A large ferry carrying 250 vehicles will cost around EUR 65 million, while a smaller 75-vehicle vessel will cost EUR 45 million.
The current three double-ended ferries GAUDOS, MALITA, and TA PINU, built 2000 to 2003, will be upgraded over six years at a cost of EUR 20 million. The controversial charter of the NIKOLAOS, a 1987 Greek (Superflex) doubled-ended ferry plagued by mechanical issues and costing EUR 14,000 per day, will be terminated.
The initiative follows a 2023 efficiency study and aims to match capacity with demand while improving long-term reliability. Pressure peaked after recent holiday disruptions left thousands stranded, with critics blaming insufficient capacity and poor maintenance.
© Shippax