Cypriot Taxpayers Might Subsidize Boat Owners at Larnaca Marina
The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works has announced plans to study the implementation of a subsidy system for specific categories of 'vulnerable' boat owners. This announcement comes in response to a request from the Association of Docked Boat Owners for the immediate reinstatement of the state docking fees at Larnaca Marina.
In its statement, the Ministry highlighted that the Association’s request pertains to restoring the docking fees to levels set in 2009, which remained in effect until 2022. During that year, the management of Larnaca Marina transitioned to Kition Ocean Holdings Ltd. The Ministry emphasized that, as previously stated in a September press release, the current fees at Larnaca Marina—established by the former operator—are the lowest compared to other commercial marinas in Cyprus, offering charges reduced by 60%.
Upon the termination of the previous contract, the Ministry decided to maintain these reduced fees during the transitional period until the process of setting fees in accordance with the law is completed. The Ministry further clarified that it is considering a subsidy system for 'vulnerable' boat owners. These subsidies, it stated, would be "based on transparent and clearly defined criteria, ensuring support for those who truly need it."
The Ministry also firmly stated that there will be no blanket subsidies, particularly for high-value boat owners. "Our policy focuses on fair and targeted support, avoiding unnecessary strain on public finances," the statement read. The Ministry remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders, aiming to find fair and sustainable solutions for managing marine infrastructure.