POSIDONIA SEA TOURISM FORUM 2025 NEWSETTER | ISSUE 1
THE CRUISE INDUSTRY CONVENES IN CRETE
CRUISE LINES MEET WITH EAST MED STAKEHOLDERS AT POSIDONIA SEA TOURISM FORUM
The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF 2025) is set to bring together an elite assembly of global cruise industry leaders in Heraklion, Crete, on 6-7 May. With the strong support of the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority, this premier event will convene executives from the world’s major cruise lines, industry associations, destinations and maritime tourism authorities from Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean to engage in high-level discussions on the evolving landscape of cruise tourism. The forum will address a broad spectrum of industry challenges and opportunities, shaping the future of sea tourism in the region.
Over the course of two days at the state-of-the-art Mikis Theodorakis Convention Centre, key decision-makers will explore strategies for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s most sought-after destinations.
On Day One, discussions will focus on striking a balance between growing passenger demand and responsible tourism management, as well as fostering collaboration to introduce cruise travellers to emerging ports with marquee potential. With sustainable sea tourism at the forefront, the forum aims to shape a resilient and forward-thinking cruise landscape for the region.
Elisabetta de Nardo, Senior VP, Global Port Relations & Commercial Services, MSC Cruises, highlighted the forum’s significance:
“The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a fantastic opportunity to exchange the knowledge that can help inform and shape our continued growth path. It is in the interests of all cruise lines, ports, destinations, and other tourism industry stakeholders to ensure we work together to address the issues facing us in the Mediterranean, such as ensuring frameworks are in place for the introduction of OPS, and the work underway to mitigate overcrowding, an issue of particular focus in the host nation, Greece. As Europe’s leading cruise line, MSC Cruises is committed to a co-operative approach towards responsible tourism, ensuring we meet the needs of our guests while protecting the destinations we visit and the marine environment on which we rely.”
One of the must-attend panel discussions on the opening day of PSTF 2025 is the “Small Ships” Panel, introducing a dynamic and rapidly growing market segment to the region. With increasing interest from major hotel conglomerates in ultra-luxury small cruise ships, this panel will explore how these vessels – perfectly suited for the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean – are reshaping the cruising experience.
Spyros Almpertis, VP, Port and Destination Operations at Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, commented:
“We believe that the East Med will play a crucial role in our future plans, as we aim to provide our guests with unique opportunities to explore lesser-known ports while enjoying the highest standards of luxury. The PSTF 2025 is an invaluable forum for connecting with industry leaders and stakeholders. It provides opportunities for dialogue around sustainability, innovation and the future of the maritime industry – values that resonate deeply with the Ritz-Carlton brand. We are excited to introduce our new yacht collection to this dynamic region and are committed to delivering exceptional service while promoting responsible tourism practices that support local communities and preserve the delicate marine environment.”
Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal, a PSTF supporter since its launch, highlighted the importance of the East Med and shared his vision:
“The Central and Eastern Mediterranean remains a core region for Celestyal, with our beloved Iconic Greek Islands, Idyllic Greece, and Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia itineraries. Coupled with our fleetwide year-round operations now in place, we are excited to present our upgraded brand, enhanced services, and expanded itineraries. Our investment in both our fleet and guest experience underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional, destination-rich cruises. With our recent expansion into the Arabian Gulf, offering new year-round itineraries, we are thrilled to bring Celestyal’s signature experience to even more travellers. The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a great opportunity to connect with industry partners, explore new collaborations, and showcase our vision for the future. I am looking forward to meeting industry peers, partners, and local authorities to discuss the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Sponsors
CRUISING THROUGH TIME: ODAP BRINGS GREECE’S CULTURAL LEGACY TO PSTF 2025
The enduring love affair between cruise passengers and Greece’s cultural, archaeological, and historical sites is set to grow even stronger thanks to modernization efforts by ODAP (Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development). Dedicated to enhancing visitor experiences, ODAP will make its debut as an exhibitor at the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, promoting Greek cultural heritage through sustainable initiatives. The organization aims to engage with cruise and sea tourism leaders, highlight lesserknown archaeological sites, and position itself as a key enabler of cultural tourism. Among its initiatives are e-tickets for over 100 locations, expanded heritage outlets, media and event showcases, scholarly publications, and heritage-inspired souvenirs.
