The IDEAS project aims to develop and evaluate innovative digital solutions and artificial intelligence technologies to improve passenger flow management, visitor experience and sustainability of cruise tourism.

The proposed project involves the development of an innovative digital platform that will leverage advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, Big Data Analytics and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies. The platform aims to provide a dynamic tool for passenger traffic forecasting, scenario modeling and decision support for port management bodies, tourism businesses and local municipalities. By collecting and processing data from multiple sources – such as reservation systems, smart sensors, etc. –, the system will allow for the capture of the current situation and the prediction of future situations in terms of flows, congestion, resource consumption, etc.

In this way, the decongestion of the most burdened points is enhanced and lesser-known but equally important local points of interest are highlighted. Finally, the project is expected to become a model of good practice for other tourist areas in the Mediterranean, providing a comprehensive framework for the digital transformation of the port and tourism sector, which will combine sustainability, innovation and smart governance.

Through the collaboration of scientific, technological and institutional bodies, the project aspires to transform the port gateways of Western Greece into models of "smart" and sustainable tourism hubs, which will combine cultural identity, technology and the visitor experience.