While Cyprus offers plenty of short day boat trips along its coastline, Cyprus ferry routes can also take you to several neighboring countries. In this article, I will discuss the existing ferry routes and what countries you can actually reach by sea. I will also cover the major ferry ports, how often these routes operate, how long the journeys take, and who they are suitable for.
Cyprus Ferry Routes at a Glance
Here is a short overview of the existing Cyprus ferry routes. The most established connections are between Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. Other routes, such as those to Lebanon, Israel, or Egypt, are more limited or irregular due to seasonal availability, recent changes, or the lack of regular passenger services.
Route | Ferry service / Typical availability |
Cyprus – Greece | Yes / Seasonal |
Cyprus – Turkey | Yes / Depending on port |
Cyprus – Lebanon | Limited / Seasonal |
Cyprus – Israel | Limited / Irregular |
Cyprus – Egypt | No regular passenger route |
Cyprus Ferry Ports
Cyprus has several ports used for international ferry connections, with Limassol, Larnaca, Girne (Kyrenia), and Famagusta serving different routes. The port you use depends on your destination and the ferry service available.
Explore the main ports and ferry connections between Cyprus and other Mediterranean destinations on the map below. You can also find accommodation options and available experiences at each destination using the filter icons.
Greece to Cyprus Ferry
During the summer season, from the end of May until the beginning of September, you can travel between Limassol in Cyprus and Piraeus in Greece. The journey takes approximately 30–31 hours. Scandro Holding, a Cyprus-based company is behind it.
The Cyprus–Greece ferry operates seasonally, with multiple sailings scheduled throughout June, July, and August 2026. Most departures from Limassol take place in the afternoon, while sailings from Piraeus generally depart in the early morning.
The exact sailing dates and departure times vary throughout the season, so check the latest timetable before booking.
Athens to Cyprus Ferry
Although this route is often searched as the Athens to Cyprus ferry, the ferry actually departs from Piraeus, the main port serving Athens. Piraeus is located about 10 km southwest of central Athens and can be reached by public transport, taxi, or car.
If you are travelling from Athens, allow enough time to reach Piraeus before the ferry departure. The port is outside the city centre, so factor the journey to the terminal into your travel plans.
Cyprus–Greece Ferry Schedule
The 2026 ferry service begins with a sailing from Limassol to Piraeus on May 29. Regular sailings continue throughout June, July, and August, with the final scheduled September sailing departing Piraeus on September 1.
Departures from Limassol are generally scheduled between early afternoon and midday, while return sailings from Piraeus usually depart during the early morning. The exact schedule varies throughout the season, with some weeks offering more sailings than others.
Because schedules can change, check the latest official timetable before booking your trip.
Cyprus–Greece Ferry Prices
Ferry fares depend on the passenger type, accommodation, and whether you are travelling with a vehicle. Several seating and cabin options are available, so the final price varies depending on your chosen option.
For 2026, an adult fare with first-class single occupancy starts at €40 one way, before additional taxes. Depending on the applicable taxes and accommodation, the total price can reach approximately €80.
Children under 3 years old can travel free of charge. The ferry is also pet-friendly, with a pet travelling in a cabin costing €50, with no additional taxes. For more information check the latest price-list.
Travelling to Cyprus by Ferry with a Vehicle
The Greece–Cyprus ferry also accepts vehicles, making it a practical option for travellers planning a road trip around Cyprus. Cars up to 5 metres cost €60 for a single journey, plus applicable taxes.
Other permitted vehicles include motorcycles and motorhomes, while bicycles can be transported free of charge.
The ferry departs from Limassol Cruise Terminal. You can reach the terminal by car, taxi, local buses, or Intercity buses connecting Limassol with other towns in Cyprus. The nearest local bus stop is New Port, served by bus 30.
Whether you arrive in Cyprus by ferry or are planning to explore the island by car, renting a vehicle can make getting around more convenient and give you greater flexibility during your trip.
Turkey to Cyprus Ferry
Cyprus has several ferry connections with Turkey, with services operating between ports in Northern Cyprus and southern Turkey. The main passenger ports in Cyprus are Girne (Kyrenia) and Famagusta, while the main Turkish ports serving these routes are Taşucu and Anamur.
