Lavrio – Cesme Ferry Link a ‘Step to Friendship’ for Greece and Turkey

Photo Source: @Aegean Seaways Greece

The Greek port of Lavrio and the Turkish town of Cesme now have their own ferry service run three times a week by Turkey-based shipping company Aegean Seaways, which is represented in Greece by Piraeus-based maritime firm Stefmar Ltd.

Aegean Seaways handles the direct seven-hour journey on a 191-meter Ropax ferry constructed in 1989. The ship will run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday departing at 10pm from Cesme and arriving in Lavrio at 6am the next day, and then departing from Lavrio on the same day at 10pm and arriving in Cesme at 6am the following day.

Lavrio port

Greek Transport and Infrastructure Minister Christos Spirtzis described the  project as a “national work and a step towards friendship,” in Lavrio, during the inauguration of the route on Monday.

“We must move ahead with friendship and cooperation between our two peoples, always with respect to international law,” added Spirtzis of the connection, which is expected to contribute to establishing both Lavrio and Cesme as tourist and trade hubs in the region as well as slashing travel times between Europe and Turkey.

The ferry boat, which can transport passengers, cars, trucks and containers also offers recreation on board including a gym, kiddies corner, casino, restaurants and cafes.