Friday, December 1, 2023
CLIA representatives, government officials, and key stakeholders gathered in Athens last week to discuss Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) proposed Action Plan for Greece over the next five years.
The agenda covered various topics, including the development of homeporting activities, opening new destinations, port infrastructure alignment with EU Fit For 55 legislation, potential cruise shipbuilding in Greece, extending the cruise season, and opportunities for seafarers.
Marie Caroline Laurent, CLIA’s Director General in Europe, and Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s National Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, along with cruise line members, held discussions with Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Mr. Christos Stylianides, Minister of Culture Ms. Lina Mendoni, and Deputy Minister of Tourism Ms. Elena Rapti.
Marie Caroline Laurent expressed satisfaction that CLIA’s proposed Action Plan aligns with the government’s priorities, aiming to maximize the benefits of cruising for Greece and promote sustainable growth.
Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s National Director, Eastern Mediterranean
We welcome this development and, with great respect for the communities that support the cruise sector, we cooperate on itineraries, port operations, and improved destination management practices, to provide sustainable, optimal experiences for communities and visitors.
Maria Deligianni highlighted the significant economic impact of cruising on Greece, generating over €1.1 billion euros annually and supporting numerous jobs. She emphasized collaboration on itineraries, port operations, and destination management practices for sustainable and optimal experiences.
Discussions with Minister Christos Stylianides emphasized the need for port infrastructure, investments for homeporting activities, opening new destinations, and complying with EU Fit For 55 legislation. The talks also covered sustainable marine fuels, revitalization of shipyards, and the potential for cruise shipbuilding in Greece.
Meetings with Minister Lina Mendoni underscored efforts to develop archaeological sites and improve conditions at existing sites. CLIA acknowledged the positive steps taken and highlighted the Acropolis of Athens as a model for sustainable tourism management practices.
Deputy Minister Elena Rapti embraced CLIA’s proposal to extend the cruise season and open new destinations, emphasizing the diverse options Greece can offer to cruise visitors. Discussions covered holistic destination management, encouraging partnerships among Eastern Mediterranean countries, and promoting career opportunities in the cruise sector for young people.
The delegation also met with various industry representatives, including the President of Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the President of the Hellenic Ship Suppliers and Exporters Association, the Director General of the Union of Greek Shipowners, the General Manager of the Greek Tourism Confederation, and the Director General of HELMEPA.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
