Greece’s Yachting Industry Boosted by Digital Upgrades

Photo source: Olympic Yacht Show

Greece ranks second among the world’s most popular yachting destinations, bolstering its global standing thanks to its unique comparative advantages, according to Greek Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy Stefanos Gikas.

Speaking at the recent opening of the Olympic Yacht Show 2024 at the Olympic Marine marina in Sounio, Gikas highlighted recent government-led efforts to modernize the regulatory framework governing pleasure and tourist day boats. He noted improvements in the operational and service regulations for yachting businesses, as well as streamlined bureaucratic procedures.

Greek yachting gets boost with new digital tools

In his address, Gikas outlined several e-applications developed or soon to be launched by the ministry to support the sector’s smooth operation. These include the “e-N.E.P.A.” platform, where yachting companies can digitally establish their businesses, and the “e-Charter Permission” application, which allows shipowners and operators to apply for charter licenses for boats recognized under the laws of other countries. Additionally, the soon-to-be-launched “e-Charterparty” application will facilitate the submission and management of yachting contracts.

Greek Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy Stefanos Gikas. Photo source: Olympic Yacht Show

Gikas also reported a 10 percent annual increase in yacht and pleasure boat registrations via the “e-mitroo-ploion” platform, with 500 new pleasure boats added this year. The platform serves as a registry for private pleasure boats under the Greek flag, professional pleasure boats regardless of flag, and professional tourist boats.

Furthermore, the deputy minister emphasized ongoing enhancements to Greece’s port and docking infrastructures. Currently, projects totaling nearly 300 million euros, funded in part by the European Union, are underway.

“Greek yachting has the potential to become a global leader, following in the footsteps of our country’s ocean shipping industry,” Gikas remarked.

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Greek Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy Stefanos Gikas with ONDECK Media Director Gerasimos Gerolimatos (left), organizer of the Olympic Yacht Show. Photo source: Olympic Yacht Show

Regarding the Olympic Yacht Show, which is supported and promoted by the Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Gikas said that the event exemplifies the rapid development of yachting in Greece. “This sector serves as a significant source of income and employment, contributing to the national economy,” he said.

Now in its fourth year, the Olympic Yacht Show has become a premier in-water boat show in Greece, showcasing a variety of superyachts, boats, and tenders. Running from October 7-13, the show features over 90 new yachts on display, including several world premieres from Greek shipyards, and hosts some of the largest names in the yachting industry, both on land and water.

Photo source: Olympic Yacht Show

The opening ceremony of the Olympic Yacht Show was attended by several government officials, representatives from Greece’s coastguard, professionals from the yachting sector, and Giorgos Prokopiou, the owner of the Olympic Marine marina where the event was hosted.