The Two-Month Ban: Ensuring Visitor Safety

In an effort to bolster public safety, local authorities and the government have temporarily restricted certain activities
in the Old Port until May 5. While this might initially sound like a major inconvenience—especially for those
planning a shore excursion in Santorini—it’s part of a broader strategy to improve infrastructure and preparedness
across the island.

During this ban, cruise ships that typically dock at the Old Port are being rerouted to the new port of Athinios.
Many locals have wondered why Athinios wasn’t the default option from the start, given its capacity to handle larger ships and heavier visitor traffic.
Still, better late than never: the shift offers a chance to reimagine how Santorini manages its annual influx of tourists
while preserving the Old Port’s charm and historical value.

The Recent Earthquake: A Wake-Up Call

Earlier this year, Santorini experienced an earthquake that, fortunately, did not result in significant damage or injuries.
Nevertheless, it was a stark reminder that the island’s breathtaking caldera landscapes were born from volcanic activity—and that seismic events
are a part of life here. Earthquakes, by nature, are unpredictable and can happen at any time.

For both local and government authorities, the quake served as a wake-up call to revisit and reinforce safety measures. While it’s natural
to feel apprehensive, the truth is that this event has sparked a renewed focus on ensuring that the island’s infrastructure—from roads
to facilities like the cable car—remains secure and well-maintained.

The Cable Car: Safety Adjustments

A major talking point has been the Santorini cable car, which connects the Old Port to the town of Fira. Often crowded
during peak season, the cable car is now undergoing temporary shutdowns to implement additional safety features, primarily aimed
at preventing potential rockfalls in the event of another earthquake.

Is It Still Safe?

Absolutely. The cable car remains as safe now as it was last year. The current updates are precautionary steps
designed to make it even more secure over the long term. Once these safety adjustments are completed, the cable car will be
better equipped to handle a wide range of conditions, offering peace of mind to tourists and locals alike.

Addressing Congestion: An Unintended Benefit

For years, visitors have voiced frustrations about the congestion at the cable car terminal. The pauses in service during this two-month ban
have inadvertently illustrated what a lower-density approach to island travel might look like. By directing visitors to alternative routes—or
to the new port of Athinios—long lines and bottlenecks might become less of a norm.

In many ways, this challenge presents an opportunity. With fewer people relying solely on the cable car, Santorini could explore diversified
transport solutions, easing pressure on peak travel points. This not only improves the visitor experience but also creates a safer environment
by spreading out crowds.

Cruise Ships and Shore Excursions

f you’re booking a shore excursion in Santorini, you can now look forward to the full reopening of the Old Port and its upgraded cable car facilities. Cruise ships are once again tendering passengers directly to the Old Port, restoring the classic Santorini arrival experience that travelers cherish345. The temporary arrangement that routed cruise arrivals exclusively through Athinios Port has ended as of May 5, and the Old Port is now fully operational for cruise tenders.

With the Old Port and cable car back in service, visitors can enjoy a seamless and scenic ascent from the waterfront up to Fira, the island’s cliff-top capital. This means you can choose to arrive via the Old Port’s refreshed facilities-making for a picturesque and efficient start to your Santorini adventure-or, if preferred, continue using Athinios Port, which remains available for larger vessels and those seeking direct road transfers34.

Cruise schedules for May 2025 confirm a steady flow of ships arriving and departing through Santorini’s ports, with the Old Port once again at the heart of the island’s cruise experience135. Travelers can now plan their excursions with confidence, knowing that Santorini’s iconic arrival route is open and ready to welcome them.

Why This Could Be a Good Thing

While nobody wants to deal with unforeseen disruptions, there’s a silver lining to this situation. The recent earthquake and subsequent
two-month ban have spurred local and government authorities to elevate safety standards, not only for this season but for many years to come.

In fact, these temporary measures may save Santorini from larger issues down the road. With infrastructure improvements in progress,
the island will be better prepared for any future seismic events, ensuring that it continues to shine as one of Greece’s crown jewels.

Looking Ahead: A Safer, More Efficient Santorini

The recent improvements are more than just a response to natural events-they represent a long-term investment in Santorini’s sustainable tourism. By temporarily rerouting cruise traffic to Athinios Port and reducing congestion at the Old Port and cable car terminals, authorities have demonstrated new ways to manage visitor flows and protect the island’s unique character23.

Looking for more information on Santorini’s safety measures? Check out my older post for an in-depth look at how the island
continually updates its policies:

Santorini Safety & Tourism Measures
.

Final Thoughts

From the majestic views of the Old Port to the stunning sunsets and volcanic landscapes, Santorini remains a bucket-list destination
for travelers worldwide. While the two-month ban may create temporary adjustments, it also signals a proactive commitment to visitor
safety and the island’s long-term preservation.

So, as you look forward to your next shore excursion in Santorini, take heart in knowing that the island is taking steps
to ensure a safer, more enjoyable journey—not just this year, but for many seasons to come.