The importance of expanding Pier 6 at the Thessaloniki Port Authority (OLTH) for the city’s development trajectory and its standing in international maritime transport was underscored by Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Island Policy, in an interview with the newspaper Thessaloniki. According to Kikilias, the Pier 6 project represents a strategic investment—not only for OLTH but for Thessaloniki as a whole—set to upgrade the port’s capacity to accommodate larger vessels, handle increased cargo volumes, and support more complex supply chains.
A €200 Million Investment
The €200 million investment includes extending Pier 6 by over 500 metres and extensive dredging works—enabling larger cruise and cargo ships to berth safely at Thessaloniki’s port. The minister noted that approximately 20,000 jobs are expected to be created and sustained during construction, significantly broadening the investment’s economic benefits beyond the port zone into the wider local economy.
Strengthening Thessaloniki’s Role as a Key Maritime Gateway
Kikilias stressed that fully unlocking the port’s potential also requires upgrading road and rail connections—complementary infrastructure that enhances the efficiency of port operations. A core objective of the Ministry is to reinforce Thessaloniki’s position as the principal maritime gateway for Northern Greece and Southeastern Europe.
Growth Opportunities for the Cruise Sector
The minister highlighted Thessaloniki’s growing prominence in the cruise industry. Rising arrivals of high-end cruise ships confirm the city’s emerging appeal as a destination. Within just a few years, Thessaloniki has developed the capability to serve as a home port, and conditions now allow for the simultaneous berthing of two cruise vessels. The next challenge, he said, lies in further developing this sector through close collaboration between OLTH, the Thessaloniki Municipality, the Region of Central Macedonia, tourism stakeholders, and international cruise lines.
Thessaloniki–Sporades Ferry Link
Regarding the ferry connection between Thessaloniki and the Sporades islands, Kikilias emphasized its dual significance—both tourist and social—as it links Northern Greece with key island destinations and supports local economies. The Ministry plans to assess passenger traffic volumes, vessel occupancy rates, transportation needs, and available funding options to determine whether the seasonal route’s operational period should be extended.