Heraklion, 8 July 2026
Heraklion Port welcomed today, for the first time, the cruise ship Silver Nova, one of the most advanced luxury cruise ships internationally, on the occasion of her maiden call at the destination of Heraklion.
On the occasion of the ship’s maiden call, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony was held on board Silver Nova, in a warm and positive atmosphere, highlighting the importance of the cooperation between Heraklion Port Authority S.A., the port authorities and the international cruise sector.
Heraklion Port Authority S.A. was represented by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Minas Papadakis, who welcomed the Captain and the ship’s senior officers, noting that the first arrival of Silver Nova marks yet another important moment for the port and the destination of Heraklion. Mr. Papadakis referred to the steady enhancement of Heraklion’s presence in the cruise sector and to the Port Authority’s continuous efforts to provide high-quality services, safety, reliability and efficient support to ships, passengers and crew members.
The ceremony was also attended, on behalf of the Heraklion Coast Guard, by the Deputy Harbour Master of Heraklion, Commander H.C.G. Mr. Stavros Papaderakis, as well as the Head of the Security Sector and General Police Office, Lieutenant Commander H.C.G. Mr. Konstantinos Pastrikakis, reaffirming the essential and ongoing cooperation among all stakeholders for the safe and effective handling of cruise operations.
On behalf of Silver Nova, the ceremony was attended by Captain Alessandro Zanello, Staff Captain Danijel Car and Hotel Director Jan Novak, who expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome and the services provided to the ship during her stay at the port.
Silver Nova has been included in Heraklion Port’s arrivals schedule for the current season with a total of nine calls, reflecting Heraklion’s growing momentum as a cruise destination and its increasing presence within the itineraries of high-end cruise vessels.
The arrival of Silver Nova further strengthens Heraklion’s image as a destination capable of meeting the requirements of modern, high-quality and luxury cruising. At the same time, it highlights the strategic importance of the port, both as a gateway to Crete and as a key point in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region.
Heraklion Port Authority S.A. continues to consistently invest in the development of cruise activity, the improvement of its services and the cultivation of strong, trust-based relationships with cruise industry partners, with the aim of further promoting Heraklion as a safe, reliable and attractive destination for the international cruise market.
