**State Subsidy Essential for Continued Cyprus-Greece Ferry Service**
The future of the ferry connection between Cyprus and Greece hangs in the balance, with Scandro Holding Ltd’s chief executive, Charalambos Manoli, emphasizing the necessity of renewed state subsidies for the service to continue. In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency, Manoli outlined the ongoing challenges faced by the ferry route, which was launched in 2022 following approval from the European Commission for a three-year state subsidy, later extended for an additional three years.
Manoli stated that the long-term objective of establishing a financially self-sustaining ferry service has not yet been realized. He noted that without an increase in passenger numbers, the ferry service could face its final year of operation in 2027. "There is not such a big demand, as in Greece, where people use the ships to travel between islands," he explained, indicating a significant difference in travel habits between the two regions.
The ferry service operates seasonally, running from late May to early September. During the peak summer months, passenger numbers vary significantly. In June, the ferry typically carries around 100 passengers per trip, while in July, this number increases to between 200 and 250. August sees the highest demand, with the ship reaching full capacity. This season, the AF Marina, which operates the route, recorded its highest passenger count of 380 on a recent trip from Limassol.
Manoli pointed out the inherent challenges of maintaining a sustainable ferry service that operates only three months of the year. He stressed the need for strategic planning during the remaining nine months when the ferry is not in operation. The lack of flexibility to transport cargo or other goods further complicates the financial viability of the service.
Looking ahead, Manoli highlighted additional factors that could impact the ferry's operational costs. Currently, ferries are exempt from EU tariffs on carbon dioxide emissions, but this exemption is set to be lifted at the end of 2029. Following this change, fines for emissions will be imposed, necessitating an increase in state subsidies to cover these new expenses. Additionally, rising fuel prices are expected to further strain the ferry's financial sustainability.
Despite these challenges, Manoli expressed optimism about finding a way to continue the service beyond 2027, provided there is a commitment to subsidizing the ferry line. He also shared insights into passenger demand trends, noting that bookings for 2026 have remained consistent with those of 2025. In 2026, the ferry recorded approximately 8,900 passenger bookings, 2,700 for vehicles, and 371 for pets. Comparatively, in 2025, there were 8,238 passengers, 2,660 vehicles, and 379 pets.
Manoli acknowledged that while many travelers are familiar with the ferry experience, some still harbor misconceptions, believing they are booking a cruise ship rather than a passenger ferry. This misunderstanding highlights the need for continued public awareness efforts regarding the nature of the service.
The AF Marina's final trip for the current season is scheduled for September 1, departing from Piraeus. As the ferry service approaches the end of its operational year, the call for renewed state subsidies becomes increasingly urgent, underscoring the critical role of government support in maintaining this vital connection between Cyprus and Greece.