Amorgos Fears Mass Tourism Like Santorini and Mykonos

The tranquil seaside village of Katapola on Amorgos Island has recently experienced a surge in tourism, sparked by the arrival of the MSC Explora I cruise ship on August 1. This massive vessel, measuring 248 meters in length and accommodating 461 suites, disrupted the calm of Katapola Bay during its 24-hour stay. Locals are concerned about the ship's return on August 28, fearing that increased tourism could lead Amorgos down the same path as Santorini and Mykonos, which have been overwhelmed by visitors. Tourism plays a significant role in Greece's economy, contributing approximately 30% to the national GDP and supporting around 40% of jobs. The number of tourists visiting Amorgos has doubled over the past six years, with 100,000 visitors recorded in 2023, predominantly during the summer months. This influx is particularly striking given the island's small population of fewer than 2,000 residents, leading to a divide among locals regarding the benefits and drawbacks of tourism. Theofanis Paschos, a local hotel owner, acknowledges the potential for growth in tourism but expresses a desire to maintain Amorgos's unique character. In contrast, Eleftheria Psychogou, a member of the hoteliers' union, warns against overdevelopment, citing the rapid changes seen in Paros, where 1,300 building permits have been issued between 2018 and 2023. As the Cyclades islands grapple with the impacts of tourism, the balance between economic benefits and preserving local culture remains a contentious issue.