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Greece’s Samothraki Island is set to reopen its long-closed customs gate after 14 years, aiming to accommodate the growing number of Turkish tourists and support the Visa Express program.
Located just 37 kilometers (22.9 miles) from Türkiye’s Gokceada, Samothraki has become a popular destination for Turkish tourists.
The rise in tourists showed a big issue; ferry passengers had to wait for hours at the closed customs, annoying both visitors and local authorities.
According to the Greek news outlet Voria.gr, a customs officer has been assigned to the gate and is expected to start work as soon as the required facilities are completed.
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The technical consultant from the Alexandroupolis Port Authority is preparing cost estimates and plans for the required construction to set up a customs office at Kamariotissa Port.
This step is necessary for the implementation of the seven-day visa program. Although the island was included in the program this summer, it could not be applied because the customs office is not yet operational and no staff were assigned.
Triantafyllia Salamani, Deputy Mayor for Tourism of Samothraki, told Voria.gr, “A customs officer has been appointed and will begin work once the facilities are ready. Meanwhile, the technical consultant from OLA is completing the cost and construction plans.”
Officials note that reopening the customs gate alone is not enough. Regular and direct ferry services between Samothraki and the Turkish coast must also be established to fully implement the Express Visa program.
In addition to Turkish visitors, the island is promoting itself to Balkan tourists. In 2024, promotional trips targeted France and Austria, while this year the focus is on Denmark.
Samothraki is also highlighting its scenic landscapes, rich history, authentic experiences, gastronomy and cultural activities.
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