Fears for ferry fare hikes as oil prices rise. What Greek minister says

Greek minister of maritime affairs and insular policy Vasilis Kikilias was asked about the possibility of ferry ticket increases this summer, as oil prices climb because of the war in the Middle East.

He noted that last year, after seven straight years of increases in ferry ticket prices amounting in total to 48%, the market had announced a 15% rise, but this never materialised.

That, he said, was because the government reduced port fees and worked with the market, while discounts of up to 32% were also offered.

For now, though, he said no one could say how long the war would last.

Even so, he acknowledged that pressure was already building, with the surge in the price of oil.

“We will see how soon there will be a de-escalation,” he said.

Kikilias added that the Greek government, as it had done in all crises from the pandemic onwards, would be