According to the last notice of the open public international tender for the operation of routes for the period 2024-2025, the routes serving the Kythera and Antikythera for another year remain out of the “1” category, which would ensure upgraded services and increased security. Instead, the islands will continue to be served by ships of class “3”, which are characterised by lower speed and older construction standards.
This development comes at a contrary to the expectations of the residents and local stakeholders, who have been calling for years for a new generation of ships capable of meeting the demands of the islands, especially during the difficult winter months. The “3” category vessels provided for in the notice have already proved to be inadequate, as the frequent cancellations and delays are a common phenomenon, especially when the weather conditions in the Aegean become difficult.
The captains and residents of Kythera have repeatedly expressed their their dissatisfaction with the poor quality of ferry services, stressing that the lack of modern and safe ships has disastrous consequences not only for their everyday life, but also for the economic development and tourism.
Despite the constant calls and protests for better ships, the new notice confirms the continuation of the policy that treats Kythera and Antikythera as «forgotten» islands. The contract notice for category “3” vessels demonstrates the lack of will to substantially upgrade services, leaving these islands dependent on ships that do not meet their needs.
Notice of an open public international initial public invitation to tender
PEPEN: Calls for improvements at Diakofti port
The Panhellenic Union of Merchant Navy Captains (PEPEN) calls for improvements in 102 ports on islands and mainland Greece, including Kythera, through the Ports Exhibition 2024.
The report documents the difficulties encountered by skippers when approaching the port of Diakofti, despite the efforts of the Port Planning and Development Commission.
See below the categories of ships according to the competition
See the Kythera - Antikythera lines as mentioned in the tender:
