Fourth Year Launch for Cyprus-Greece Ferry Service Amid Surging Demand
Fourth Year Launch for Cyprus-Greece Ferry Service Amid Surging Demand
The Cyprus-Greece ferry service is set to operate for a fourth consecutive year, with the Cyprus-flagged vessel Daleela scheduled to launch its 2025 season on May 31 from Limassol port, maritime officials announced.
Bookings for the popular route will open on April 2, while the final journey from Piraeus port is set for September 2, 2025. Officials highlighted a notable increase in passenger interest compared to previous seasons.
The continuation comes after Cyprus’s Council of Ministers approved a three-year extension of the contract with operator Scandro Holding Ltd in August 2024, maintaining the same terms for the 2025-2027 period.
“We are particularly pleased to announce that following an evaluation of the route’s performance criteria, the Council of Ministers approved the contract extension while maintaining the same terms,” said Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanoli during Monday’s presentation.
The service will continue to receive state subsidies under the Service of General Economic Interest (SGEI) framework, with annual funding of €5.5 million.
Economic and tourism implications of the Cyprus-Greece ferry link
The maritime connection has created a new segment in Cyprus’s domestic tourism market, particularly appealing to travelers wishing to transport private vehicles and motorcycles between the two countries.
The voyage is also popular with students who want to transport a greater amount of belongings, as well as with those who aren’t keen on flying or simply want the luxury of a longer trip.
During its three years of operation, the ferry service has transported:
- 22,582 passengers
- 7,641 accompanied vehicles
- 772 pets
Officials confirmed only a minimal price increase of approximately one euro for the upcoming season, while bicycle transport will be offered free of charge.
Last year, first-class four-berth cabin tickets are 63 euros ($68) one way and 126 euros ($137) for a roundtrip. Second-class prices are 50 euros ($54) one way and 96 euros ($104) for a return. Airline-style seats are 38 euros ($41) and 76 euros ($82) for those who don’t want a cabin for the overnight voyage. For the new price list follow the link
Long-term sustainability prospects
Hadjimanoli emphasized that long-term sustainability projections for the route remain positive, expressing hope that the maritime industry will maintain interest in continuing the service after the subsidized period ends.
“We hope this route will become the catalyst for new maritime connections with other neighboring countries in the near future,” she stated, adding that the Deputy Ministry of Shipping would support efforts to permanently establish passenger sea routes between Cyprus, Greece, and potentially other countries in the region.
The “Daleela” will continue to operate between Limassol and Piraeus ports, offering an alternative transportation option that has steadily gained popularity with both tourists and residents since its inception.