Greece is committed to making its beautiful beaches accessible to all, including those with mobility challenges. Through the installation of the SEATRAC system, over 280 stunning beaches in Greece are now wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
The government of Greece, recognizing the importance of beach accessibility, is launching an initiative to attract more disabled tourists. By summer 2023, 287 beaches, with 220 ready next year, will be fully accessible. Leading this change is the SEATRAC system, which gently lowers individuals into the water via a movable track and a remote-controlled chair. Once in the water, users can freely swim after exiting the chair, thanks to a supporting handrail. In addition to SEATRAC, an ‘accessibility chain’ on all equipped beaches ensures accessible parking, pathways, changing rooms, restrooms, and covered areas for people with disabilities to relish the beach experience.
This initiative sets an inspiring example for other nations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that individuals of all physical capacities can enjoy natural and recreational settings alike. The initiative is not limited to Greece, as SEATRAC is already in use in Italy, Cyprus, and Latvia, and is expanding further into Croatia, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Turkiye.
In an effort to foster inclusivity, Greece is investing €15 million in a project to install wheelchair-friendly ramps, update restrooms, changing facilities, parking, snack bars, walkways, and other amenities to improve accessibility at 287 beaches nationwide. The initiative is dedicated to breaking down barriers and to ensure that every beach becomes a welcoming haven for individuals of all abilities.
The SEATRAC system, founded by Gerasimos Fessian and Ignatios Fotiou, aims to provide meaningful support for those seeking to embrace the seaside. Initially conceived in 2009 and commercialized in 2012, SEATRAC has proven beneficial for various groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with conditions like multiple sclerosis. The project is a testament to the transformative power of human determination and collaboration, setting a precedent for inclusive travel experiences.
