Μake us preferred on Google Greece is preparing a new support package for its domestic ferry sector as rising fuel costs increase pressure on operators and threaten to drive up ticket prices, Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias said Thursday.
The government has decided to intervene again to help the industry, Kikilias said, emphasizing that ferry services are essential to island communities, providing transportation for residents and visitors, moving goods and supporting local economic activity.
“The Greek government will support Greek ferry shipping again,” he said, describing ferries as an important form of mass transportation that meets essential needs across the country’s islands.
Discussions have already taken place with representatives of ferry companies, and the details of the planned measures are expected to be announced in the coming days, following coordination with the prime minister’s office and the relevant ministries.
Kikilias did not disclose the amount or form of the assistance, saying the measures were still being finalized.
Government seeks to contain ticket price increases
The minister recalled previous government interventions that helped prevent a planned 15% increase in ferry ticket prices, which the industry had announced.
He linked the need for further support to the international energy crisis, saying the war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East, along with developments in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, had significantly increased energy costs.
Support for ferry operators, he stressed, extends beyond the companies themselves. Reliable and affordable maritime connections are vital to island economies, including tourism, trade, small family-run businesses and independent professionals.
Chios faces transport challenges during airport closure
Kikilias also addressed concerns about transportation to and from Chios, where the island’s airport is scheduled to close for four months.
During the winter season, ferry services are due to fall from six to three sailings per week, raising concerns about access for residents, businesspeople and military personnel traveling to and from the island.
The minister questioned the coordination between the authorities involved and the planning of the airport works, noting that the Shipping Ministry must help manage the consequences of a problem that does not fall directly within its responsibilities.
He said his ministry would seek solutions in cooperation with ferry operators and local authorities. However, he acknowledged that it could not compel private companies to increase their sailings unilaterally.
New Coast Guard unit for drug enforcement under consideration
Kikilias also discussed major drug seizures by the Hellenic Coast Guard in recent cases involving the ports of Lavrio and Chios, praising the professionalism of the personnel involved.
The ministry is considering establishing a dedicated unit to combat drug trafficking at ports, modeled on specialized services within the Hellenic Police, he said.
Authorities are also examining whether to strengthen the Coast Guard’s operational capacity by adding at least 10 specially trained drug-detection dogs.
Kikilias noted that the government plans to recruit 420 personnel for the Coast Guard in 2026. Additional staffing needs related to combating drug trafficking may also be included in the recruitment plans for 2027.
