Filenews 18 September 2022 - by Socrates Ioakim
Much better than initial expectations, this year's itinerary of the M/V Daleela passenger ferry, which was carrying out the EU-subsidized Cyprus-Greece passenger connection, closed on Friday, September 16th.
Specifically, according to data obtained by the column from competent sources, the passenger ferry carried a total of 7,900 passengers, with initial expectations being between 4,500-5,000 passengers. In relation to occupancy, as pointed out to us in the cabins it was almost at 100%, in contrast to the air seats, in which there were several seats vacant. This may lead the contractor Scandro Holdings next year to charter a larger ship, which will have more cabins available. In relation to cars and motorcycles, we were told that in total in the 44 trips that took place this year, about 1,500 cars and 150 motorcycles were transported.
Compared to next year, the trips will be clearly more, as the passenger connection is expected to start in May 2023 and be completed in October of the same year. It is not excluded, however, that Israel will also be included in the route, with the aim of increasing both the profitability and the viability of the project.
Finally, regarding the possibility of an increase in the price of tickets next year, however, it has been pointed out to us that it is premature to say this, for which the Government will take its decisions. In October, however, a press conference is expected to present the report of the first year and to answer all questions in relation to the planning of the next period.