Nikoletta Divari-Valakou, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, ODAP, stated:
“Our participation at PSTF 2025 reflects ODAP’s mission to protect, promote and share Greece’s unparalleled cultural heritage with the world. For millennia, the Greek people have cultivated a profound relationship with the sea, shaping history, culture, and civilization. From ancient maritime trade routes to myths and artistic achievements inspired by the Aegean and Mediterranean, the sea has been a cornerstone of Greek identity and storytelling. Through this rich legacy, ODAP aims to build bridges between Greece’s cultural treasures and the global cruise industry. By offering seamless access to over 250 archaeological sites and museums, electronic ticketing, and curated cultural experiences, we aim to elevate the cruise traveller’s journey while reinforcing the timeless bond between Greece and the sea. Our presence at this year’s event in Crete underscores our commitment to sustainable tourism, fostering global partnerships, and inspiring new audiences to engage with the beauty and diversity of our cultural heritage.”
A CRETAN AFFAIR: FROM HERAKLION TO CHANIA & AG. NIKOLAOS, STEPPING ONTO THE GLOBAL STAGE
The Gelasakis Group, a leading player in travel, maritime, and hospitality services, will once again participate at the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to the sector. With headquarters in Piraeus and a significant operational presence in Crete’s Chania Souda port, the company has reaped substantial benefits from past PSTF events.
Antonis Gelasakis, Owner & CEO at Gelasakis Group of Companies, Travel & Hospitality Divisions, said:
“Posidonia has helped us network with industry leaders, discover new business opportunities, and stay ahead of emerging trends. In 2025, we aim to expand our network further, explore new opportunities, and engage in discussions about sustainability and technological advancements.”
At PSTF 2025, the company will showcase its latest innovations, highlight its operational capabilities, and discuss how its services continue to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Added Gelasakis,
“This forum is an unparalleled opportunity to connect, share insights, and collectively drive the industry forward. We look forward to strengthening relationships, staying ahead of trends, and demonstrating our dedication to maritime tourism. The 2025 PSTF will be a key platform for collaboration, growth and innovation.”
MEDCRUISE CHARTS COURSE FOR GROWTH AT PSTF 2025
MedCruise is set to make its seventh appearance at the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, reinforcing the event’s significance for key stakeholders in the international cruise industry.
Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise said,
“Posidonia is the ideal platform for connecting with industry leaders, showcasing innovations, and exploring collaborative solutions to challenges in the cruise sector.”
Founded in Rome in 1996 through a collaborative agreement between 16 ports across seven countries, MedCruise now spans 22 countries across three continents -Africa, Asia, and Europerepresenting more than 160 ports, including Heraklion, the host city of PSTF 2025.
Anne-Marie Spinosi, Senior Vice President of the Association, emphasized the value of the event:
“Our participation in previous forums has strengthened relationships with key industry players, highlighted the unique value of MedCruise members, and provided insights into evolving trends. At PSTF 2025, we aim to elevate our visibility, forge new strategic partnerships, and promote the diverse offerings of MedCruise ports.”
SMART MARINAS AND TECH-DRIVEN YACHTING SOLUTIONS AT PSTF 2025
Yachting is a crucial pillar of Greece’s sea tourism economy, supporting not just its harbours but a vast ecosystem of maritime professionals. To remain competitive, Greek marinas must integrate cutting-edge infrastructure to accommodate recreational boats and luxury yachts from across the globe. PSTF 2025 will showcase the latest in marina technology, including fully automated service pillars, vending machines, fire hose cabinets, and advanced control software solutions. Chalkida-based SMARTMARINAS L.C. is one of the companies that, during its PSTF debut, will be introducing its innovative marina infrastructure solutions.
Antonis Kalamakidis, CEO of SMARTMARINAS said,
“The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum offers an ideal platform to present our cutting-edge products, which are designed to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability and smart port management.”
The company’s automated pillars ensure seamless water and electricity supply to vessels while enabling real-time consumption monitoring through a user-friendly prepaid card system and smartphone app. By optimizing resource usage and generating significant revenue for port authorities, this technology plays a crucial role in supporting the sustainability of island communities and advancing the future of smart ports.
