Corfu Port Authority S.A. has joined ARGONAUT, a cross-border project under Interreg VI-A Greece-Italy 2021-2027 that focuses on cleaner shipping and greener maritime tourism. The first meeting took place yesterday morning in Taranto, Italy. It set in motion joint actions such as new digital navigation tools and low-emission upgrades in pilot ports around the Adriatic and Ionian.
How will the project impact Corfu?
For Corfu, in the Ionian and within the Decentralized Administration of Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian, the plan is to modernize port operations and raise environmental standards in the busiest months. Tests of electric charging for small boats and smarter route planning aim to cut emissions and make approaches safer. The port also wants a stronger international profile in nautical tourism.
What will residents and visitors gain?
Expect cleaner air along the waterfront, quieter day-to-day work at the quays, and better services for recreational boats. Training will build local know-how in sustainable navigation and port management, so businesses tied to yachting and cruise stopovers can grow without putting extra strain on sensitive coastal areas.
What exactly is planned?
- Adriatic Maritime Route Planner: a real-time platform with AI support to help chart safer, more eco-friendly routes.
- Green transformation of pilot ports: upgrades in Gallipoli, Corfu and Patras, including electric charging points for boats.
- ARGONAUT Network: a cross-border forum to share practical know-how in nautical tourism.
- Training and upskilling: theory and hands-on programs focused on sustainable navigation and port operations.
Who took part in the kickoff?
At the opening meeting, Corfu Port Authority CEO Dimitris Apergis sat down with Gianfranco Gadaleta, coordinator of the Joint Secretariat of Interreg Greece-Italy, and Dimitris Katsaros, secretary general of the Decentralized Administration of the Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian. Italian partners from Puglia and the Municipality of Gallipoli, along with the Port Authority of Patras in Greece, will bring coordination, communication, infrastructure know-how, and training.
When will works begin?
Yesterday’s session in Taranto marked the formal start of the program. The source did not include a detailed timeline or budget. Corfu Port Authority said it will draw on previous European and INTERREG experience to roll out digital tools and green mobility actions, with the next milestones to be announced through official channels.
Where to find more information?
Residents and stakeholders can follow updates from Corfu Port Authority S.A. and the Interreg Greece-Italy program. More details on how the plan will run in Corfu will be published as schedules and procurement steps are confirmed.
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