The Girne–Taşucu and Girne–Anamur routes are operated by Akgünler Denizcilik, which runs different types of passenger ferries, fast ferries, and vehicle-carrying vessels. The Famagusta–Mersin connection currently operates as a cargo/truck ferry rather than a regular passenger service.
Antalya to Cyprus Ferry
There is currently no direct passenger ferry from Antalya to Cyprus. If you want to travel from Antalya by sea, one option is to take the ferry from Girne to Anamur and continue your journey through Turkey by car or public transport.
Anamur is a small coastal town in Mersin Province, but it is worth exploring if you have time before continuing your journey. Its highlights include Mamure Castle, one of the best-preserved castles on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, and the ancient city of Anemurium, known for its Roman ruins and mosaics.
Istanbul to Cyprus Ferry
There is also no direct passenger ferry from Istanbul to Cyprus. Instead, you can travel by ferry to Taşucu or Anamur and continue north by road.
Anamur is closer to Antalya, while Taşucu is closer to the city of Silifke. If you are travelling by car, the journey from the ferry port can be combined with a road trip along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.
Taşucu itself is a small harbour town where you can spend some time by the marina, visit the small Amphora Museum, or explore the nearby Göksu Delta and beaches.
Girne to Anamur or Taşucu
Akgünler Denizcilik operates ferry services between Girne and the Turkish ports of Anamur and Taşucu. The company operates several vessels, including fast sea buses, passenger ferries, vehicle-carrying vessels, and cargo ships. Check-in opens 2 hours before departure.
The exact sailing days and departure times vary, so check the latest timetable before booking.
The Girne–Taşucu crossing is available on both fast ferries and slower conventional ferries. The fast ferry takes approximately 2.5 hours, while the slower service takes around 5 hours. Depending on the vessel and sailing, departure times can vary considerably. Current schedules show several departures throughout the week.
Fares start at approximately €43 for one adult, although prices depend on the type of vessel and ticket. Pets and bicycles can also be transported, while private cabins are available for an additional fee.
The Girne–Anamur ferry is a faster connection, taking approximately 2 hours. However, it does not operate every day, so this route requires more planning. Current schedules include departures on selected days such as Friday, Sunday, and Monday, although operating days can change.
Adult tickets start at approximately €39 one way, depending on the sailing and fare conditions.
For the latest departure dates, times, and ticket prices, check the official Akgünler Denizcilik timetable before travelling.
Taking a Car on the Ferry
If you are travelling around Turkey or Cyprus by car, you can also take your vehicle aboard selected Taşucu–Girne ferries. Vehicle height limits depend on the vessel, with some ships accepting vehicles up to 2.30 metres and others having different restrictions.
Taking a car can be useful for longer stays or road trips, especially if you plan to explore more remote parts of each country. However, for a short holiday, compare the total cost of the vehicle ticket, fuel, insurance and ferry crossings with renting a car after arrival.
Keep in mind that vehicle crossings require the correct travel and vehicle documents. Requirements can differ depending on your citizenship and residency status, so check the latest rules before travelling.
Lebanon to Cyprus Ferry
A new passenger ferry connection between Lebanon and Cyprus was announced for 2026, linking Jounieh in Lebanon with Larnaca in Cyprus. The service is operated by Lebanese shipping company Abou Merhi Agency through Cedar Waves and is planned to connect the two countries in approximately four hours.
The route was initially scheduled to launch on 9 June 2026, with departures from Jounieh planned several times a week. However, Cedar Waves later announced that the launch would be temporarily postponed while the company completed additional regulatory and coordination procedures required for passenger sea transport to Cyprus.
The route is therefore worth watching if you are planning to travel between Lebanon and Cyprus, but check the latest announcement from Cedar Waves before booking, as the operating dates may change.
Jounieh to Larnaca Ferry
The planned ferry route connects Jounieh Port on the Lebanese coast with Larnaca Port in Cyprus. The crossing is expected to take approximately four hours, making it considerably longer than flying but offering a direct sea connection between the two countries.
The announced schedule included departures from Jounieh on Wednesdays and Sundays at 9:00 AM and Fridays at 10:00 AM. However, these times relate to the originally announced schedule and should not be treated as current until the service officially resumes.
