Greek tourism is on the brink of totally collapsing as data reveals that sea ferry reservations have plummeted by 50% in July, while accommodation bookings are losing potentially 50,000 guests per day! From the moment Greek PM Alexis Tspiras announced the referendum, Greece’s economic steam engine, its tourism industry is virtually crumbling.
Hoteliers, restaurateurs and travel agents are in complete despair. According to Michael Sakellis, president of (SEEN) Greece’s Association of passenger ferries, cancellations by passengers have doubled in July from the normal 10% to 20%, while adding that new bookings are down 50% compared to last year’s figures!
Greek passengers, who normally comprise half the total number are expected to cancel their trips because they have no cash! Meanwhile, Crete is feeling the brunt of the effect, as bookings are down by 75%. As ferry boat agents say the sea routes to Crete are in the worst situation because they are mainly dependent on Greek travellers. The dramatic economic conditions have forced sea ferry companies to cut down sea routes, as in some occasions passengers are less that their crews!
