Ioannis Terdimos is the co-founder of Elixir Cruises, established in 2020. As the company's CEO, he provides strategic guidance and manages day-to-day operations.
Article from CruisesNews magazine no. 57 – June 2021
He works closely with his team to achieve set objectives and ensure the company's vision and mission are upheld. Elixir Cruises is a project he is passionately committed to. Ioannis has previously held several management positions in the hotel and cruise industries
Launching a new tourism product during a pandemic seems like a risky bet. When and how did you decide to start this project?
Well, as they say, "take the plunge or lose the opportunity." The truth is, the idea for Elixir Cruises has been brewing in my mind for a long time. It's a project I firmly believe in, but it's also completely in line with current trends in the cruise industry. My team and I have been preparing and searching for the right ship on the market, as it's quite difficult to find one of this size with the required specifications. Once we found it, there was no question.
Do you intend to expand the fleet?
Absolutely. We firmly believe our product has a bright future, and our plan is to grow and expand both our fleet and our destination list. However, at the same time, we intend to remain true to our values, vision, and core idea.
How would you classify the product? Luxury, expedition, boutique?
Boutique, elegant, experiential, cultural, wellness-oriented, unique.
Is this a project solely for the Greek Islands, or do you intend to expand the itineraries?
During the summer months, the Elysium will sail the Greek seas. For the winter months, our plan is to move to a destination with a warmer climate. We are currently searching for the most suitable one, offering a relaxing and culturally enriching itinerary.
What sets a cruise aboard Elysium apart?
The ship's size alone is a differentiating factor. It offers a yacht-like experience, where passengers are closer to the sea and have access to small, pristine coves. It's as simple as jumping off the platform and enjoying swimming and snorkeling.
However, Elysium is much more than its size. It offers an immersive experience where you feel not only closer to nature but also to the local culture—the real Greece. We offer our guests a diverse program with a wide variety of activities, great flexibility in organizing personalized private tours, wellness sessions, a Balinese spa, a mini-gym, water games, farm-to-table cuisine, educational workshops, and authentic experiences with local communities.
Finally, I would like to add that the smaller size of the Elysium, combined with our strict health protocols, undoubtedly makes it one of the safest ways to spend your summer 2021 vacation.
The Elysium offers a yacht-like experience, where passengers are closer to the sea and have access to small, unspoiled coves.
What type of client do you target, and what nationalities do they represent?
When we talk about targeting, we instantly mentally segment a market. I prefer to refer to the unifying traits of our clients: genuine travelers, thirsty for authenticity, seeking a relaxing, fun, and culturally stimulating experience. Our wellness approach, with yoga, Pilates, and meditation sessions, contributes to a diverse experience. Whether alone, as a couple, with friends, or with family, regardless of age, nationality, or occasion, Elysium hopes to offer something for everyone and become a hub for engaging cultural exchange.
The Greek Islands are a highly sought-after destination for Spaniards and North and South Americans. Are you also focusing on these markets?
Absolutely, we value all our customers. The Spanish and American markets are certainly high on our list of target groups. We've already seen an amazing response and are eager to welcome guests from these markets aboard the Elysium this summer. We will certainly do everything we can to provide them with an unparalleled experience.
What Greek island destinations are you visiting that aren't the usual cruise line spots?
Besides the major attractions, our itineraries include off-the-beaten-path destinations like the lesser-known islands of Serifos, Koufonisia, and Kimolos. But more importantly, they offer more unique experiences. For example, you could have an in-depth cultural immersion even on cosmopolitan Mykonos. The key is having that option, and that's what we offer. We've also incorporated activities like making a Greek komboloi, diving in the oldest submerged city in the Mediterranean, horseback riding, and cooking classes in local homes, and we intend to further enrich this list of experiences.
What kind of renovation has been done to the ship?
The Elysium has been completely renovated to reflect our company's brand and style, which is elegant and classy, with attention to detail.
Is this a year-round product or just for the summer? What are the plans for the winter season?
It will be a year-round product once our winter itineraries are finalized. We plan to begin winter season itineraries in 2022.
How are bookings going for this summer?
In short, very strong. We are grateful for the overwhelming response and hope not only to meet expectations but to exceed them. We would like to build a loyal customer base of satisfied travelers who will keep coming back to enjoy another Elixir Cruises itinerary or even the same itinerary in a different way, given the diversity we offer.
Our cruises will offer unusual experiences such as making a Greek komboloi or cooking classes in local homes.
