Kavala–Samothrace ferry connection remains off the government agenda
The issue was brought before the Greek Parliament following an urgent question submitted by Kavala MP Angeliki Delikari, after requests from the Kavala Chamber of Commerce and the Samothrace Tourism Accommodation Association. Local representatives argue that restoring the route would strengthen tourism and commercial activity in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
Responding in Parliament, Deputy Minister of Maritime and Island Policy Stefanos Gikas said the Kavala–Samothrace route cannot currently be announced or assigned, as it is not included in the existing framework for subsidized ferry routes or in the four-year international tender process already underway.
The ministry stated that establishing a new public service ferry route requires a detailed evaluation process based on transportation needs, social factors, development potential and the long-term viability of the service.
Authorities requested that the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace and local stakeholders submit comprehensive feasibility and sustainability studies so that the proposal can be reconsidered during the next planning phase for maritime transport services.
During the parliamentary discussion, a possible Kavala–Thassos–Samothrace route was also examined. However, officials pointed to several technical and operational challenges, including port infrastructure capacity, increased operating costs and limitations caused by heavy seasonal traffic at Thassos ports.
