Significant changes in forecasts for the course that cruises and tourism in the Eastern Mediterranean will take this year due to recent developments in the Middle East.
According to Mr. Theodoros Conte, honorary president of the Union of Cruise Ship Owners and Shipping Agencies who expressed strong concern about the new tourist season that has just begun, the initial expectations are diminishing.
The clashes of the last few days in the wider region, with the involvement of Iran, the United States and Israel, have already affected the climate of the tourist market.
The clashes of the last few days in the wider region, with the involvement of Iran, the United States and Israel, have already affected the climate of the tourist market. As he pointed out, the concern is not limited to the countries directly involved, but extends to the entire Eastern Mediterranean, including Greece and Turkey. Initial estimates of cruise growth in 2026 of 4-5% compared to 2025 have now been revised. “If the tension continues as we approach the peak of the tourist season, the forecasts will have to be revised,” he said.
Uncertainty about the cruise at the beginning of the tourist season
The events take place at a particularly critical time, as Spring marks the start of tourism and cruise itineraries. According to Mr. Conte, there is already a strong concern for the Eastern Aegean and neighboring destinations, but other regions of the country are not included.
Particular concern is also registered in the main markets that support Greek tourism – the United States, Israel, Turkey, Europe and the countries of the Middle East. Tour operators and cruise companies appear cautious, considering alternative scenarios.
Under the current circumstances, the objective has changed: maintaining the 2025 performance can be considered a success if the geopolitical crisis lasts.
Itinerary changes are possible
New ships are planned for 2026, including luxury cruise ships with new destinations in Greece. However, many companies are already considering changes in routes, with a possible transfer of activity to Northern Europe – although the available ports are limited – or to the Western Mediterranean.
A decisive role is expected to be played by American passengers, who constitute the majority of clients in the region. The strengthening of the Caribbean as a destination, combined with the declining dollar that makes travel to Europe more expensive, creates additional pressures.
Increased cost and energy impact
At the same time, the crisis burdened the operating costs of tourism and sailing, mainly due to the increase in fuel, transportation and general time.
Of particular concern is the situation in the Straits of Hormuz, where the return of ships from Asia to Europe is affected. Ships unable to pass through the area are forced to follow the circumnavigation of Africa, which greatly increases time and cost.
Ships stranded in the Middle East
In the Middle East region, where popular cruise destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha are booming, there are already Greek-managed cruise ships and many more facing difficulties returning to the Mediterranean. Closed airports, supply problems and difficulties in changing passengers make the smooth running of programs more difficult.
Another message about the vulnerable area
Mr. Contes emphasized that the situation reminds once again how geopolitically sensitive the Eastern Mediterranean region is. The hope of the market for a quick reduction of tension to avoid severe effects in an industry that has just begun its seasonal activity.