≡-Greece Leads the Way in Cruise Tourism Growth with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys’ Focus on Sustainability, Local Collaboration, and Expanding Its Global Market Reach – Viral of Today

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Home » Greece » Greece Travel News » Greece Leads the Way in Cruise Tourism Growth with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys’ Focus on Sustainability, Local Collaboration, and Expanding Its Global Market Reach Tuesday, July 8, 2025MSC Cruises, along with its luxury brand Explora Journeys, has taken a significant step in strengthening its ties with Greece’s booming cruise sector by organizing a series of impactful events in Thessaloniki, Kavala, and Syros. With a substantial presence across 20 Greek ports and over 470 annual arrivals, these events highlight the cruise companies’ continued investment in Greece, driving both the tourism industry and local economies forward.Thessaloniki: Positioning for a Future Home PortThe first event, held in Thessaloniki on June 25, focused on the potential for the city to become a home port for Eastern Mediterranean cruises. The luxury vessel Explora I provided a grand backdrop for MSC Cruises executives, local officials, and tourism stakeholders to explore how Thessaloniki could serve as a major cruise hub.MSC Cruises showcased its expanding presence in the Greek market, operating eight ships this year alone, underscoring the company’s growing commitment to the region. The key discussion centered on Thessaloniki’s considerable potential as a home port, although it was acknowledged that a coordinated national strategy is required to ensure the city’s development as a key departure point.While the need for modern port infrastructure and enhanced tourism facilities was underscored, there was also a call for cooperation between public and private sectors to ensure Thessaloniki’s sustainable growth as a cruise destination. The conversation also touched upon the introduction of a tourist tax on cruise arrivals, with participants highlighting the importance of transparency and investments in infrastructure to ensure the effectiveness of such a measure.Kavala: Entering the Luxury Cruise MarketOn June 26, Kavala held its inaugural event, signaling the city’s entry into the luxury cruise market. The arrival of Explora I signaled the beginning of a new chapter for Kavala as it joins the luxury cruising circuit. This event highlighted the city’s emerging reputation as an attractive destination for high-end travelers.Key figures emphasized the importance of leveraging luxury cruising as a tool for regional tourism development. Expanding Kavala’s tourism offerings, particularly within the luxury sector, was highlighted as an essential strategy for boosting the city’s global visibility.The discussion also focused on sustainable development within the cruise sector, emphasizing the need for responsible growth that benefits both the local community and the tourism industry. Developing the port and enhancing the infrastructure with an eye toward sustainability were seen as crucial steps in ensuring the long-term success of Kavala’s role as a cruise destination.Syros: Promoting Authentic Greek Experiences for PassengersThe third event, held in Syros on July 1, spotlighted the island’s position as a key destination within the Cyclades for cruise tourism. Hosted aboard MSC Lirica, the event drew attention to the island’s cultural and historical appeal, offering guests an authentic Greek experience beyond traditional tourist attractions.MSC Cruises shared its new approach to offering passengers truly immersive and authentic travel experiences. By partnering with local schools, cultural organizations, and community groups, MSC aims to provide guests with deeper, more meaningful connections to the places they visit. This approach underscores MSC’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism.A performance by the Lyceum of Greek Women showcased Syros’ rich cultural heritage, allowing passengers to experience firsthand the island’s unique traditions. This cultural exchange was an integral part of MSC’s vision to bring local communities into the cruising experience, fostering genuine connections between travelers and their destinations.MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys’ Dedication to Sustainability and Growth in GreeceMSC Cruises and Explora Journeys are steadfast in their commitment to sustainable cruising and long-term investment in Greece. Both brands have outlined strategies focused on expanding their Greek itineraries, enhancing the guest experience, and minimizing environmental impacts.The cruise lines’ vision is not solely about increasing the number of ships or port calls; it also focuses on deepening passenger engagement through authentic, local experiences that promote cultural heritage while benefiting the local economy. By partnering with local communities, MSC and Explora Journeys are creating a framework for tourism that supports Greece’s unique cultural assets while promoting responsible tourism practices.With these initiatives, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys aim to further solidify Greece’s standing on the global cruising map. As these brands continue to expand their presence in the region, they play an instrumental role in shaping Greece’s future as a sustainable, world-class cruise destination. The investments being made now will help secure Greece’s position as a leading destination in the global tourism market for the foreseeable future.

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