The ferry service connecting Cyprus and Greece will operate for a fourth consecutive year, with the Cyprus-flagged vessel “Daleela” scheduled to begin its 2025 season on May 31 from Limassol port, maritime officials announced today.
Bookings for the popular maritime route will open on April 2, with the final journey from Piraeus port scheduled for September 2, 2025. Officials noted passenger interest is already showing significant growth 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 today’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
The maritime connection has created a new segment in Cyprus’s domestic tourism market, particularly appealing to travellers wishing to transport private vehicles and motorcycles between the two countries.
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.
Long-term sustainability prospects
Hadjimanoli emphasised 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 subsidised period ends.
“We hope this route will serve as a catalyst for new maritime connections with other neighbouring 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.
