The Port of Heraklion has recorded significant growth in cruise traffic during the first nine months of 2024, solidifying its position as a leading port in the Mediterranean. Specifically, the port welcomed 422,996 passengers, marking a 53.83% increase compared to the same period in 2023, while the number of cruise ship calls increased by 16.20%, reaching 208 ships.
Moreover, the port has seen an impressive increase in homeporting operations. During the first nine months of 2024, 26 cruise ships selected the Port of Heraklion as their homeport, demonstrating its strategic importance as a key hub for cruise itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean. A total of 54,000 passengers embarked from the port, while 49,000 passengers disembarked, underscoring the port’s growing role as a central operational base for cruise lines.
Notably, for the third consecutive month, the increase in passenger traffic exceeded 80%, further highlighting the steady upward trajectory of the Port of Heraklion and the rising demand for the destination among international cruise travelers.
The Heraklion Port Authority remains committed to sustainable development, implementing measures that promote environmental awareness and reduce the carbon footprint of cruise ships. The adoption of sustainable practices ensures that cruise tourism growth aligns with environmental protection and benefits the local community.
Passengers visiting the Port of Heraklion come from various nationalities, with the most prominent in 2024 being:
- Germany: 26.43%
- United States: 18.19%
- United Kingdom: 13.79%
- Spain: 7.05%
- Italy: 6.72%
Mr. Minas Papadakis, CEO of the Heraklion Port Authority, stated:
“The success of the Port of Heraklion is based on balancing tourism growth with environmental protection. Through innovative initiatives and investments, we aim to create a port that promotes sustainability and offers high-quality experiences for our visitors.”
The Port of Heraklion remains committed to continuously improving its services and adopting green initiatives, contributing both to the local economy and to environmental protection.
