Despite rising costs, ferry travel to the Aegean islands is showing a strong recovery this July, marking a significant turnaround after a sluggish first half of the year.
According to figures from Greece’s Ministry of Shipping, the first ten days of July (1–10/7) saw an 11.96% increase in passenger and vehicle traffic from the three main ports of Attica — Piraeus, Lavrio, and Rafina — compared to the same period in 2024. In total, 325,768 passengers were transported, up from 290,944 last year.
Recovery After a Slow Start
The positive start to July comes after ferry traffic fell by approximately 7% in the first six months of 2025. While high ticket prices remain a concern, travelers appear increasingly willing to absorb the cost, suggesting that price alone is not enough to deter summer plans.
The Argosaronic Gulf region recorded the most striking growth, with a 19.6% rise in passenger numbers and an 18.96% increase in private vehicles. Ferry departures in the region also rose by 12.41%.
From Piraeus, one of Greece’s busiest ports, traffic to the Aegean islands rose by 10.91%, while vehicles increased by 4.64%. Notably, this occurred despite a slight reduction in the number of ferry routes (-2.14%), pointing to higher occupancy rates on available services.
Lavrio and Rafina See Gains
The port of Lavrio registered a 14.66% increase in passengers, along with an 8.14% rise in ferry departures. Rafina, while maintaining nearly the same number of sailings, saw passenger traffic increase by 4.83% and vehicle transport grow by 8.89%.
Ferries Remain a Competitive Option
Ferry travel continues to hold an advantage over air travel, primarily due to lower costs. Industry analysts highlight that a family of four traveling with a vehicle by ferry from Piraeus to Aegean islands (excluding high-demand destinations like Mykonos and Santorini) can save up to 40% compared to flying — especially when car rental costs at the destination are factored in.
Fuel Costs and Port Fees Pose Challenges
Although ferry ticket prices have remained relatively stable so far this year, this stability is partly due to a 50% reduction in port fees and lower fuel costs during the first half of 2025. However, recent increases in oil prices have raised concerns about higher operating costs for ferry companies. Wage increases for seafarers are also putting additional pressure on operating budgets.
Meanwhile, a delay in implementing reduced port fees at Heraklion remains unresolved, pending a final agreement between the Heraklion Port Authority and the Greek government regarding upcoming environmental infrastructure projects.
While it’s too early to make definitive predictions for the full summer season, the rebound in July is an encouraging sign for the maritime transport sector. Increased occupancy rates, the return of travelers, and the cost-effectiveness of ferry transport all suggest a potentially stronger third quarter for Greece’s ferry operators.
