THE CYPRUS TO GREECE FERRY

LIMASSOL TO PIRAEUS

The Cypriot-flagged ship ‘Daleela’, owned by SCANDRO HOLDINGS LTD, runs twice weekly maritime connections from Cyprus to Greece. Starting every year during May, the service runs throughout the summer until mid-September. The service operates exclusively between Limassol in Cyprus and Piraeus in Greece. The ferry usually departs Limassol for Piraeus on Sundays and Wednesdays and returns every Tuesday and Friday. The service is very popular and sailings usually sell out very quickly. As a result, online reservations and ticket purchase systems operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

A MINI BREAK OR HOLIDAY

Enforced by increased traveller numbers, the ferry service, it seems has created a new segment in the overseas travel market. The minimum 30-hour plus journey has not deterred travellers from undertaking the voyage. Travellers have stated that they simply treat the journey as part of their mini break or holiday. Regular travellers have also stated that they enjoy the ferry and its facilities, along with the fresh air and the stunning views along the way. Others have said that easily travelling from Cyprus to Greece, and the rest of continental Europe, with their cars, pets, and motorbikes, far outweighs the 30-hour-plus journey. The route has successfully transported an average of over 7,000 passengers, 450 pets, and nearly 2,500 vehicles each year since its inception.

PRICE INCREASES

Ticket prices are subsidised and are purposely kept low, but they do marginally increase every year. These increases account for inflation and rising fuel prices. The introduction of a new green tax is also expected to bring about further gradual ticket price increases. The price range for the service varies depending on the cabin and passenger category chosen.

SUBSIDISED GROWTH

The existence of this type of passenger ferry line is undoubtedly intertwined with the demand and the market conditions that shape it. There are still some questions as to whether the route will become viable after the Government subsidy ends. Figures so far are positive, and there is a general belief that the ferry line will hold its own. Demand for the service should ensure that it will become Cyprus’s permanent maritime connection with the rest of continental Europe.