By Paris Tsirigotis

The port of Corfu has won a significant international distinction, ranking first in Greece, among the Top 10 in Europe and 19th worldwide, according to research by the Australian service comparison platform Compare the Market Australia.

This recognition, which was based on seven indicators such as visitor experience, activities and weather conditions, confirms Corfu's potential as a leading cruise destination and strengthens its reputation in the international tourism landscape.

The high score that Corfu Port received in online visitor reviews (4.2/5) highlighted the positive experience enjoyed by travelers and strengthened the climate of trust in the destination. At the same time, the significant number of activities corresponding to 193.6 per 100,000 visitors, attests to the island's potential as a destination that offers rich leisure and cultural options.

The factors that contributed to the distinction include the favorable climatic conditions which ensure the safe and comfortable approach of cruise ships, upgrading the overall experience of visitors.

The CEO of the Corfu Port Authority, Dimitris Apergis, stated: "This international distinction is a reward for the continuous effort made by the organization to upgrade services and enhance the visitor experience. The Port of Corfu has established itself among the top cruise destinations, and in this direction we will continue with consistency and vision to work for a port that is an international model, modern, safe and friendly to visitors."

Herakleion port is also becoming a pillar of development for Crete and Greece.

The master plan of the Herakleion Port Authority was presented by its CEO, Minas Papadakis, in a meeting with press representatives.

During the meeting, Papadakis pointed out that "we are here to talk about our path, our vision and how the port of Herakleion is becoming a pillar of development for Crete and Greece."

He presented the strategic directions of the master plan, adding that special emphasis is placed on the cruise sector, which is a key pillar of economic development.

Specifically, Papadakis stated:

The cruise industry has taken a dynamic course, with 2025 poised to be a milestone year, following an increase in cruise ship arrivals, new routes that include Heraklion in key hubs, and record visitor numbers. This surge contributes decisively to the local economy, trade, gastronomy, and culture. So far, in 2025, 179 arrivals have taken place with 373,866 passengers, while 294 arrivals with 550,000 passengers are expected by the end of the year.

Over a six-year period, cruise ship arrivals have increased by 44%, and passenger numbers have risen by 80%.

However, October is expected to be "strong" with 52 arrivals, while traffic will continue until December, which proves that cruising contributes to the extension of the tourist season. At the same time, it was emphasized that the operation of the new airport is expected to bring a boost, especially to home ports, with 2026 being a strong year for cruises.

Regarding the investments planned under the master plan, the CEO emphasized that the port of Herakleion is entering a new era of sustainable development.

The port's master plan

The port's master plan includes: A new building for the Port Authority, additional areas for warehouses-logistics, the ability to receive up to four cruise ships at the same time, a hotel and a conference center, new floating piers with the ability to dock up to 15 catamarans, east and south of the current port authority, upgrading the shipbuilding and repair zone, use of the free zone for a car terminal.

Finally, Papadakis added that the vision is "to make Heraklion a reference point in the Eastern Mediterranean, strengthen the competitiveness of the port with high-quality services, become a pillar of green development by incorporating innovative environmental practices, and function as a bridge of culture and tourism, highlighting the unique character of Crete."