Lebanon–Cyprus Ferry Prices
The originally announced one-way fares to Larnaca started at approximately €88 for Standard, with higher-priced options of around €144 for Plus and €163 for Lounge. These fares may change when the service resumes, so check the current Cedar Waves booking platform before purchasing a ticket.
The ferry offers different seating areas, including standard seating on the Main Deck and more spacious seating and lounge options on the Upper Deck.
What Is the Cedar Waves Ferry Like?
The Cedar Waves vessel has a capacity of approximately 350 passengers and offers several amenities for the four-hour crossing. Passengers can use the onboard café and dining area, while Upper Deck passengers have access to more spacious reclining seats and outdoor areas.
The ferry also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks and meals for purchase, a kids’ activity kit, and concierge services. Pets are allowed on board for an additional fee, with a limited number of pet-friendly cabins available.
Passengers travelling with pets must notify the company when booking and provide the required pet passport and veterinary health documentation.
Luggage and Travel Requirements
Passengers should arrive at the port at least one hour before departure. Checked baggage is subject to a 30 kg limit, while hand luggage is limited to 10 kg according to the current Cedar Waves guidelines.
All passengers must present valid travel documents at check-in, and baggage and passengers may be subject to security screening. Visa and entry requirements depend on your nationality and destination, so check the latest immigration requirements before travelling.
Is the Lebanon–Cyprus Ferry Worth Considering?
Once operational, the Jounieh–Larnaca ferry could provide an interesting alternative to flying, particularly for travellers who prefer travelling by sea, want more luggage flexibility, or simply want to experience a different way of crossing the Eastern Mediterranean.
The approximately four-hour journey is much longer than a direct flight, but the ferry offers a more relaxed travel experience and the possibility of enjoying the Mediterranean views along the way. Because the route is new and its launch has been postponed, however, travellers should check the latest operating status before making travel plans.
Israel to Cyprus Ferry
There is currently no regular passenger ferry service between Israel and Cyprus. Travellers looking for a sea connection between the two countries may occasionally find private yacht charters or cruise services, but these should not be confused with a scheduled ferry route.
The situation can change depending on regional circumstances, so travellers should check for the latest announcements before planning a sea journey between Cyprus and Israel.
There have been discussions about restoring a passenger ferry connection between Israel and Cyprus, but no regular scheduled service is currently available.
Cyprus Ferry to Egypt
There is currently no regular passenger ferry between Cyprus and Egypt.
Cyprus and Egypt were previously connected by ferry services, including routes operated by Salamis Lines. Historical schedules show sailings connecting Limassol and Port Said, sometimes as part of longer routes between Greece, Cyprus and Egypt.
However, these services are no longer operating. The historical Salamis Lines material itself states that the Greece–Cyprus–Egypt services have been suspended until further notice.
At present, travellers should not expect a scheduled passenger ferry from Egyptian ports such as Port Said or Alexandria to Cyprus. If you want to travel between Egypt and Cyprus, flying is currently the practical option.
Is Ferry Better Than Flight?
Whether a ferry is better than flying depends mainly on your route, travel time and whether you are bringing a vehicle. Ferries can be a more scenic and flexible option, especially for longer trips or road trips. Flying is usually faster and more convenient for short journeys.
Another option is to reach Cyprus by cruise ship. Unlike regular ferries, cruises are primarily designed as holidays at sea rather than point-to-point transportation. They can be an interesting way to combine Cyprus with other Mediterranean destinations.
Ultimately, the best option depends on your travel plans, budget and how much time you have. For some travellers, the ferry is not simply an alternative to flying, but a different way to experience the Mediterranean.
Sources
- Cyprus Ferry Route Map — https://ferryroutes.com/cyprus/
- How to Get to Cyprus by Ferry — https://pazarkibris.com/blog/how-to-get-to-cyprus-by-ferry/
- Scandro Holding — https://scandroholding.com/
- Akgünler Denizcilik — https://www.akgunlerdenizcilik.com/
- Akgunler Denizcilik — https://www.directferries.com/akgunler_denizcilik.htm
- Ferry to North Cyprus from Türkiye — https://www.kiprarent.com/en/guide/ferry-to-north-cyprus-from-turkiye/
- Cedar Waves — https://www.cedarwaves.com/
- Salamis Lines — https://www.ferries.gr/salamis/
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