Greece has begun distributing €23.2 million in Transport Equivalent payments to more than 281,000 residents of islands across the country, the Ministry of Maritime and Insular Policy announced.
The payment covers the reimbursement of part of the cost of ferry and air travel undertaken by eligible residents between July 1 and December 31, 2025.
With this payment, the repayment of the Transport Equivalent program for the entire year of 2025 has been completed, as part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Maritime and Insular Policy and the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Island Policy to support Greece’s island communities.
The ministry noted that, during 2026, more than €60 million in total has been allocated to support island residents, island-based businesses and fuel transportation costs.
Kικilias highlights support for island communities
Greek Minister of Maritime and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias said the Transport Equivalent, maintaining connectivity, keeping ferry ticket prices stable and ensuring safety have been among his ministry’s main priorities.
“The payment of the Transport Equivalent, ensuring connectivity, keeping ticket prices stable at all costs and, of course above all, safety, were the main non-negotiable goals I set from the first day I took office at the Ministry of Maritime and Insular Policy,” Kikilias said.
He added that Greece has continued efforts to limit increases in ferry ticket prices amid international challenges, including war and the energy crisis.
“We increased funding for unprofitable ferry routes and moved forward with four-year tenders, so that we can have stable maritime connections for our islands,” he said.
Regarding maritime safety, Kikilias said that inspections of vessels of all types have exceeded 1,800 so far.
Support for island transportation
Kikilias described the Transport Equivalent as a measure directly affecting the daily lives of thousands of island residents.
“With today’s payment, repayment for 2025 is completed and more than 281,000 residents of our islands receive more than €23.2 million as a refund of part of the cost of their travel,” he said.
He added that Greece’s islands represent a strategic and comparative advantage for the country and stressed the need to continue supporting their residents.
“We have a duty to strengthen them and support their inhabitants by every possible means. This is our patriotic duty, and we will continue with strategic planning and consistency,” Kikilias said.
