Greece, one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe, has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s economy heavily relies on tourism, which has significantly decreased due to travel restrictions and safety concerns.
As a result, Greece is trying to find ways to revive its tourism industry while ensuring the safety of its citizens and visitors. One of the questions on everyone’s mind is whether Greece is allowing cruise ships to dock in its ports.
What is the current situation?
As of June 2021, Greece has announced that it will allow cruise ships from certain countries to dock in its ports. This decision comes after months of strict measures that prevented cruise ships from entering Greek waters. However, there are certain conditions that need to be met before cruise ships can enter the country.
What are the conditions for cruise ships?
Cruise ships are required to follow a set of guidelines issued by the Greek government. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members while minimizing the risk of spreading COVID-19. Here are some of the conditions:
- All passengers and crew members must be fully vaccinated or have a negative COVID-19 test result
- Cruise ships must have an onboard clinic with medical staff trained in COVID-19 protocols
- Cruise ships must follow strict hygiene protocols, such as regular cleaning and disinfection
- Passengers and crew members must wear masks in indoor public areas
- Cruise ships must have a designated isolation area for suspected cases
It’s worth noting that these conditions may change depending on the evolving situation with COVID-19.
Which ports are open for cruise ships?
Currently, Greece has opened several ports for cruise ships, including Piraeus (Athens), Corfu, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. However, the number of ports may vary depending on the situation.
What does this mean for tourists?
The decision to allow cruise ships is a positive sign for Greece’s tourism industry. It means that tourists can once again explore the country’s beautiful islands and ancient sites while enjoying the luxury of a cruise ship. However, it’s important to note that there may still be restrictions in place, such as capacity limits and social distancing measures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greece is allowing cruise ships from certain countries to dock in its ports as long as they follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members. This decision is a step towards reviving Greece’s tourism industry while minimizing the risk of spreading COVID-19.
If you’re planning to take a cruise to Greece, make sure to check with your cruise operator for the latest information on ports and restrictions. With proper precautions, you can enjoy all that Greece has to offer while staying safe and healthy.