Top representatives of the maritime and tourism industries gathered at the “Blue Horizons” Conference on Sea Tourism and Development, held as part of the International Sea Tourism Festival 2025, to discuss strategic investments, sustainable marina development, and opportunities in sea tourism across the Eastern Mediterranean.
The discussion highlighted the close cooperation between Cyprus and Greece, marked by continuous intergovernmental communication, joint initiatives, and the exchange of expertise – all aimed at reinforcing the two countries’ position as regional hubs for maritime tourism and blue growth.
Greece: Investing in maritime tourism as a strategic policy
The Greek Deputy Minister of Shipping, Stefanos Gikas, noted that since 2019 the Greek government has made the development of maritime tourism a central policy priority. He underlined the multiple benefits this sector brings to national economies and local communities, pointing in particular to Greece’s Western Region strategy, which envisions the creation of a comprehensive hub for yachting and marinas to help retain and expand sea tourism flows across Greece and the broader region.
Gikas also addressed the global competition in maritime tourism and the blue economy, citing Croatia’s success with 55 fully organised marinas as an example. He praised Cyprus’ steady progress in marina development, noting the island’s growing capacity to offer integrated travel and service options to visitors – and expressed his admiration for the Ayia Napa Marina.
Cyprus: A rising investment destination
Cyprus’ Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kostas Koumis, stressed that investment in sea tourism adds value to the national economy and serves as a major driver of growth.
He pointed out that Cyprus has not missed the “train” of international investment, as new marina projects and the implementation of a modern licensing framework make the country an attractive destination for investors.
Koumis added that intensifying international competition demands strategic thinking and joint action to capitalise on Cyprus’ comparative advantages – including its clean waters and strategic geographic position.
Public-private partnerships and sustainable growth
Stavros Karamountanis, President of the Cyprus Marinas Association, highlighted the crucial role of public–private cooperation. He described marinas as strategic pillars of development and international investment destinations, highlighting that green transition, digitalisation, and the adoption of new technologies are essential for ensuring the sustainable operation of marinas and for turning them into integrated hubs for tourism, shipping, and real estate.
He also noted that investment incentives must be sustainable, predictable, and attractive in order to draw international investors.
Business leadership and competitiveness
Stavros Stavrou, President of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), underlined the organisation’s role as a guardian of fair competition. He stated that Cyprus, as an island nation, enjoys significant comparative advantages in maritime tourism, which must be leveraged through strategic planning.
Stavrou stressed the importance of investment incentives that strike a balance between investor appeal and economic sustainability for Cyprus.
The panel discussion was moderated by journalist Marios Adamou.
