Are Greek Islands Allowing Cruise Ships?

By Alice Nichols

Greece is a country known for its beautiful islands, rich history, and warm hospitality. Every year, millions of tourists from all over the world visit Greece to explore its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine.

One popular way to experience the Greek islands is by taking a cruise ship. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many are wondering if Greek islands are allowing cruise ships to dock.

Current Situation

As of August 2021, Greece is allowing cruise ships to dock at its ports and visit its islands. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines in place to ensure the safety of both passengers and locals. The Greek government has implemented a color-coded system based on the level of COVID-19 risk in each region:

  • Green zones: Low risk areas where no special measures are required.
  • Yellow zones: Medium risk areas where additional restrictions may apply.
  • Red zones: High-risk areas where stricter measures are in place.

Cruise Ship Guidelines

All cruise ships that want to dock at Greek ports must follow specific guidelines issued by the government. These guidelines include:

  • Vaccination requirements: All passengers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a negative PCR test result before boarding.
  • Masks and social distancing: Passengers must wear masks in indoor public areas and maintain social distancing.
  • Contact tracing: Cruise companies must keep records of all passengers and crew members for contact tracing purposes.

The Future of Cruise Tourism in Greece

The Greek government is closely monitoring the situation and may change its guidelines depending on the COVID-19 risk level in each region. However, with the vaccination rate increasing and strict measures in place, it is likely that cruise tourism will continue to be allowed in Greece.

Conclusion

For those who are planning to visit the Greek islands by cruise ship, it is essential to check the latest guidelines and restrictions before traveling. While there are some restrictions in place, cruise tourism is still allowed in Greece, and visitors can enjoy the beauty of its islands while staying safe.