The International Sea Tourism Festival in Rhodes showcases maritime opportunities, sustainable tourism practices, and innovative sea technologies, strengthening Rhodes’ role in Mediterranean sea tourism.
The International Sea Tourism Festival recently showcased in Rhodes from October 25-28 is rapidly cementing its role as a focal point for maritime and sea tourism professionals across the Mediterranean and beyond. Organized by Anastasios Kostantaros, who also serves as the CEO of the Rhodes Tourism Promotion Organization (PROTOUR), the festival emphasizes sustainable tourism, innovation, and regional collaboration, providing an engaging platform for industry leaders and enthusiasts to network and explore.
This year’s event, which marked its fourth edition, featured over 4,000 visitors and around 30 international journalists, creating significant global visibility. By bringing together yacht owners, sea tourism businesses, and professionals from sectors including diving, cruising, and water sports, the festival demonstrated Rhodes’ commitment to driving the maritime economy. It served as a hub for industry advancements, particularly with discussions focused on sustainable methods and smart technologies that are transforming sea tourism in the Mediterranean.
The International Sea Tourism Festival is more than just a local initiative; it is evolving into a global movement. Building on its success, the festival plans to expand its influence with its fifth edition scheduled for 2025 at the Ayia Napa Marina in Cyprus. As one of the Mediterranean’s most innovative marina projects, the new location underscores the festival’s ambition to create international synergies and showcase Mediterranean yachting and maritime tourism to a broader audience.
Beyond his role as the festival organizer, Mr. Kostandaros leads the Rhodes Tourism Promotion Organization with a vision to elevate Rhodes as a year-round tourism destination. The island, which welcomed approximately 3 million visitors in 2024, aims to diversify its tourism offerings, focusing on convention and business tourism, off-season travel, and more. Despite the challenges faced by global geopolitical issues, rising energy costs, and environmental concerns, the Rhodes Tourism Promotion Organization actively seeks collaborative solutions with partners to ensure tourism’s resilience and sustainability.
The International Sea Tourism Festival serves as a testament to Rhodes’ capacity for innovation and leadership within the maritime tourism sector. It is a prime example of how targeted events can foster growth, collaboration, and sustainability, not only enhancing local economies but also contributing to the broader narrative of Mediterranean tourism excellence. As the festival expands its horizons, it continues to strengthen Rhodes’ position as a central player in sea tourism while adapting to the evolving needs and expectations of global travelers and industry professionals alike.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
