few days ago, in the presence of the Mayor of Kalamata, Thanasis Vassilopoulos, the President of the Municipal Port Fund, Lydia Exintaveloni, the Port Authority, Captain Dimitris Nezis, Port Authority officials and tourism organizations. The President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Nikolas Charalambous, was also present.
The Mayor described the day as “special for Kalamata”, noting that the arrival of the first seaplane paves the way for fast and safe travel. The Port Authority described it as “a breath of fresh air for the city”, while the president of the Municipal Port Fund wished that regular routes would start soon.
The company has already carried out test flights to other ports, such as Eratini, where the maiden flight was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Justice and Member of Parliament for Fokida, Ioannis Bougas, as well as Corfu, with Ms. Angela Gerekou making a strong presence. These flights took place in September and were part of the infrastructure and route evaluation.
“With our first flights to Kalamata and Eratini, we are demonstrating in practice the readiness of our network to connect cities, ports and tourist destinations throughout the country. The cycle of test flights continues at an unabated pace, already listing flights to over ten destinations. Their goal is for our experienced pilots to get to know the ports we will be operating and their specificities, as well as for the public and local authorities to get closer to the aircraft and its capabilities. Local communities are embracing this effort, which is developing a unique travel experience for residents and visitors”, notes the President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Nikolas Charalambous.
The next step, according to the company’s plan, includes charter flights and the start of regular routes from March 2026, bringing the country one step closer to a new chapter for Greek tourism and maritime travel.
