**Cyprus-Greece Ferry Service Secured Until 2027, Future Subsidy Decision Pending**
The passenger ferry service connecting Cyprus and Greece is confirmed to operate until 2027, with a crucial decision regarding government subsidies expected next year. Kyriakos Aliouris, the deputy director of the shipping ministry, announced the extension of the existing contract, which began in 2022 and was initially set for three years with an option for an additional three years.
Aliouris provided clarity on the current operational status of the ferry service, stating, “Until next summer, the contractor is obliged to provide the services based on the terms of the contract.” He reassured the public that there are no immediate issues affecting the service, emphasizing that the ferry line will continue to function normally, ensuring a sea connection between Cyprus and Greece.
However, the future of the ferry service beyond 2027 remains uncertain, particularly regarding the financial viability of the route without continued state support. Charalambos Manoli, chief executive of Scandro Holding Ltd, which operates the ferry, expressed concerns that the service may not be sustainable without renewed government subsidies. He pointed out that the ferry service currently operates seasonally from late May to early September, with passenger numbers significantly lower outside the peak summer months.
Manoli reported that during June, the ferry typically carries around 100 passengers per sailing, which increases to 200-250 in July, while August sees full sailings. He argued that operating a ferry service for just three months a year is not financially viable, stating, “You can’t run a sustainable line for three months.” He highlighted the need for the vessel to generate income throughout the remaining nine months of the year to maintain operations.
The shipping ministry is aware of these concerns and has been collecting data on passenger demand since the service's inception. Aliouris noted that the introduction of the subsidy was necessary due to the lack of reliable data on demand at the time. “There was no data at all about what was happening. We didn’t know if and how much people would use it,” he explained.
Over the five years of operation, the ministry has gathered sufficient data to assess the ferry service's viability. Aliouris indicated that a proposal will be submitted to the cabinet next year after the current operating period concludes. He cautioned against making premature decisions regarding the service's future, stating, “So at this moment it is both premature and risky to say anything, whether it is stopping or continuing. No decision has been made.”
Despite the challenges, Aliouris pointed out that passenger traffic has been increasing year on year, suggesting that the service has been positively received by the public. He also highlighted the social importance of the ferry service, which provides an alternative for individuals unable to fly, those with health concerns, and travelers wishing to transport pets or vehicles to Greece.
In terms of passenger statistics, bookings for the ferry service in 2026 reached approximately 8,900 passengers, along with 2,700 vehicles and 371 pets. This marks a slight increase from the previous year, which saw 8,238 passengers, 2,660 vehicles, and 379 pets transported.
Looking ahead, the ferry service's sustainability will also be influenced by operating costs, particularly in light of rising fuel prices and the potential impact of EU carbon emissions charges. Aliouris acknowledged that any future subsidy would need to consider these economic factors and regional conditions at the time.
As the current season approaches its end, the final sailing from the port of Piraeus is scheduled for September 1. The outcome of the upcoming subsidy decision will be pivotal in determining the long-term future of the Cyprus-Greece ferry service.