Ferry prices in Greece face double-digit increase: impact on travellers, commuters and tourists.
Ferry prices in Greece face double-digit increase: impact on travellers, commuters and tourists
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Ferry prices in Greece are expected to rise by 15%. These price increases are the result of new EU environmental regulations aimed at reducing emissions in the Mediterranean. The increase affects both passenger tickets and vehicle transport and reflects the higher cost of controlling carbon and sulphur emissions.
Experts warn that companies will not be able to bear the additional financial burden. The rising cost of carbon emission allowances, more expensive low-emission fuels and investment in green technologies are putting a strain on the industry. Shipping companies state that they have little room for manoeuvre in terms of profits, which makes ticket price increases unavoidable.
The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and the Sulphide Low Emission Area (SECA) regulations already apply to routes serving Crete and the Adriatic Sea, with full implementation planned throughout the Aegean Sea by 2029. In addition, EU fuel regulations require more expensive biofuels, but their availability remains limited.
These measures are expected to increase operating costs by a total of 320 million euros by 2031, the IOBE reports. The ferry companies have already started to inform their partners. Minoan Lines, for example, has announced that freight rates for the Piraeus-Crete route will increase by 2.50 euros per running metre for trucks. Cabin prices on this route will also increase from 96 euros to 110.40 euros, while economy class tickets will rise from 37 euros to 42.50 euros.
Einstudie predicts that the reduced frequency of journeys and the higher prices could lead to a 10.4% drop in passenger volumes and around 16,000 jobs could be lost by 2031. The total economic damage could amount to more than 650 million euros in GDP losses.
Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Christos Stylianides recently highlighted the importance of modernising the fleet and announced that €265 million has been allocated for the construction of environmentally friendly vessels through public-private partnerships. Despite this progress, the modernisation of the fleet, estimated at 3 billion euros, remains a major challenge.
FAQ’s
How do I find the new prices for ferry journeys after the price increase?
There are several ways to check the current fares for ferry journeys. Passengers can visit the official websites of the ferry companies or contact local tourist information centres. Apps for booking ferry tickets also offer up-to-date price overviews. Compare fares on multiple platforms to find the best price.
How far in advance should I book a ferry to get the best price?
Booking a few months in advance can often be advantageous to secure low fares. Many ferry companies offer early booking discounts. It is recommended to book at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak travelling times.
Are there any discounts or savings available to avoid the increased ferry fares?
Many ferry companies offer special discounts or offers. These include
– Group discounts: larger groups can often benefit from discounts.
– Student and senior discounts: Certain age groups can take advantage of discounts.
– Loyalty programmes: Regular travellers can benefit from bonus programmes that offer discounts.
How does the price increase for ferries affect annual tickets or subscriptions?
The price increases for ferry journeys can have a direct impact on existing annual tickets or season tickets. Users should check their options, as it is possible that the procedure for using these cards will be adjusted. In some cases, there may also be changes to the fare structure.
How will the higher ferry fares affect tourism and the economy in the affected regions?
The increase in ferry fares can have a negative impact on tourism as it increases the cost of travelling for visitors. Fewer travellers could lead to a decrease in revenue in the region. The local economy, especially businesses that rely on tourists, could also be affected.
