Greece’s World-Famous Maritime Festival Expands To Cyprus, Positioning The Island As A New Powerhouse For Sustainable Sea Tourism And Blue Economy Leadership

Friday, June 20, 2025

Greece’s iconic International Sea Tourism Festival is making a landmark debut in Cyprus, marking a new chapter in the region’s maritime history. Set to take place from October 25 to 28, 2025, at the cutting-edge Ayia Napa Marina, the event—traditionally held in Greece—will unite global marine industry leaders, innovators, exhibitors, and tourism stakeholders for four days of networking, exhibitions, and forward-thinking dialogue. This strategic move not only honors Greece’s maritime legacy but also positions Cyprus, particularly the Free Area of Famagusta, as a rising hub in the Eastern Mediterranean for sustainable sea tourism and Blue Economy leadership.

Cyprus to Host International Sea Tourism Festival for the First Time in Historic Maritime Milestone

For the first time in its history, Cyprus is preparing to host the prestigious International Sea Tourism Festival — a globally recognized celebration of maritime innovation, tourism, and sustainability. Traditionally held in Greece, this high-profile event will make its debut in Cyprus from October 25 to 28, 2025, taking place at the state-of-the-art Ayia Napa Marina, one of the island’s most modern and ambitious coastal developments.

This landmark event is being organized in close partnership with the Deputy Ministry of Shipping of Cyprus and BoatsAdvisor Hub & Events, and will be conducted under the auspices of the Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus, underlining its national importance. It symbolizes a major step forward for Cyprus’s role in the global maritime arena and positions the island as a serious contender in the Eastern Mediterranean for future sea tourism investments.

A Mediterranean Celebration of Maritime Excellence

The 2025 International Sea Tourism Festival is set to unite a dynamic cross-section of global maritime stakeholders—ranging from elite marine industry leaders and innovative boat builders to yacht operators, eco-conscious organizations, tourism strategists, and cutting-edge tech developers and thousands of visitors passionate about the sea.

Over the course of four days, the festival will transform Ayia Napa Marina into a dynamic and interactive hub for marine enthusiasts and professionals alike. The event is designed not only to showcase the latest in sea tourism and marine technology but also to foster a meaningful dialogue around the concept of Blue Growth — an EU-driven policy that promotes sustainable economic development in ocean-related sectors.

This year’s edition has a strong strategic focus: to promote Cyprus, and especially the Free Area of Famagusta, as a future-facing maritime destination capable of supporting year-round marine tourism, environmental stewardship, and cutting-edge innovation.

Exploring the Future of the Blue Economy

The festival will feature a broad spectrum of exhibits, displays, and workshops centered on three pillars: technology, sustainability, and education. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to interact with next-generation innovations in the maritime space, including electric boats, hydrogen-powered marine engines, smart marina infrastructure, digital navigation systems, and eco-friendly marine accessories.

Meanwhile, tour operators, hoteliers, and destination managers will present a wide array of packages and services that align with modern traveler expectations — from environmentally-conscious luxury yacht charters to adventure-based sailing holidays, and community-driven coastal experiences.

One of the major highlights of the event will be a series of expert panels and open forums where industry leaders and policymakers will explore ways to integrate traditional maritime industries with future technologies and sustainability goals. These conversations will play a key role in shaping Cyprus’s long-term ambitions for the Blue Economy, with a focus on generating jobs, supporting local communities, and protecting marine ecosystems.

Connecting Commercial Shipping and Sea Tourism

Unlike many other marine festivals, the International Sea Tourism Festival aims to bridge the gap between commercial shipping interests and sea-based tourism ventures. Cyprus — with its advanced shipping registry and strategic geographic location — is well positioned to benefit from a tighter integration of these two vital sectors.

The festival offers a platform where shipping companies, port authorities, tourism professionals, and entrepreneurs can explore collaborative opportunities that stimulate innovation, reduce environmental impact, and attract investment to the region.

This integration of sea tourism and commercial marine operations is expected to lead to improved maritime infrastructure, streamlined regulations, and increased economic synergy across multiple industries — from shipbuilding and logistics to hospitality and marine education.

A New Era for Cyprus’s Maritime Identity

Welcoming the International Sea Tourism Festival marks a transformative milestone in Cyprus’s journey to becoming a leading force in global maritime tourism. With its rich seafaring history, extensive coastline, and strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus has long held potential as a global maritime player. Now, with Ayia Napa Marina as a showcase venue and strong institutional support behind it, the island is ready to take a leadership role.

Beyond immediate tourism benefits, the event is projected to catalyze long-term economic development by attracting international attention, strengthening public-private partnerships, and fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability in marine-related industries.

Greece’s renowned International Sea Tourism Festival is set to make its historic debut in Cyprus this October, marking a major step in the island’s rise as a Mediterranean maritime hub. The event honors Greece’s legacy while propelling Cyprus into the spotlight of sustainable sea tourism and Blue Economy leadership.

As the festival welcomes thousands of global visitors, exhibitors, and investors, it will send a powerful message: Cyprus is open for maritime business, and it’s serious about becoming a top-tier destination for responsible sea tourism, sustainable development, and regional cooperation.