Published on
September 23, 2025
Greece’s Ministry of Tourism will consider further development of the budding fields of marine tourism and yachting as a key focus area of Greece’s sustained tourism development… Its aim is to further position Greece as a go-to place for sustainable and high-end sea tourism. Greece is likely to benefit from the growing interest in ocean tourism and aims to implement investment efforts to upgrade infrastructure, services, and tourism competitiveness, as marine tourism is among the fastest growing fields in the world.
In a press release ahead of the Olympic Yacht Show 2025, Greece’s Minister for Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni reiterated the importance of this position. Organized by Ondeck Events, the Show is aimed at demonstrating the country’s enhanced capabilities in the field of marine tourism while promoting Greece as a premier tourist and yachting sustainable ocean tourism destination.
Greece’s Commitment to Sustainable Growth in Marine Tourism
Minister Kefalogianni reflected on Greece’s continued success in the tourism sector, noting that the country is achieving record-breaking results, reinforcing its status as a globally recognized destination. However, she pointed out that Greece’s focus is not solely on growth, but rather on achieving sustainable and quality-driven development that respects local communities and the environment.
“Our goal is sustainable and quality-driven growth, boosting competitiveness, resilience, and respect for local communities and the natural environment,” Kefalogianni said. She also emphasized that marine tourism, with yachting at its core, represents a significant area of opportunity. By enhancing the experience for visitors, Greece is reducing seasonality and creating new opportunities for local development, further solidifying its position in the global tourism market.
Marine tourism, and particularly yachting, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments of Greece’s tourism industry. The sector’s rapid expansion is not only benefiting Greece’s economy but also enriching the country’s appeal as a year-round destination. Through these developments, the Greek government is ensuring that marine tourism is both a catalyst for economic growth and a sustainable endeavor that protects Greece’s treasured coastal and marine environments.
Targeted Actions to Strengthen Marine Tourism Infrastructure
The Greek Tourism Ministry has already taken significant steps to support marine tourism by implementing a series of initiatives aimed at upgrading infrastructure, enhancing services, and improving the overall visitor experience. These measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure that Greece remains competitive while focusing on sustainable tourism development.
Minister Kefalogianni noted that Greece is working on several projects funded through the country’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). These include upgrades and expansions to Greece’s marina network, essential improvements to diving tourism infrastructure, and initiatives to improve beach accessibility for all visitors. These infrastructure improvements are expected to bolster Greece’s appeal to international visitors, particularly those looking for high-quality yachting, diving, and beach tourism experiences.
Moreover, Greece is also modernizing the institutional framework for the planning and operation of tourist ports, ensuring that they meet the evolving demands of international visitors. In parallel, new tools are being developed for data collection and analysis, enabling the government to monitor and assess the impact of marine tourism and improve future planning.
Creation of the Eastern Mediterranean Coastal and Marine Tourism Observatory
One of the most exciting initiatives in the government’s strategy is the establishment of the Eastern Mediterranean Coastal and Marine Tourism Observatory, developed in partnership with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This landmark initiative aims to track and measure sustainable development in marine tourism, offering data-driven insights to help shape long-term strategies for the sector’s growth.
The Observatory will focus on monitoring the impact of tourism on coastal and marine areas, providing expertise and actionable recommendations for improving sustainability and minimizing environmental impact. This initiative underscores Greece’s commitment to maintaining its status as a sustainable tourism leader and ensuring that growth in marine tourism aligns with environmental and community-based goals.
By creating the Observatory, Greece is setting a global example for how marine tourism can be managed sustainably, contributing to the health of the environment while still supporting economic growth and local communities.
Olympic Yacht Show 2025: A Key Event for Greece’s Marine Tourism Sector
The Olympic Yacht Show 2025, scheduled to take place from October 9-12 at Olympic Marine in Lavrio, will serve as a flagship event for Greece’s burgeoning marine tourism industry. With over 100 yachts on display, 400 premium brands, and numerous world and European premieres, the show is set to attract significant international attention and highlight Greece as a top-tier destination for high-end marine tourism.
The show provides a valuable platform for showcasing the diversity and dynamism of Greece’s yachting industry. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the latest yachts, engage with key players in the marine tourism sector, and explore Greece’s potential as a luxury yachting destination. The event not only promotes Greece’s marine tourism offerings but also strengthens the country’s profile as a competitive player in the global yachting market.
Moreover, the Olympic Yacht Show will highlight Greece’s commitment to the sustainable development of its marine tourism sector, drawing attention to eco-friendly practices and innovations in yacht design and operations. As the sector grows, Greece aims to ensure that its tourism remains resilient, sustainable, and beneficial to both visitors and local communities.
The Impact on Travel and Tourists
The strategic focus on marine tourism will have a profound impact on both the Greek economy and international tourism. For tourists, Greece’s expanding network of marinas, upgraded ports, and sustainable tourism initiatives means enhanced access to the country’s world-class yachting and maritime attractions. Whether visitors are interested in exploring the Greek islands, embarking on a luxury cruise, or enjoying the country’s pristine beaches, the new developments ensure that Greece will continue to offer unforgettable travel experiences for marine tourists.
For local communities, the growth of the marine tourism sector will provide opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, particularly in areas near coastal towns and islands. This growth can also stimulate the local economy, benefiting restaurants, tour operators, hotels, and other businesses that cater to marine tourists.
In addition to the tangible economic benefits, the expansion of marine tourism is set to enhance Greece’s international reputation as a sustainable and luxurious travel destination. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices and sustainability, Greece is positioning itself as a leader in responsible tourism, attracting travelers who are not only looking for a memorable vacation but also seeking to minimize their environmental impact.
Greece’s Vision for the Future of Marine Tourism
Greece’s emphasis on marine tourism strategically positions the country for continued success in the market over the coming decades. Greece is working on the country’s targeting infrastructure projects bundled with sustainable strategic partnerships to position Greece as a marine tourism leader. With a strong focus on sustainable and high quality travel experiences, Greece is one of the top countries to visit for its endless coastal beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history, ideally for marine tourism. With Greece’s increasing focus on marine tourism, we can expect Greece to be one of the exemplars for the world to see how both economic progress along with…
Greece’s focus on economic progress with marine tourism is a strong position to set as the world’s tourism’s center. Greece will be able to make a responsibly balanced world-class experience with the environmental values for the world to see.
