Heraklion, Crete, Expects Increase Of Cruise Passengers This Year

Initial signs for cruise tourism in Heraklion, Crete, are very positive as the port authority recently announced that it expects cruise passenger arrivals to increase by 10 percent this year.

In 2013, 272,149 cruise passengers visited the port and city of Heraklion via 177 cruise ships. Gross revenue from cruise activities exceeded 600,000 euros.

Compared with 2012, last year Heraklion saw an increase in cruise arrivals by 25.18 percent and a revenue increase of some 150,000 euros.

It is noted that last year, the 20.20 percent of visitors (55,435 passengers) were homeport cruise passengers, a factor that contributed greatly to the city’s local economy.

Heraklion Port looking west.

Cruise Shipping Miami Expo

The Heraklion Port Authority participated in the Cruise Shipping Miami exhibition (10-13 March), which is considered the total epicenter of the cruise industry, bringing together every facet of the business including cruise lines, suppliers, travel agents and partners.

During the exhibition, the port authority’s president, Ioannis Bras, held meetings with company executives of leading cruise companies such as Costa Crociere, Aida Cruises, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL).

Throughout the days of the exhibition, Mr. Bras presented the port’s plans for the construction of a new tend cruise terminal for homeport passengers that will be built at pier IV. The new terminal is expected to double the service capabilities of the port.

He also presented plans for the improvement of offered services for cruise passengers traveling via the Heraklion International Airport.

Having upgraded port services for cruise companies and visitors to the city over the past few years, Mr. Bras aims to expand the port’s homeport possibilities through new cruise routes from the destination. Services at Heraklion Port include a series of technological innovations established to enhance the cruise experience of visitors.