Central Macedonia Boosts Cruise Tourism Appeal with Strategic Promotion Campaign

Photo source: Thessaloniki Port Authority

The Region of Central Macedonia recently wrapped up an extensive promotional campaign to showcase its growing potential as a premier cruise tourism destination in key European markets.

In a strategic effort to strengthen its presence in France, Germany, and the UK, the region partnered with One Whole Communication Experts Travel and Tourism to promote Thessaloniki, Pieria, Halkidiki, Imathia, Pella, and Serres as year-round destinations. The campaign highlighted the authentic and diverse tourism experiences these regions offer.

A central focus of the program was the promotion of Thessaloniki Port as a key homeport hub in Greece. Its strategic location within the Mediterranean makes it an ideal departure point for cruises. The port’s proximity to Thessaloniki’s city center, coupled with the rich cultural and historical landmarks, allows passengers to explore the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites without extensive travel.

Argyro Papaioannou, Executive of the Department of Tourism Promotion and Advertising, Directorate of Tourism, Region of Central Macedonia; Froso Zaroulea, Strategic Communication Partner, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism; Olga Daniilidou, Translator at regional unit of Serres; Alexandra Kardami, Founder & CEO, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism; and Kornelia Gavouchidou, Consultant, Kleber GROUP.

“This targeted campaign has positioned Central Macedonia as a rising, diverse tourism destination. It emphasizes our ability to attract cruise companies, standing out from overexposed and saturated markets,” said Vicky Hatzivasileiou, Vice-Regional Governor for Tourism.

The promotion also sought to elevate Central Macedonia’s profile as a gastronomy destination, combining the region’s natural beauty with abundant opportunities for outdoor exploration and relaxation. Central Macedonia’s centuries-old monasteries further underscore the region’s rich religious heritage, complementing its deep historical roots.

Key actions: Partnerships, webinars, newsletters

Froso Zaroulea, Strategic Communication Partner, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism; Adam Coulter, Executive Editor, Cruise Critic UK; Alexandra Kardami, Founder & CEO, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism; and Maria-Nefeli Mavrommati, Content Management Specialist, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism.

Key actions within the program included:

– A new partnership with the renowned cruise tourism platform Cruise Critic. This partnership featured articles, banners, and social media campaigns promoting Central Macedonia’s gastronomic and natural attractions throughout the year.
– Webinars conducted in collaboration with leading media companies, aimed at promoting the region to key tourism professionals.
– Targeted newsletters sent to over 10,000 tour operators, travel agencies, and cruise industry professionals in France and Germany.

“Through strategic actions and partnerships with influential players in the global tourism sector, we have successfully captured the attention of key industry professionals,” Hatzivasileiou added. “These efforts lay the foundation for the long-term, sustainable growth of Central Macedonia as a prime cruise destination.”

Alexandra Kardami, Founder & CEO, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism; Leonidas Tsiantis, Head of Tourism Planning & Coordination Department of the Region of Central Macedonia; and Froso Zaroulea, Strategic Communication Partner, One Whole Communication Experts Travel & Tourism.

One Whole Communication Experts Travel and Tourism is a specialized agency offering a full spectrum of communication services. The agency is known for its tailored marketing campaigns that integrate traditional PR strategies with innovative approaches, focusing on the tourism, hospitality, and travel sectors.