Over 79% increase in cruise ship arrivals in first four months of 2025

Dynamic start to the year for the Corfu Port Authority (OLKE) – Corfu a “front-line destination” in cruising, with arrivals throughout the year

Corfu is in the spotlight of international cruising with an impressive performance during the first four months of 2025 and cruise operations beginning as early as January.

• Increase in cruise ship arrivals in the first four months of 2025, with 64 calls compared to 36 in 2024

• 89,000 passengers arrived on the island in the first four months of 2025, compared to 49,667 during the same period in 2024

• 406 cruise ship calls and 745,000 passengers are expected between May and December 2025

The cruise sector in Corfu got off to a remarkable start in 2025, according to aggregated data from the Corfu Port Authority (OLKE) for the January–April period. Corfu’s port consistently ranks among the most popular destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, with cruise ship arrivals throughout the year and growing interest from international shipping companies in including Corfu on new itineraries. Expanding the tourist season and focusing on high-quality tourism are central pillars of OLKE’s strategy for 2025.

As a result, the first four months of 2025 saw 64 cruise ship arrivals at Corfu Port, compared to 36 during the same period last year, with passenger traffic also rising significantly, reaching a total of 89,000 passengers, compared to 49,667 last year — an increase of over 79%.

This year began with particular momentum, as the first cruise ship docked on January 3rd, effectively marking the uninterrupted operation of the cruise sector on the island and reinforcing the goal of extending the tourist season. The extension of the season is also expected to be supported by 111 scheduled cruise ship arrivals and over 180,000 passengers at the Port of Corfu during the crucial period from October to December 2025.

These figures are especially encouraging not only for the port but also for the island’s entire local community, as a significant positive impact on local businesses is anticipated. As highlighted in the study presented by OLKE in collaboration with the Democritus University of Thrace at the recent conference titled “Port of Corfu: A Gateway for Growth in the Local Community and Economy – The Contribution of Cruising”, the total added value from the port’s operations and cruise activity to the local economy during the 2023–2024 period exceeded €190 million, a figure that, by all indications, is expected to increase significantly this year.

The CEO of Corfu Port Authority, Spyros Zervopoulos, stated:
"The impressive start of the cruise season at the Port of Corfu in the first months of 2025 is a clear indication that our port continues to steadily gain international trust, and Corfu stands as the most important gateway to the country from the West. Through targeted partnerships, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on passenger experience, we are strengthening Corfu’s role as a pillar of development and tourism promotion for the wider region, boosting its economy."

The Port of Corfu is evolving into a strategic hub for the Adriatic, with clear added value for both the local and national economy. The year 2025 is expected to be a milestone in expanding its presence in the international tourism and maritime network.

For more information:
Alexandra Kardami
[email protected]
Tel. 210 6095044

About OLKE S.A.

Corfu Port Authority S.A. (OLKE) is a public limited company with the Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations as its sole shareholder and manages the Port of Corfu.

OLKE primarily provides services related to ship berthing and the transportation of passengers and vehicles, aiming at the continuous improvement of services, visitor safety, and faster and better customer service. It also promotes sustainable practices to create a “green” and innovative port.

Finally, it continues to promote and enhance the image of Corfu and its advantages—such as its natural beauty, hospitality infrastructure, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, and of course, its numerous ferry and air connections to major destinations.