Hellenic Shipping Chamber Honors George Vernicos for Contribution to Maritime Tourism in Greece

NEE’s President George Alexandratos, George Vernicos Daughter Marina Vernicos, George Vernicos, Maritime Minister Christos Stylianides. Photo source: Vernicos Yachts

Greek tourism professional George Vernicos was recently honored by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping (NEE) for his pivotal role in advancing Greece’s maritime tourism.

For four decades, Vernicos has served on NEE’s Board of Directors, where he facilitated collaborations between the yachting sector and the chamber, strengthening its mission to promote maritime tourism. In recognition of his contributions, NEE’s president, George Alexandratos, and Greek Maritime Minister Christos Stylianides presented Vernicos with a plaque of honor and named him an honorary member of the chamber’s Board of Directors.

Vernicos, president of Vernicos Yachts since its founding in 1975, has been a pioneer in Greek marine tourism. Beyond this, he holds influential roles in the industry, including serving as secretary general of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), president of INSETE (the research institute of SETE), and honorary president of the Hellenic Professional Yacht Owners Association (EPEST).

During his speech upon receiving the award, Vernicos expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the yachting industry, enabling him to represent it on NEE’s Board of Directors for forty years.

“Every Greek ship around the world represents our homeland,” he said, highlighting the vital role of professional yachts in supporting the viability of even the most remote Greek islands.

He also extended his thanks to all past chamber presidents and board members for their expertise, cooperation, and dedication to protecting the interests of Greek shipowners.

George Vernicos

George Vernicos.

Born into a ship-owning family on the island of Sifnos, Vernicos’ maritime roots trace back to the mid-19th century in Istanbul, where his ancestors specialized in tugboats and lifeboats. The family later expanded their business to Piraeus in the 1920s, establishing a tradition of maritime excellence that Vernicos has carried forward through his leadership in the yachting and shipping industries.

In addition to managing Vernicos Yachts, he has played a key role in co-founding the Attica Group, the first Greek shipping company to be listed on the Athens Stock Exchange. He also served as president of the Hellenic Register of Shipping and has managed shipping companies operating ocean-going and coastal vessels.

Dedicated to promoting marine tourism, Vernicos represents the sector in both the Economic and Social Council of Greece (OKE) and its European division.