Maritime Ministry: 21 Greek Island Port Upgrade Projects Fast-tracked for Development

Photo source: Zakynthos Port Authority

Twenty-one Greek island port upgrade projects have been included in the strategic investments of the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF), expediting their progress, according to Greek Deputy Minister for Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Stefanos Gkikas.

The projects, aimed at upgrading key port infrastructures, are set to significantly boost development across Greece’s islands.

“Such major port projects will foster substantial development on the Greek islands,” Gkikas said during his attendance at local religious celebrations on Zakynthos island this week.

Focus on Zakynthos and Volimes port upgrades

Greek Deputy Minister for Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Stefanos Gkikas (center). Photo source: Maritime Ministry

Gkikas highlighted specific projects, including the dredging project for Zakynthos’ central port, which is now part of the HRADF’s development program for contracts of strategic importance. With a budget of 2 million eros, the project is expected to modernize the port and integrate it into the broader government development strategy for critical port infrastructures nationwide.

The deputy minister also discussed the ongoing efforts to upgrade Volimes port on Zakynthos, which has been marked as a priority for investment. The ministry is currently evaluating the potential funding of the project through the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF or ESPA in Greek) funding program, part of the ministry’s broader push to enhance the country’s island ports.

Improving health services and coastal restoration

Deputy Minister Gkikas on Zakynthos. Photo source: Maritime Ministry

Further, Gkikas announced that the ministry is considering the purchase of a maritime ambulance for Zakynthos, following the successful implementation of a similar initiative on Corfu. The maritime ambulance would improve health services for the island’s residents, addressing an important need in remote areas.

Additionally, the deputy minister outlined a 5.5-million-euro project funded by the maritime ministry aimed at fully restoring Argassi beach. This initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize coastal areas and boost tourism.

While on Zakynthos, Gkikas also visited the local coast guard office, where he was briefed on its operations.