Astypalaia Faces Ferry Connectivity Crisis as Calls Grow for Immediate Government Action
Dodecanese MP Manos Konsolas has called on Greece’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy to urgently restore reliable ferry connections between Astypalaia and the other islands of the Dodecanese, highlighting the issue through a parliamentary intervention.
According to the MP, the suspension of services operated under a public service contract has left a significant transportation gap, affecting the island’s connectivity with neighboring islands. He also questioned the effectiveness of a recently announced tender covering only a 23-day period, from June 15 to July 8, 2026, arguing that such a short-term contract is unlikely to attract shipping companies.
Konsolas stressed that a longer-term contract, lasting at least one year, would provide a more realistic and sustainable solution for ensuring uninterrupted maritime links for residents and businesses.
To address increased demand during the tourism season, he further proposed the introduction of a public service contract for a high-speed vessel operating two weekly round trips between Kos and Astypalaia from June 15 to October 15. The measure, he said, would strengthen inter-island connectivity and support both local communities and visitors.
