Ferry passengers can expect a significant rise in ticket prices starting in 2025, as seafarers’ wages are set to increase by 7% over the next two years. The agreement, reached after a three-day strike by the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO), led to the suspension of the strike on Thursday. This wage hike, coupled with fuel surcharges due to new European emissions regulations, will contribute to the expected fare increase.
The strike, initially planned for two days, was extended to four days before an agreement was reached late on Thursday evening. Seafarers initially demanded a 12% raise but ultimately accepted a proposal from the Association of Passenger Shipping Companies. The proposal includes wage increases equal to inflation plus 2 percentage points for 2025, with a guaranteed minimum increase of 5%, and an inflation-matched increase for 2026.
Analysts note that seafarers’ wages have increased by 12% since 2010, compared to a 5% increase in the collective agreement of the General Confederation of Greek Labor. The annual crew costs for the Greek shipping industry amount to approximately 250 million euros, with each percentage point increase leading to a €2.5 million rise in expenses. Additionally, operating costs for coastal shipping will significantly rise due to changes in the European regulatory framework for fuel and carbon emissions. Fuel, oil, and pollution rights currently represent 46% of total operating costs, a figure expected to increase to 52% with the regulatory changes.
