Cruise Activity in Greece Expected to Take Off After August 20

Greek Maritime Minister Yiannis Plakiotakis on Thursday said he sees cruise activity in Greece taking off after August 20. The minister’s statement follows some four months of suspended cruise operations in Greece due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis.

Speaking to state broadcaster ET1, the minister said that the government has drawn up national guidance for cruise travel, which are based on health protocols for the passengers and crews of cruise ships.

“Greece is ready, in terms of health protocols, to receive cruise ships,” the minister said, adding that certain foreign companies have already expressed an interested to start cruise routes in Greece.

Moreover, Plakiotakis stressed that cruise travel is an international activity worldwide and is facing serious problems due to the coronavirus. He underlined that the cruise industry is one that always depends on the course of the tourism market.

According to reports, Greece’s health committee of experts is expected to meet today to determine the health protocols for the country’s ports, so that cruise ships with passengers can approach them.

It is reminded that Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis recently announced that six ports in Greece will be open to welcome cruise ships as of August 1.