Greece Launches Public Consultation on Draft Law for Waterways

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has launched a public consultation on a draft law for the establishment of waterways in Greece, which will lead to the operation of seaplane flights in the country. The discussions will last until December 27.

The new draft law simplifies licensing procedures for the establishment and operation of waterways in Greece and introduces other interventions such as granting permits to private entities and establishing a committee for waterway inspections.

The bill also allows the possibility of granting waterway permits to tourist ports (marinas, shelters and berths), areas of “integrated tourism development” and complex tourist accommodations.

Moreover, according to the bill, certified Greek and foreign bodies will be able to provide training to staff, a responsibility that was previously limited to the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority.

Sector professionals underline that the voting of the bill will pave the way for the development of a viable waterway network in Greece, with the first seaplane flights to take off in the spring of 2020.

A Greek waterway network is expected to enrich the country’s tourism offering, as visitors will be able to visit even more islands – especially those that are small and isolated – during their stay in Greece.