The Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Vasilis Kikilias, reiterated the government’s commitment to keeping the cost of ferry travel in check while speaking on ERTNEWS’s “Connections” program.
As he emphasized, the ministry’s top priority remains safety in maritime transport, noting that more than 1,300 routine and unscheduled inspections have already been carried out on coastal vessels, tourist boats, day-trip boats, ferries, and ferry boats, according to the relevant press release.
“Safety is our top priority. Beyond that, our goal is for coastal shipping to operate in accordance with the rules, in a calm manner, and with respect for the people who work at sea, the islanders, Greek travelers, and visitors to the country,” he said.
“Ferries are a necessity for Greek families”
Regarding ferry ticket prices, the Minister emphasized that the government has fought “a very hard battle” to keep them from rising, despite international pressures on energy prices and the unstable geopolitical environment.
“For a family to spend a week on an island—whether it’s their grandparents’ island or wherever they choose—is not a luxury for Greeks. It’s a necessity. Ferries and coastal shipping are a means of transportation for the people because they serve the masses. That is why we are fighting so hard to keep prices from rising,” he said.
Mr. Kikilias also pointed out that, to date, these efforts have paid off, while he also mentioned the discounts announced for high-speed ferries—ranging from 24% to 42%—for families and groups of three people purchasing round-trip economy-class tickets.
“The fact that we’ve reached the end of June, with July ahead of us, and discounts of 24% to 42% are being announced is a very significant moment. It shows that competition is working to the benefit of the public,” he noted.
Transportation Equivalent and Unprofitable Routes
Mr. Kikilias made special mention of the Transportation Equivalent, noting that it is a key tool for supporting island residents, as it covers part of the cost of travel to and from the islands.
As he explained, contracts for unprofitable routes now have a four-year term, offering greater predictability to local communities and ferry companies.
At the same time, he noted that funding has increased from 150 million euros to 168 million euros annually, with a four-year timeframe.
Investments in Ports and Elefsina
Referring to port infrastructure, the minister pointed out that many island ports were designed based on data from previous decades and are now called upon to cope with the impacts of the climate crisis.
According to him, last year saw more than 60 days of strong southerly winds, a fact that significantly affects port facilities and coastlines.
Mr. Kikilias also referred to the plans for the port of Eleusis, noting that a tender will be announced in collaboration with TAIPED as soon as the required procedures and audits are completed.
As he said, the development of the port area can boost the growth potential of Western Attica, creating new investments and well-paying jobs.
Greece Must Help Shape Decisions on Shipping
Regarding the European policy on the decarbonization of shipping, the minister emphasized that Greece supports the green transition, but on realistic terms that will not place an excessive burden on the economy and citizens.
“Greece accounts for 61% of European shipping and 20% of global shipping. Decisions in Europe or at the IMO cannot be made without us. We will be key contributors to these decisions, for the benefit of our fellow citizens and our vital industry, which is shipping,” he stated.
At the same time, he warned that unrealistic compliance costs for the sector would be passed on to the real economy, increasing the cost of energy, products, and transportation.
“Our adversary is the problems facing society”
In the political portion of the interview, Mr. Kikilias argued that the government’s adversary is not the opposition parties but society’s problems.
“Our opponent is not PASOK, SYRIZA, or any other party, but the problems facing society. If we continue with the reforms and find solutions, society will give us credit for that,” he said.
On the issue of transparency, he made it clear that “we are not covering for anyone, nor do we intend to,” emphasizing that wherever irregularities exist, the justice system must fulfill its role.