V. Kikilias: Agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line for 200,000 cruise passengers in 2022

Following a teleconference conference held today, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias agreed with Norwegian Cruise Line President and CEO Harry Sommer and Senior Vice President Steve Moeller that Norwegian Cruise Line should bring more than 200,000 passengers to Greece from 2 March 2022 to November 22, 2022. This confirms the strategy of the Minister of Tourism to extend the tourist season, according to a statement from the ministry.

Specifically, the company plans to bring more than 200,000 cruise passengers in 2022 with 500 calls (approaches) to Greek ports, with Piraeus for the first time after 5 years being a homeport for 50 routes.

Mr. Kikilias expressed his satisfaction for the compatibility of the company’s plans, with the strategic goal of extending the tourist season, given that the first route of the company is scheduled for March 2 and the last for November 22.

In addition, the Minister of Tourism put forward proposals for the further enrichment of the travel experience of cruise passengers, through their two-day stay in Athens, something that will enhance the tourist product of the capital.

At the same time, he informed the participants in the teleconference about the study that has been completed and will be presented in the near future for Santorini and Mykonos, which contains, among other things, a grid of actions for the proper management of the cruise, both in the specific destinations and at national level. .

Mr. Sommer thanked Mr. Kikilias for his contribution to the vaccination of cruise ship crews and the resumption of cruising in Greece, first of all the Mediterranean countries.