Despite recent seismic activity on the Greek island of Santorini, tourism bookings remain high, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to ensure visitor safety.
The island, known for its breathtaking caldera views and whitewashed cliffside villages, continues to welcome travelers, though emergency measures are in place to address ongoing tremors.
The Greek Ministry of Tourism confirmed that Santorini is under a state of emergency until at least March 3, following a surge in seismic activity earlier this month. However, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni reassured the public that authorities are actively managing the situation.
“A very important message from Greece to the outside world is that we deal with whatever happens. We share all available data, and any potential visitor to Santorini should know that this activity exists,” Kefalogianni said in an interview with public broadcaster ERT.
Following a recent assessment by scientific committees, experts reported that earthquake activity within the Santorini Caldera has stabilized, though concerns remain over increased ground deformation in the broader area. To mitigate risks, officials decided to maintain security measures until at least February 22, when another review is scheduled.
Safety Measures and Travel Updates
The Municipality of Thira, responsible for Santorini, has introduced a series of precautionary guidelines based on ongoing seismic monitoring. These measures include:
- School closures: Educational institutions, including nurseries, kindergartens, primary, and secondary schools, remain closed until February 21.
- Event cancellations: All scheduled events in enclosed spaces are suspended.
- Restricted access to coastal areas: Public access to Athinios, Ammoudi, Fira, and Korfos Ports is prohibited due to safety concerns. The historic Goulas of Emporio area is also off-limits.
- Swimming pool safety: Hotels and resorts have been ordered to drain swimming pools to prevent water displacement hazards.
- Construction halt: All private construction activities in the Caldera region are suspended until February 23, 2025, except for municipal and public works.
Local authorities have also published emergency response guidelines, including designated gathering points for residents and tourists in case of a major earthquake.
Economic Impact and Government Response
While Santorini’s tourism industry remains resilient, some businesses face uncertainty as adjustments are made to accommodate evolving safety protocols. Officials have acknowledged that the island cannot operate as it did last year, and necessary changes will depend on how the situation unfolds.
In response to concerns over economic stability, Greece’s Finance Ministry is considering temporarily suspending a newly introduced tax on cruise ships, allowing for a reassessment of the island’s financial outlook in the wake of the tremors.
Meanwhile, the Maritime and Civil Protection Ministries are enhancing emergency preparedness, including plans to construct a new evacuation port on Santorini. Neighboring islands Amorgos and Anafi have also been placed under emergency status due to their proximity to the seismic zone.
Looking Ahead
Santorini remains one of Greece’s most popular destinations, attracting around 3.4 million tourists annually. While the earthquakes have prompted heightened safety measures, the island continues to operate, balancing visitor experience with public safety.
As authorities monitor developments, travelers are advised to stay informed about official updates and follow safety guidelines. With tourism at the heart of Santorini’s economy, both officials and businesses remain committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Would you still visit Santorini under these circumstances? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
