Santorini tries to save the 2025 tourist season: Strategic reorganisation plan amid visitor decline and a new oceanographic expedition explores Santorini’s volcanic craters.
Current Situation of Santorini Tourism
Greek Government Actions on Cruise Operations
The Greek administration is currently finalising crucial decisions about Santorini’s cruise industry following recent seismic events.
Officials are working to establish new regulations for vessel arrivals, safety protocols, and tax structures before late March 2025, when the cruise season traditionally begins.
The decisions are particularly time-sensitive as tourism in Santorini is down 20% for the upcoming summer.
A significant change involves the main Fira port’s cable car system, which authorities have determined must remain non-operational for at least the next quarter whilst seismic monitoring continues.
Some reports suggest this closure might extend until year-end, requiring substantial adjustments to visitor management strategies.
Recommendations from Industry Experts
Local tourism professionals have presented several practical suggestions to the government following high-level consultations. Their primary recommendations include:
- Maintaining the original 22nd March start date for the cruise season
- Redirecting ships from Fira port to alternative docking locations
- Establishing a temporary pier at Monolithos for alternative access
- Implementing tender transport systems to bring passengers ashore
These proposals would require additional infrastructure works, particularly dredging operations to ensure safe navigation at the suggested alternative sites.
The tourism stakeholders emphasise that whilst these modifications represent significant operational changes, they are necessary compromises to salvage the 2025 season.
Cruise Schedule Remains Largely Intact
According to the Thira Municipal Port Fund, the cruise calendar has remained remarkably stable despite recent challenges. Apart from two February cancellations, all other vessels intend to maintain their scheduled stops beginning 22nd March.
The berth allocation system continues to function, maintaining the daily visitor limitation of 8,000 people, with occasional flexibility allowing up to 9,000 passengers.
Tourism authorities are emphasising that restarting the cruise season is vital for the island’s economic recovery.
As local business owners note, more than 2,000 shops depend directly on cruise tourism, making these visitors essential to the island’s commercial ecosystem.
Industry experts anticipate that cruise companies will make their final operational decisions by late March or early April.
Accommodation Sector Experiencing Significant Decline
The hotel industry on Santorini is reporting concerning booking statistics for the upcoming season. Representatives at the ITB Berlin trade fair indicate a substantial reduction exceeding 20% compared to the same booking period last year.
The most troubling declines are concentrated in April and May, which traditionally mark the beginning of the high season.
The Santorini Hoteliers’ Association, in collaboration with the Greek National Tourism Organisation, is actively working to reverse this trend through targeted promotional campaigns at industry events.
Despite current challenges, industry leaders maintain cautious optimism, noting that if conditions remain stable, the tourism gap may begin closing from April onwards.
Tax Policy Considerations
The temporary suspension of the cruise tax implemented during the seismic activity period faces uncertainty.
Although officially still suspended, Greek officials are considering reinstating the tourism tax to fund necessary infrastructure projects.
Authorities believe the cruise sector should contribute to these costs as part of a sustainable tourism model.
This policy discussion occurs against a broader backdrop of Greece’s increased tourism taxation that took effect on 1st January 2025, requiring visitors to budget for higher costs across various tourism services.
New Oceanographic Expedition Explores Santorini’s Volcanic Caldera
A significant oceanographic expedition has commenced around Santorini’s volcanic complex, aiming to investigate the critical interactions between hydrothermal systems in the caldera and the underwater Kolumbo volcano.
The mission, named HYDROMOX (Hydrothermal Modulation of Caldera Explosivity), is currently underway using the sophisticated oceanographic vessel “RRS Discovery” from the National Oceanography Centre.
The expedition, funded by British authorities, represents a crucial advancement in understanding the natural mechanisms that shape the submarine volcanic environment.
Research Team and Objectives
The research team includes experts from the SANTORY Submarine Observatory of Santorini from the University of Athens. Professor Evi Nomikou, specialising in Geological Oceanography, and PhD candidate Anna Katsigera, who studies Marine Geology and Volcanic Risk Assessment, form the Greek contingent of this international effort.
It’s worth noting that this expedition had been scheduled well before the recent seismic activity in the region, demonstrating the ongoing scientific recognition of the need to monitor active hydrothermal fields around Santorini.
Methodology and Equipment
The HYDROMOX team, led by researcher Isobel Yeo from the National Oceanography Centre, employs a comprehensive approach combining:
- Geophysical methods
- Geochemical analysis
- Robotic exploration devices
- Seafloor instruments
This integrated methodology allows researchers to accurately map the pathways through which hydrothermal fluids travel to the surface while simultaneously controlling fundamental magmatic processes.
The team is deploying state-of-the-art seafloor instruments that will collect continuous data from the volcano zone. These instruments are crucial for monitoring any changes in the active hydrothermal fields of Kolumbo and the Santorini caldera.
Study of Hydrothermal Vents
A key component of the expedition involves new sampling of gases and liquids from the active hydrothermal chimneys of Kolumbo. This delicate operation requires robotic vehicles capable of withstanding extreme underwater conditions.
The hydrothermal vents present in this region are particularly valuable for scientific study as they:
- Provide insight into magmatic processes
- Indicate levels of volcanic activity
- Offer clues about potential future eruptions
- Contain unique chemical compositions
These vents form when seawater penetrates the ocean floor, becomes heated by magmatic activity, and then rises back to the seafloor, carrying dissolved minerals and gases that precipitate upon contact with cold seawater.
