On the occasion of World Tourism Day 27/9/2025, held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, Heraklion Port Authority (HPA S.A.) organized a series of events highlighting the pivotal role of the port in the tourism development of Crete and Greece.
This year’s celebration provided an opportunity to recognize the crucial role of cruise tourism as a gateway for thousands of visitors from all over the world, contributing to sustainable growth, job creation, and the strengthening of the local economy.
The celebration gained special significance as it coincided with the simultaneous presence of two emblematic cruise ships: Mein Schiff 5 of TUI Cruises, which was at the port for her weekly turnaround, and Le Dumont d’Urville of the French company Ponant.
As part of the celebration:
- Selected local products were offered to passengers, showcasing the authenticity of Cretan gastronomy.
- Symbolic gifts were presented, along with the opportunity to join excursions to the Cretan hinterland, enabling visitors to experience the island’s cultural heritage, monuments, and natural beauty.
The presence of Le Dumont d’Urville added international prestige to the celebration, as the vessel hosted the “Croisière de la rédaction du Figaro” – an initiative of the leading French newspaper Le Figaro. As part of this unique cruise, renowned French journalists deliver onboard lectures, discussions, and interventions on contemporary issues, blending culture with tourism. Their presence in Heraklion offered a valuable opportunity for international visibility of Crete, through the authority and influence of one of Europe’s most respected media outlets.
The Port of Heraklion, with its modern infrastructure, high-level services, and strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, continues to record strong momentum in the cruise sector, significantly contributing to the local economy and promoting sustainable tourism development.
The CEO of HPA, Mr. Minas Papadakis, stated:
“World Tourism Day reminds us that tourism is a bridge between cultures, a driver of development, and a force for extroversion. The Heraklion Port Authority is committed to the continuous upgrade of its cruise services and to strengthening strategic partnerships with international stakeholders, ensuring that Heraklion remains a point of reference on the Mediterranean cruise map.”
With vision, consistency, and an international outlook, the Heraklion Port Authority will continue to promote Crete as an attractive, sustainable, and globally recognized tourism destination, fully aligned with the spirit of this year’s theme: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.
