Corinth Canal Reopens: Sail Through History Once More!

The Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering and a dream that dates back to ancient times, is officially open once again for vessel transit. After extensive restoration work due to landslides, the canal reopened on March 8, 2025, and will remain operational until November 2, 2025, offering travelers a rare opportunity to cross one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks.

The Corinth Canal, completed in 1893, connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in Greece, effectively separating the Peloponnese from the mainland while linking the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Although ancient Greeks, including Periander in the 7th century B.C., envisioned a canal, early efforts failed due to engineering challenges. The modern canal was finally constructed using dynamite and advanced tools of the time, led by Hungarian engineers. Despite its narrow width, it remains a significant maritime shortcut and a symbol of ancient ambition realized in modern times. Stretching over 6 kilometers and flanked by towering limestone walls up to 80 meters high, the Corinth Canal offers more than a shortcut—it’s a passage through time.

Whether you’re on a private yacht, a cruise, or part of a day trip, navigating the canal is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be sailing through history, in the same place where emperors once dreamed of connecting seas and where modern engineering finally made it happen.

Beyond the canal itself, the region is rich in attractions. Explore ancient Corinth and its archaeological site, unwind in the thermal spas of Loutraki, or sip world-class wines in nearby Nemea. A canal crossing pairs perfectly with a full-day excursion through the cultural heart of the Peloponnese.

The reopening of the canal is more than just the return of a maritime passage—it’s an invitation to rediscover a legendary route, framed by natural beauty and steeped in history. Don’t miss your chance to witness this engineering wonder up close, and make your Greek holiday truly unique.

Ready to cruise through the Corinth Canal?
Contact us today to book your canal-crossing experience and make your Greek travel unforgettable.

From Corinth: https://www.achtypistours.gr/corinth-tour-ancient-corinth-%E2%80%93-canal-crossing 

From Athens/Piraeus: https://www.achtypistours.gr/tour-piraeus-ancient-corinth-corinth-canal-crossing-boat 

SOURCES:

1. Press Release: Corinth Canal Reopening Update

https://corinthcanal.com/2025/03/04/press-release-corinth-canal-reopening-update/?lang=en 

1. Corinth Canal to close again for maintenance works

https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1251112/corinth-canal-to-close-again-for-maintenance-works/ 

1. The History of the Canal

https://corinthcanal.com/the-canal/the-history-of-the-canal/?lang=en