Exciting to see the first seafloor instruments being deployed as part the @NERCscience HYDROMOX cruise offshore Santorini led by @isobelyeo of @NOCnews pic.twitter.com/Zl9nG5wQw4
— Mike Clare (@MikeAClare) March 4, 2025
Risk Assessment and Monitoring
The expedition will further investigate both new and existing geohazards stemming from the presence of fluids in the active hydrothermal fields of the region.
This component of the research is especially important given Santorini’s popularity as a tourist destination and its significant population.
The findings will contribute to:
Research Outcome |
Benefit |
|---|---|
Hazard mapping |
Improved evacuation planning |
Early warning indicators |
Enhanced monitoring systems |
Fluid pathway identification |
Better predictive models |
Magmatic process understanding |
Long-term risk assessment |
The continuous monitoring of these submarine volcanic features provides vital information for civil protection authorities and local communities.
Scientific Significance
The HYDROMOX expedition represents a significant advancement in volcanic research, particularly in understanding the relationship between hydrothermal systems and volcanic explosivity.
The caldera of Santorini, formed by a massive eruption approximately 3,600 years ago, offers scientists a unique natural laboratory.
The research findings may have implications beyond Santorini, potentially providing insights applicable to other volcanic islands worldwide.
The data collected during this expedition will be analysed using sophisticated modelling techniques to improve our understanding of how hydrothermal systems might modulate or even trigger volcanic eruptions.
International Collaboration
This expedition exemplifies successful international scientific collaboration, bringing together experts from various disciplines and nationalities.
The partnership between British and Greek scientists highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing natural hazards that do not respect national boundaries.
The expedition was more than five years in planning, demonstrating the complex logistics involved in organising such ambitious underwater research.
The team includes not only scientists but also skilled vessel officers, crew members, and logistics specialists who ensure the mission’s success.
Technical Challenges
Underwater volcanic research presents unique challenges not encountered in terrestrial volcanology:
- Pressure conditions: Equipment must withstand immense underwater pressure
- Visibility issues: Researchers rely heavily on sonar and remote sensing
- Communication limitations: Data transfer from seafloor instruments is complex
- Harsh chemical environment: Instruments must resist corrosive hydrothermal fluids
Despite these challenges, the expedition employs cutting-edge technology that allows unprecedented access to these submarine volcanic environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Earthquakes Updates in the Aegean
Recent earthquakes in the Aegean
Advice for Tourists During an Earthquake in Santorini
Tourists are advised to stay calm and seek open spaces if outside, or take cover under sturdy furniture indoors during an earthquake.
Following instructions from local authorities and emergency services is crucial for safety.
Information from the Greek Civil Protection for earthquakes (in English)
What Steps Has Santorini Taken to Boost Tourism in 2025?
Santorini has implemented several strategic measures to revitalise tourism this year. The island has increased its digital marketing campaigns highlighting authentic Greek experiences. Local authorities have also implemented a more balanced tourism tax structure that varies based on accommodation type.
The island has expanded its seasonal events calendar to attract visitors beyond the peak summer months.
April is now being promoted as an ideal time to visit with mild temperatures between 12°C and 20°C, offering pleasant conditions for exploring without the summer crowds.
Which Santorini Landmarks Are Under Preservation Projects This Year?
Several key attractions in Santorini are currently under conservation efforts:
- Ancient Akrotiri: Archaeological preservation work continues. Limited visitor numbers are allowed during restoration hours.
- Oia Sunset Viewpoints: Structural reinforcement and crowd management systems
- Volcanic Caldera Paths: Trail maintenance and environmental protection measures
- Historic Churches: Restoration of iconic blue-domed churches. Temporary scaffolding is set up at select locations.
How Are Santorini Businesses Adapting to New Tourism Approaches?
Local businesses are embracing several adaptations to align with Santorini’s new tourism strategies:
- Extended Operating Seasons: Many hotels and restaurants now remain open during shoulder months
- Sustainability Certifications: Businesses are obtaining eco-friendly credentials to attract conscious travellers
- Digital Transformation: Restaurants and shops have enhanced online booking and virtual tour options
- Authentic Experiences: Tour operators are creating more immersive cultural activities beyond standard sightseeing
What Special Offers Are Available for Santorini Holidays in 2025?
Visitors to Santorini in 2025 can take advantage of several incentives:
Incentive Type |
Details |
|---|---|
Off-peak Discounts |
Up to 30% reductions for April-May and September-October visits |
Package Deals |
Combined accommodation and experience bundles with significant savings |
Island-Hopping Passes |
Discounted ferry tickets for multi-island itineraries |
Cultural Passes |
Reduced entry to multiple heritage sites and museums |
Despite Santorini being more expensive than other Greek islands, these incentives make visiting more affordable, especially during shoulder seasons.
Are There Any Travel Limitations for Santorini Due to Preservation Concerns?
Santorini has implemented several measured restrictions to protect its natural and cultural heritage:
- Daily visitor caps at the most popular sites during peak hours
- Limited cruise ship arrivals per day to prevent overcrowding
- Restricted vehicle access in certain villages, particularly Oia and Fira
- Protected swimming zones in environmentally sensitive beach areas
What Green Initiatives Has Santorini Introduced for Responsible Tourism?
Santorini has launched several sustainable practices for 2025:
- Renewable Energy: Solar-powered facilities at beaches and public spaces
- Water Conservation: Advanced systems in hotels and reduced single-use plastic
- Local Food Movement: Promoting farm-to-table dining experiences using island produce
- Alternative Transport: Expanded electric bus network and bicycle-friendly pathways
- Community Tourism: Programmes connecting visitors with local artisans and traditions
These initiatives support Greece’s broader commitment to sustainable tourism whilst preserving the island’s unique character for future generations.
