A new public service contract signed at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy on Friday 9 January 2026 strengthens ferry services for Leros, Patmos and the surrounding smaller islands.
Shipping Minister Vasilis Kikilias and Maria Manousi, legal representative of the shipping company Axiokersa NE, signed the agreement for the Kalymnos–Leros–Lipsi–Patmos–Arki–Agathonisi–Pythagoreio, Samos route and its return journey, operated by the passenger and vehicle ferry Saonisos.
The contract provides for three services a week throughout the operating period. An additional weekly service will run during the summer, from 1 June to 30 August 2026, strengthening connections for Leros and Patmos at the height of the tourist season. The vessel must also call at Farmakonisi twice a month.
The subsidy is €31,409.65 per complete service, excluding VAT. The agreement will remain in force until the tender process is completed and a long-term contract is signed for the route. Its total budgeted value is €4.36 million, excluding VAT, funded through the Public Investment Programme.
The agreement secures a stable, reliable ferry connection between Leros, neighbouring islands and Samos. It supports residents' and visitors' everyday travel, the local economy and cohesion between the islands.
This essential route for Leros and the surrounding islands, alongside the Dodekanisos Seaways catamarans operated by the Spanos company, will provide regular services to meet their continuing transport needs.
