In swimsuits, water up to their waists, bags on their shoulders… the pictures published on social networks show that tourists have to go by sea to reach Balos beach in Crete. According to witnesses recounting the scene in local media, children and the elderly were forced to stay on board for fear of jumping.
“Only about forty people got off the boat and everyone came back angry and disappointed,” explains the American tourist. Zarpanews.
The Greek government has recently taken a number of measures to try to curb the problem over tourism in certain places. Among them, a ban on boat platforms to prevent holidaymakers from disembarking in large numbers at Balos. This bay is famous for its white sand, turquoise waters and rare animals and plants with protected status.
“It is worrying that the government forbids boats to dock at Balos Bay, but allows them to stop 10 meters away,” said a TripAdvisor tourist quoted by The. Dailymail: British. This rule seems absurd and seriously affects the experience. »
The return of the platform
A complete turnaround after these somewhat embarrassing images aired. “The floating platform was removed by the decision of the Ministry of Environment. The images we saw, however, raised serious concerns and the municipality contacted the ministry regarding its recovery,” Kisamos Mayor Giorgos Milonakis told public broadcaster ERT about his return.
And added: “It is not only a matter of security, but also of reputation. Balos is one of the most beautiful places in Greece and we want to guarantee the best possible experience for everyone. »
In 2008, Greece, hit by the sovereign debt crisis, recovered thanks to tourism. The country is now close to an overdose. In 2023, it will host more than 32 million, three times its population, a record, allowing it to collect €20.5 billion in revenue. And this is despite prolonged heat wave and: devastating fires.
The government is aware that over-tourism on some islands risks destroying the reason holidaymakers go there and putting pressure on infrastructure, particularly water resources. However, he must find the right balance so as not to scare away foreign investors.