The Greek government, under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, is intensifying efforts to support citizens and middle-class families through targeted economic measures. In this context, a new legislative amendment has been submitted, aiming to reduce port fees by 50%—a move expected to help contain ferry ticket prices.
Speaking in Parliament, Minister of Shipping and Island Policy Vassilis Kikilias announced the new amendment stating: “This is a targeted effort to offer relief to passengers, particularly as families prepare for the summer travel season.”
The initiative comes as the maritime sector across Europe prepares to shoulder additional financial burdens due to new EU regulations, effective from May 1, 2025. These rules introduce special levies and costs related to the transition toward greener fuels, significantly impacting the operational expenses of ferry companies.
The temporary reduction in port fees, which excludes cruise ships, is designed to ease financial pressures on ferry operators, enabling them to maintain stable pricing policies amid challenging economic conditions. The measure will be in effect for one year and is seen as a form of relief for both the companies and the traveling public.
To offset the revenue shortfall caused by the fee reduction, an equivalent amount will be allocated from the Green Fund. These funds will support environmental and sustainability projects, particularly targeting the ecological upgrade of ports, thus aligning economic support with broader green transition goals.
