Greece may be among the ‘hottest’ yacht charter destinations in 2025, boast one of the longest coastlines in the world and 6,000 islands and islets to explore, more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and a strong tourism reputation, but it still hasn’t managed to tap into the full potential of yachting tourism.

According to a recent study conducted by research and policy institute diaNEOsis, developing 30% of Greece’s planned yachting infrastructure can generate some 2.9 billion euros in revenues for the nation and create 5,164 new berths.

This expansion would support thousands of jobs and businesses while solidifying Greece’s reputation as a leading yachting destination. However, its implementation requires significant investment in marina and port infrastructure, the digitization of services, and the efficient management of ports.

The study forecasts that the country could see annual revenues reach 602.7 million euros a year and–as of 2031, when the full scope of the infrastructure projects is expected to be complete–support 8,422 jobs.

However, challenges remain. Of the country’s 168 tourism ports, only 37 are currently operational. Moreover, of the 62 authorized marinas only 23 are functioning, while many require significant infrastructure upgrades.

Obstacles to the further expansion of the yachting sector in Greece include a lack of port network supervision, relevant legislation, and strategic and spatial planning for port sites. In addition, faster and simpler tender procedures are required.

Panhellenic Yachting Congress Themes

The 4th Panhellenic Yachting Congress, to be held on February 20-21 at the Asteria in Glyfada on the Athenian Riviera,  aims to explore both the opportunities and the challenges.

yachting tourism Athens Congress

In view of the two-day event, To Vima International Edition caught up with Kalliopi Efstathiou, CEO of Trinity Events, the organizer of the congress, to discuss the agenda.

The hybrid event, she explains, brings together sector experts, stakeholders and decision-makers who will explore ways Greece can further develop its yachting and marine tourism potential.

Greece accounts for approximately 17% of the global charter fleet, making it one of the top three yachting destinations worldwide, alongside Croatia and the Caribbean.

“Given the rapid changes and developments in the yachting sector and its interconnected industries, the year’s conference aims to highlight the steps needed to achieve greater progress while boosting economic activity with the help of new methods and innovations,” Efstathiou tells To Vima International Edition.

Topics to be covered include sustainability & green technologies, education and professional development in yachting, shipbuilding & boat design, AI and smart systems, financing tools for entrepreneurship, education and professional development, marketing & revenue analytics, new trends, sailing clubs, and safety.

Efstathiou notes that the most important goal of the congress is to present business opportunities and strengthen collaborations between local and international companies.

“Any actions taken to unify the sector contribute to the evolution and development of yachting and marine tourism, which is a dominant force in the Greek economy.”

Room for Growth

Efstathiou, who comes from a Greek shipping family, admits that there is still significant room for growth. In addition to the main events at the congress, she believes the Q&A sessions and panel discussions are a highlight.

“Presentations and discussions will focus on overcoming regulatory and infrastructure challenges while promoting Greece’s unique potential as a yachting destination.” At the same time, she adds, the conference offers opportunities to promote Greece internationally, boost investments, and support the development of a sustainable activity in the sphere of marine tourism.

Lastly, networking is crucial to further promoting the country’s yachting/marine tourism sector. Market professionals, charterers, agents, hoteliers, marina managers and government agencies and investors from all over the world share know-how and best practices which go a long way.

Sustainability in Focus

Topping the congress agenda this year is the importance of eco-friendly solutions. Topics, Efstathiou says, will include the development of ecological vessels, sustainable materials, and smart systems designed to reduce environmental impact.

Yachting in Greece: The Numbers

yachting tourism Athens Congress

  • Greece is home to more than 50 organized marinas offering nearly 15,000 berths alongside countless smaller ports and anchorages. The largest marina is in Alimos, near Athens, with over 1,000 berths.
  • The country has the 11th longest coastline in the world at 16,000km, making it ideal for yachting experiences.
  • Marine tourism contributes an estimated 1.8% to Greece’s GDP.
  • The country’s yacht charter market has grown by approximately 12% annually over the past decade, marking a 20% surge post-Covid driven by demand from European and international travelers (80%), most of whom come back year after year.
  • There are 170,000 recreational sea craft in Greece (2019), 6,109 of which are for professional use.
  • In 2019, 83 companies in Greece were active in yacht and pleasure boat manufacturing services.
  • In 2018, yachting tourism generated 4 million euros in revenues.
  • A 2019 Greek Marinas Association study found that yachting activity can generate approximately 016 million euros a year and support some 43,626 jobs.
  • The average yachting season in Greece lasts about 180 days, from April to October.
  • Popular yachting destinations include the Cyclades islands (mainly Mykonos and Santorini), the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Lefkada), and the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos). Together, they account for the majority (70%) of charter bookings.
  • Of the 1 million tourists Greece welcomed in 2022, more than 15% engaged in marine tourism activities, including yachting. This figure continues to grow each year.
  • There has been a surge in demand for super yachts over the last five years, and Greece has ranked among the top five countries with the largest superyacht fleets in the world since 2018.

‘To Vima International Edition’ and tovima.com are media sponsors for the 4th Panhellenic Yachting Congress.

*with data from diaNeosis, Greek Marinas Association, 2024 Sea Tourism Festival