The Association of Owners of Crewed Tourist Boats (SITESAP), which represents approximately 750 enterprises and 2,500 commercial yachts across Greece, has flagged significant sustainability challenges facing the sector as the new tourist season approaches. The tourist season has extended in recent years, beginning in mid-March and ending in mid-November, but during the peak months of July and August, there were notable occupancy gaps. This decline in demand has been attributed mainly to the rising costs of airline tickets and high temperatures, prompting some international tourists to prefer northern destinations.

Despite signs of improved conditions for the upcoming season, the industry is grappling with heightened international competition, which hinders any substantial adjustment of charter rates. Concurrently, the rising operational costs, including docking fees, insurance, repairs, fuel, and other raw materials, have further squeezed profit margins. The industry is under pressure not only to attract tourists but also to ensure sustainability in its operational practices, making urgent infrastructure support a necessary focus.

The message from SITESAP serves as a wake-up call for both industry stakeholders and policymakers to consider strategic investments in infrastructure and support systems to bolster the professional yachting sector's resilience and sustainability. Adequate solutions are imperative to address these challenges, ensuring that Greece remains a competitive player in the international tourism market as it navigates through a period of significant operational pressure and shifting traveler preferences.