The first ferry trip between Cyprus and Greece in 21 years was hailed as “very positive” by deputy shipping minister Vassilis Demetriades on Monday.
Motorcyclists, pensioners, nervous flyers and students are just some of the 173 people who took the maiden voyage, with the boat scheduled to arrive at Piraeus at 6pm after the 30-hour trip.
The deputy minister said that the first impressions have been overwhelmingly positive, adding that there was live entertainment onboard, along with amenities such as cafés and restaurants.
He emphasised that any issues which may arise, as are expected during such a project, will be worked out and improved.
“I’m not only on this trip just because it’s the first and historic, but also so that I can see firsthand any issues which may occur, we’re also experiencing this trip and speaking with the other passengers,” he told Alphanews on Monday, onboard the Daleela.
He further added that the government will aim to resolve any issues by consulting the managing company but stated that so far nothing major has been identified.
Some passengers, however, were surprised to learn that there is no Wi-Fi onboard.
The deputy minister addressed those concerns by explaining that such a feature would be very expensive for the company to provide but that it is something which can be looked at in the future, if it is indeed an issue.
“This is a point but not something which is linked to the specific company, it’s a factor for all boats,” Demetriades said.
He reminded the public that 5G remains an option.
Asked as to who his fellow travellers are, and why they chose the ferry, Demetriades said that he has spoken to motorcyclists who have eagerly been awaiting the ferry for years.
Elsewhere, he spoke to people who last travelled on the ferry link over two decades ago and wished to relive the experience.
Demetriades also explained how some students have opted for the boat as it is easier for them to transport more personal items and luggage than by plane, and at a cheaper cost. Naturally, there were some nervous flyers amongst the passengers, too.
The first trip ferried 173 people, including Demetriades, tourism minister Savvas Perdios, Limassol Mayor Nicos Nicolaides, some MPs, journalists, and members of the team that worked on the project.
The last ferry voyage between Greece and Cyprus took place on October 8, 2001 with the ship Salamis.
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs Cyprus Mail
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or Cyprus Mail
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