Viking Star Alters Itinerary Due to Seismic Activity

On February 10, the cruise ship Viking Star was forced to modify its itinerary, skipping the Greek island of Santorini due to ongoing seismic disturbances in the area. Instead, the vessel docked at Souda Port in Crete, providing nearly 900 passengers the opportunity to explore the historic city of Chania.

Originally set to mark the start of Santorini’s 2025 cruise season, Viking Star was expected to offer guests stunning views of the island’s volcanic caldera and the picturesque town of Fira. However, continuous tremors in the region raised concerns over potential landslides, leading authorities to delay the island’s cruise season until further notice.

The decision to reroute follows persistent seismic activity affecting Santorini, as well as the nearby islands of Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios. Since January 26, thousands of tremors have been recorded, marking the most intense seismic period in the area since 1964. While officials stress that there is no immediate disaster, the ongoing quakes have unsettled both locals and visitors, prompting some to leave the island as a precaution.

Santorini is among Greece’s most visited cruise destinations, renowned for its whitewashed villages, dramatic cliffs, and deep blue waters. The island’s economy heavily depends on tourism, with cruise travelers playing a key role. If seismic activity persists, additional cruise lines may follow Viking Star’s lead, potentially impacting Santorini’s tourism sector further.