The Piraeus Port Authority (OLP S.A.) has officially marked the opening of Greece’s 2026 cruise season with the arrival of the first vessels at the country’s largest port, ushering in a year that begins with strong momentum and optimistic prospects.
The new season underscores the steady upward trajectory of cruise activity in Piraeus and its increasingly prominent role in the Eastern Mediterranean. At Passenger Terminal A “Miaoulis,” representatives of OLP S.A. welcomed Viking Vesta, the newest addition to the Viking Cruises fleet. The ship is scheduled to call at Piraeus 12 more times during 2026, further strengthening the long-standing partnership between the cruise line and the port authority.
The presence of Viking Vesta at the start of the season highlights the importance international cruise operators place on Piraeus, both as a port of call and as a strategic hub for their regional operations.
MSC Cruises’ Continued Commitment
At the same time, OLP S.A. executives visited the MSC Lirica, which is set to berth in Piraeus on 13 occasions throughout 2026, including partial passenger disembarkation. This activity reflects the port’s enduring collaboration with leading global cruise companies and its firm position on major cruise itineraries.
A Landmark Year in 2025
The year 2025 proved to be a milestone for cruise tourism in Piraeus. According to OLP S.A. data, the port welcomed 863 cruise ships, while passenger numbers reached approximately 1.85 million. These results further cement Piraeus’ status as a premier cruise destination in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Strategy Focused on Sustainable Growth
On the occasion of the 2026 season launch, OLP S.A. CEO Su Xudong pointed to the sector’s consistently growing momentum. He emphasized that the port’s strategic geographic location, combined with ongoing investments and systematic upgrades to infrastructure and services, plays a decisive role in supporting sustainable cruise development.
