Growing uncertainty over tourist season on Santorini

Since 26 January 2025, the Greek island of Santorini has been hit by an intense series of earthquakes. Over 18,400 quakes have been recorded, some with a magnitude of up to 5.3.

Seismic activity is primarily concentrated in the area between Santorini and Amorgos, particularly near the island of Anydros. Scientists believe the tremors may be linked to underground magma movement, though there is no definitive evidence of an impending volcanic eruption.

Cruise traffic disrupted

The earthquakes have not only raised safety concerns, but have also significantly disrupted cruise traffic. Shipping companies have begun to reroute their ships to minimise risks to passengers and crew. Alternative ports such as Chania and Heraklion (Crete), Syros and islands in the Dodecanese are now preferred.

A significant challenge in the caldera, the large volcanic crater, is the process of embarking and disembarking, which is limited to either a cable car or mule transport. According to Theodoros Kontes, honorary president of the Union of Cruise Ship Owners and Shipping Agents (EEKFN), the ongoing seismic activity is causing concern among insurance companies because safety can no longer be fully guaranteed, writes «Greek City Times».

The earthquakes are coming at a critical time, as the tourism industry is preparing for the new season. Santorini is the second most popular cruise destination in Greece after Piraeus, welcoming over 1.3 million tourists a year. However, the uncertainty caused by the earthquakes could lead to a decline in bookings and significant economic damage for the island, which depends on tourism.

Lack of a safe haven

Kontes also criticised the island's inadequate infrastructure. There is no safe harbour for ships and no long-term strategy for controlling visitor numbers. He says that building restrictions and limits on tourists should have been introduced years ago to avoid exceeding the island's carrying capacity.

The key concern now is whether Santorini can stabilize in time for the peak tourist season. Uncertainty surrounding future seismic activity is causing potential visitors to hesitate, which could significantly impact the island's economy. If the situation does not settle quickly, Santorini risks a weak tourist season and substantial financial losses.