The iconic island of Santorini is steadily returning to normalcy as it officially kicked off its 2025 cruise season on Sunday, welcoming its first cruise ship carrying 1,170 passengers—mostly American tourists.
Local businesses are gearing up to host visitors for the upcoming Easter holidays, signaling a hopeful revival for the island’s tourism industry.
The arrival marks a significant milestone after a challenging period of seismic activity that disrupted life not only on Santorini but also on nearby Amorgos and Anafi. With all restrictive measures now lifted, hoteliers and tourism operators have begun preparations for the season, while scientists remain on the island to monitor the waning seismic sequences.
According to the president of the Cruise Association, bookings for 2025 indicate a promising uptick of at least 10% in cruise traffic and passenger numbers. Last year’s season closed with 7.9 million passengers across Greece’s cruise destinations, 1.3 million of whom visited Santorini—a clear sign of the island’s enduring appeal. “Tourists are choosing cruises precisely because Santorini is part of the itinerary,” the president noted.
As repair work on tourist accommodations progresses and seismic activity subsides, Santorini is poised to reclaim its status as a must-visit destination. For the island’s residents and businesses, the sight of the first cruise ship docking is more than just a return to routine—it’s a beacon of recovery and optimism for the year ahead.
(Source: Reuters)