For the first time in its history, Port Heraklion, Crete Island has surpassed half a million cruise passengers within a single season, marking a significant achievement in the Greek port's development. The milestone was reached on November 3rd, 2024, with the arrival of TUI's ship Mein Schiff 6, a day that saw 3 cruise vessels docked at Heraklion.
Minas Papadakis, CEO of the Heraklion Port Authority, noted that reaching this milestone was a testament to the coordinated efforts and strategic priorities set by the port. Papadakis highlighted the accomplishment as not only a boost to Heraklion’s economic landscape but also as a pivotal step in solidifying the port’s position as a premier cruise destination in the Eastern Mediterranean.
This achievement follows a 16% rise in cruise calls to Heraklion during the first nine months of 2024. Between January and September, the port welcomed 26 homeporting vessels, which the Port Authority described as a reflection of Heraklion’s growing importance as a strategic hub for Eastern Mediterranean cruise itineraries. An additional 14 cruise calls are anticipated before year-end, further strengthening the port’s role in regional tourism.