Maritime Attractions In Greece

Greece is a treasure trove of maritime attractions, thanks to its rich history and stunning coastline. Here are some highlights:

1. Maritime Museum of Crete: Located in Chania, this museum showcases the naval history of Crete from ancient times to the modern era.
2. Aegean Maritime Museum: Situated in Mykonos, this museum offers a fascinating insight into Greece’s maritime heritage, featuring ship models, naval artifacts, and historical exhibits.
3. Hellenic Maritime Museum: Found in Piraeus, this museum houses a vast collection of maritime artifacts, including ship models, maps, and paintings, tracing Greece’s naval history from prehistoric times to the present.
4. Small Ship Cruises: Exploring the Greek islands by small ship is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea. You can swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel among sea turtles and colorful marine life, and enjoy stunning sunset views.
5. Island Hopping: Greece’s islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, are perfect for island-hopping adventures. Each island offers its own unique charm, from volcanic landscapes to traditional villages5.
6. Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Ionian Islands: These island groups are known for their picturesque harbors, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.

Underwater Archaeological Sites

Greece boasts several underwater archaeological sites, such as the Peristera Shipwreck off the island of Alonnisos, which is now an underwater museum. These sites offer a unique glimpse into ancient maritime trade and exploration4.

• Peristera Shipwreck: Located off the coast of Alonissos in the Aegean Sea, this ancient shipwreck dates back to around 425-420 BC. It’s often referred to as the “Parthenon of shipwrecks” due to its well-preserved state and the large number of amphorae (wine jars) found on the site2. It’s now part of Greece’s first underwater museum.
• Telegrafos Shipwreck: Found near the island of Amaliapolis, this late Roman shipwreck is filled with artifacts from antiquity. It’s one of the accessible sites for divers, offering a chance to explore a piece of history underwater3.
• Glaros Shipwreck: Situated near the island of Andros, this Byzantine shipwreck is another site that divers can visit. It provides insight into the maritime trade and shipbuilding techniques of the Byzantine era.
• Kikynthos Shipwreck: Located off the coast of Magnesia in the Pagasetic Gulf, this shipwreck is filled with artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine periods. It’s part of a recent initiative to open more underwater archaeological sites to the public4.

Maritime Attractions in Greece are truly an interesting experience, with so many options for your visit, whether you are a traveller or involved in the maritime industry. Feel free to drop us a line and let us know of any  others you feel we could add here.