Chevron Set to Begin Seismic Surveys off Crete's Coast in December

Major American energy companies Chevron and ExxonMobil are pushing forward with their plans to explore for hydrocarbons off the coast of Crete. According to a meeting between Greece's Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and Chevron's head for Greece, Beatrice Bienvenu, Chevron is expected to begin seismic surveys in December 2026 in areas south of Crete.

The company is also preparing surveys in the Ionian Sea and south of the Peloponnese. The seismic surveys will use 2D and 3D techniques to build a clearer picture of the geology beneath the seabed, but drilling has not been announced for December.

HelenniQ Energy is collaborating with Chevron on these projects, which include four new offshore concession areas: A2, South Peloponnese, South of Crete 1, and South of Crete 2. The seismic surveys are the second stage in Greece's emerging offshore energy picture, following concession agreements.

The environmental impact is a key consideration for residents and visitors to Crete, as the waters south of the island are part of a marine environment that matters to fishing, shipping, coastal communities, and tourism.