Captain George Koumpenas, President of the Union of Cruise Ship Owners and Celestyal Cruises CEO, joins “Saturday Shift“, the Saturday special edition of the show “Fair Winds and Following Seas” with Antonis Karagiannakis.
In this insightful conversation, Captain Koumpenas affirms Greece’s position as a premier global tourism destination and shares his optimism for the continued growth of Greek cruising in 2025. He discusses key issues such as port infrastructure, homeporting, and managing cruise traffic in high-demand destinations like Mykonos and Santorini, offering strategies to address overtourism.
He explains how Greece’s unique geography—with its numerous islands, scenic coves, and relatively few large ports—naturally supports a shift toward smaller cruise ships and more intimate travel experiences. He also highlights emerging destinations and the evolving landscape of cruise tourism in the country.
Captain Koumpenas also reflects on his life at sea, recounting how he first found his calling in shipping, and he shares personal stories—including his deep connection to his beloved Aegina.
Sound Engineering: Stefania Tsakiri
Produced & Presented by Antonis Karagiannakis