Several landslides and falling boulders have revealed a massive need for renovation work on the almost 130-year-old Corinth Canal in recent years. After an initial closure in November 2020, the waterway has been permanently closed since January 2021 and is being repaired. However, a construction break lasting several months should now allow passage during the summer months: The Greek developer "Corinth Canal SA" announces an opening for shipping from 5 July to the end of October 2022, referring to official plans by the Greek Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.
This gives sailors the rare opportunity to take the popular shortcut between the Ionian Sea and the Aegean. The journey through the 6.3 kilometre long canal with its walls up to 85 metres high is not only a breathtaking experience. It also saves the long journey around the Peloponnese peninsula and Cape Maleas, which is notorious for its spring and autumn storms. Construction work is due to continue from the end of October. It is not known how long they will last.
The coronavirus regulations are being relaxed
Travellers to Greece can now dispense with a time-consuming procedure: Those travelling by air or sea no longer have to register online. However, the vaccination and testing requirement for all visitors over the age of five remains in place. "It is not known whether the presentation of the international vaccination card ("International Certificates of Vaccination and Vaccination Passport", yellow) will continue to be sufficient as proof. It has also not been conclusively clarified whether cross-vaccinations or only one vaccination after recovery will be recognised as full vaccination status," the Federal Foreign Office states.
According to the authority, this can be checked "without any problems" using the "Covid Free GR Verifier" app - provided that you are proficient in Greek or have intuitive user behaviour, as the app is only available in Greek. A little tip: convert a screenshot of the vaccination QR code into a PDF. This can be imported into the app and saved there. Regardless of whether you have been vaccinated, recovered or tested: In individual cases, a rapid test may still be ordered upon entry.
These regulations also apply to sailors, who are now allowed to call at any Greek harbour again, even if they are coming from abroad. From 1 May, anyone wishing to go shopping or visit a restaurant or museum will no longer need to present proof of vaccination. However, the obligation to wear a mask indoors will remain in place until 1 June.
What will the season be like in the Mediterranean?
One thing is predictable: After the long forced break in 2020 and the subdued desire to travel last year, it is likely to be very busy this summer, not only in Greece but throughout the Mediterranean. YACHT took a look around before the start of the season. In the current issue (09/2022), you will find a report on the situation in harbours and bays - and valuable tips on how you can sail in a relaxed manner despite the expected crowds. Find out more at this link.
