Several popular Greek islands are grappling with severe water shortages, prompting emergency declarations and potentially altering summer vacation plans for tourists. Astypalaia, located in the southeastern Aegean, is experiencing the most significant impact, with its reservoir facing a severe drought. Mayor Nikos Komineas described the situation, stating that if all the water dropped throughout the year were collected, it would only measure 2.5 centimeters deep.
Other affected islands include Tinos, Alonissos, Leros, Patmos, Symi, and Karpathos. Tourists visiting these locations may experience low water pressure during peak usage times, such as evenings. Some coastal hotels are opting to fill swimming pools with seawater instead of freshwater, and local authorities are implementing restrictions on non-essential water use.
To conserve water, some hotels are introducing innovative measures. Maria Alkalai, a hotelier on Astypalaia, is offering guests a €5 voucher if they opt out of daily room cleaning, a practice she says has been well-received by clients.
Travel insurance experts are advising holidaymakers to check local travel advisories and their insurance policies before traveling to affected areas. Nick Parkhouse, a travel insurance expert at Go.Compare, noted that while water shortages shouldn't deter travelers, they serve as a reminder to verify travel advice and coverage. He added that most travel insurance policies do not cover cancellations due to water shortages, especially if the issue was widely reported before departure. Cancellation might be applicable only if the UK Foreign Office advises against travel and the insurance was purchased before the shortage was publicly known.
The National Centre For Scientific Research Demokritos in Athens has warned that the drought conditions could worsen by 2049. Concerns also exist about the potential for insufficient rainfall next year to support the high volume of tourists Greece attracts. While the UK Foreign Office has not issued specific advice regarding the water shortages, it has highlighted the elevated risk of wildfires in Greece during the summer season, from April to October.