Greek government allocates €60 million to support ferry operators amid fuel price surge

The Greek Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy announced a €60 million liquidity package for the domestic ferry sector as Marine Gas Oil (MGO) prices rise sharply, raising operating costs for operators. The support includes a new compensation mechanism that will reimburse ferry companies for revenue losses caused by mandatory social fare discounts for groups such as children under five, seniors, students, people with disabilities and war pensioners. The scheme, set to start in 2026, will pay out in stages after verification of ticket data through the ministry’s electronic systems. While fuel costs continue to dominate operating expenses, the government aims to keep passenger fares stable and prevent the full energy burden from being passed on to travelers.

The measure follows ongoing monitoring of international fuel markets and existing risk‑hedging agreements that secure fuel supplies at pre‑agreed prices. By providing the additional liquidity and compensation, the state seeks to sustain the viability of ferry services that are essential for island connectivity during the high‑traffic summer season.