Chios tourism groups urge activation of Volos–Chios ferry route

Tourism associations in Chios are urging the North Aegean Regional Governor to take immediate action to ensure the establishment of a new ferry route connecting Volos, Skiathos, Mytilene, and Chios for the upcoming tourist seasons.

Despite a joint financial commitment of 2 million euros from the North Aegean and Thessaly regions—with each contributing 1 million euros—the connection failed to operate during the 2026 summer season. Local business groups, including hotel, catering, and car rental associations, attribute this failure to bureaucratic delays within the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy.

The proposed route is intended to create a new tourism corridor, allowing visitors from Central and Northern Greece to reach Chios and Lesvos via the port of Volos. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent interventions to secure stable schedules and clear planning to prevent further delays and ensure the route is operational for 2027.