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Rural Tourism Cluster

Karpathos features in TUI’s top ten list of the best sea excursions worldwide

Karpathos is among the world’s top destinations for sea excursions, according to a new survey by TUI Musement, which recorded the preferences and ratings of travelers from around the world.

The study highlighted the ten destinations with the highest ratings for boat trips, with Karpathos taking sixth place worldwide, scoring 8.60 out of 10. This is the only Greek presence on the list, which includes popular tourist destinations from Thailand, Portugal, Cyprus, Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.

The ranking was based on an analysis of reviews from travelers who participated in sea experiences between May 1, 2024 and May 1, 2026. To be included in the survey, a destination had to have at least 1,150 reviews across all TUI Musement markets and languages.

According to the company’s data, more than 88% of travelers say they are interested or very interested in participating in sea excursions during their vacations in coastal destinations. Half-day excursions that combine sightseeing, swimming stops and visits to more than one island are proving particularly popular.

For Karpathos, TUI points out that it is one of the most authentic destinations in the Aegean, between Crete and Rhodes. Sea excursions allow visitors to explore the island’s coastline and reach secluded beaches that are not accessible by road.

Special mention is made of the excursions that connect the port of Karpathos with Diafani, then offering access to the traditional village of Olympos, which is one of the most important cultural attractions of the island. This particular experience combines the marine element with local tradition and culture, something that visitors seem to particularly appreciate.

At the top of the list is Phuket, Thailand, with a score of 8.89/10, followed by Khao Lak, Thailand (8.80/10) and Algarve, Portugal (8.78/10). The top five is completed by Madeira (8.72/10) and Paphos, Cyprus (8.65/10).

After Karpathos, the island of Sal in Cape Verde (8.48/10), Tenerife (8.32/10), Protaras in Cyprus (8.28/10) and Fuerteventura (8.15/10) follow.

The research confirms the continued rise of marine activities as a key element of the tourism product of many destinations, as more and more travelers seek experiences that allow them to get to know a place from the sea, visit isolated areas and combine recreation, nature and exploration.

Source: money-tourism.gr