LIMASSOL TO PIREAS
THE PASSENGER FERRY SERVICE, WHICH CAN CARRY UP TO 394 PASSENGERS & 300 VEHICLES BETWEEN CYPRUS & GREECE, RESUMES ITS SERVICE ON MAY 31ST. THE SERVICE THEN WILL OPERATE A REGULAR SCHEDULE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 1ST 2026
A MINI BREAK OR HOLIDAY
The seasonal passenger ferry service from Cyprus to Greece, it seems, has created a new segment of the overseas Cypriot travel market. The service has attracted both seasonal and regular travellers, who have stated that the minimum 30-hour plus journey has not deterred them from undertaking this voyage. Several have also claimed that the ability to easily travel from Cyprus to Greece and the rest of continental Europe, with their cars, pets, and motorbikes, far outweighs the journey time. Other travellers have stated that they treat the journey as part of their mini break or holiday. They have gone on to state that they have previously enjoyed the ferry and its facilities, taking in the fresh air and stunning views along the way.
TICKET SALES
Ticket sales begin in April, and then the service usually operates from May through to September every year. Although ticket prices are subsidised, they do marginally increase every year. This accounts for inflation and rising fuel prices. The price range for the service varies and depends on the passenger category chosen at the time of booking.
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 subsidies end, but figures so far are positive. Demand for the service should ensure that it will become Cyprus’s permanent maritime connection with the rest of continental Europe.
General information
- This service is seasonal and normally operates from the final week of May to the first week of September
- The route takes place between Limassol and Piraeus
- The journey time is approximately 30 hours
- Tickets usually go on sale during April
- Bicycles travel for free
- All cabins include private toilets and shower facilities
- There are several public seating areas and a reception desk
- There is a restaurant, a café bar, a casino and a medical clinic
A NEW VESSEL FOR 2026
THE ITALIAN FLAGGED AF MARINA TO REPLACE THE DALEELA
The Italian-flagged AF Marina will take over from the Daleela ferry in 2026. The latter has successfully operated the passenger ferry service for the previous four consecutive seasons. The service, which has recorded constant passenger increases, will still be operated under the same contractor, Scandro Holdings Ltd.
AN ENHANCED EXPERIENCE
The Italian-flagged AF Marina will offer enhanced amenities and an expanded passenger capacity. Unlike its predecessor, the new vessel has designated cabins for those travelling with animals. The new ship will also increase the passenger capacity to 394 people. They will be accommodated in a total of 10 double cabins, 20 single cabins and 58 quadruple cabins. This vessel also features two triple cabins for disabled passengers, eight quadruple cabins for passengers with pets, and 84 airline-style seats. All cabins are equipped with private beds, toilets, and showers. The ferry’s on-board facilities include a café, a restaurant, a casino and a medical clinic. There are 22 routes scheduled for the 2026 season, and the fares for the service have remained the same as the previous year.
