Santorini Experience: A Greek Sports Tourism Brand that Went Global

Photo by Elias Lefas

This article is brought to you by Active Media Group

Santorini, one of the top tourism destinations in the world, has managed, within the last few years, to create its own strong Greek brand for sports tourism, “Santorini Experience” through the co-organization of the Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) and Active Media Group.

The top and award-winning sports tourism event, which gathered more than 6,000 visitors from 45 countries last year, will take us to the island of Santorini, for the 5th consecutive year, on October 4-6, 2019 through running and swimming races.

Special offers on ferry tickets & accommodation packages

All those traveling to the island by ferry for the 5^th “Santorini Experience”, will be able to enjoy once again this year the safety and comfort of Blue Star Ferries. The top Greek shipping company offers 50% discount on the ferry tickets, from/to Santorini and 30% discount on vehicles to all those visiting the event and the island from October 1^st to 12^th 2019. Each person who has completed his/her registration is entitled to the same discount for 3 more people (if these are his/her escorts) or for 4 people (if these are family members).

Photo by Elias Lefas

Travel to Santorini, under the ideal weather conditions from October 4-6, and take advantage of the accommodation offers from hospitality sponsors and partners of the event like VitaNTravel which offers accommodation packages starting from 170€ per person for three days, including accommodation and ferry tickets. For more information, press here.

At the same time, Avance Rent A Car gives the opportunity to participants in the 5^th “Santorini Experience” to make their reservation, for any vehicle of their choice regarding their travel to the island during the period of the event, with a 30% discount on the official price list until June 30^th. Whereas from July 1st and until the event, reservations will have a 15% discount. In terms of bookings, participants need to send an email to sales(at)avance.gr

Photo by Elias Lefas

The unique volcanic energy is one of the elements that makes the swimming race of “Santorini Experience” stand out. Specifically, participants have the opportunity to swim the 1.5 miles (2.4 km) route from the volcano to the old port of Fira, having the imposing view of the island in front of them, in the open water swimming by Vikos.

The race is held under the technical direction of federal coach with Olympic and World Championship distinctions, Nikos Gemelos, the FINA regulations and the safety of the Boatmen Union Santorini and Lifeguard Patrol.

Following is a video with statements made by world class swimmers such as Spyros Gianniotis (silver Olympic medalist), Jazz Carlin (two times silver Olympic medalist), Kelly Araouzou (world champion), Attila Manyoki (member of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame), George Arniakos (European Champion).

From 1/4/2019, participants may register in the event with a 25% discount per activity. The third and final wave of registrations will begin from 1/6/2019 and last until the event, with the final registration cost being applied. Register now.

“Santorini Experience” has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2019 program of the European Commission and is under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.

Official sponsors of the event are Ford Motor Hellas, Athina Luxury Suites, Natural Mineral Water “Vikos”, Blue Star Ferries and Alafouzos Sport. For one more year, Luanvi is the official sports supplier of the event.

Photo by Elias Lefas

“Santorini Experience” is assisted by West East Suites, Lifeguard Patrol, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Mediterranean Dive Club, Atlantis Dive Center and Santorini Nautical Club.

Official supporters of the event are: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Boatmen Union Santorini and Avance Rent A Car. National Geographic is the strategic partner of the event. DNA Travel is the official transport partner.

Hospitality Sponsors of the event include the Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, Vedema a Luxury Collection Resort, Mystique a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santo Houses, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, Sienna Resort, Esperas Santorini, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Iokasti Villa, Olive Cave Houses, Mesana Stone Houses.