Following a series of logistical delays, a highly anticipated passenger ferry service is officially launching this June, transforming how travelers navigate the eastern Mediterranean.
Operated by Cedar Waves—a subsidiary of Lebanon’s established Abou Merhi Group—the service reintroduces regular maritime passenger travel to the region after a multi-decade hiatus. Far from just a simple shuttle service, the route turns Jounieh Port into a bustling regional transit point, linking Lebanon not just to Cyprus, but to key ports in Turkey and Syria as well.
Here is everything you need to know about the new service, from transit times to ticket costs.
Shorter Crossings and Expanded Horizons
Early estimates for the sea journey between Cyprus and Lebanon predicted a five-hour voyage. However, the vessel’s final scheduling cuts that time down significantly:
- The Larnaca Connection: The direct crossing between Jounieh Port and Larnaca Port takes exactly 3 hours and 59 minutes.
- The Wider Network: Beyond Cyprus, the ship connects to Mersin, Turkey (a trip ranging from 5.5 to 12 hours depending on stops) and Latakia, Syria.
Weekly Sailing Schedule
The Jounieh-to-Larnaca timetable is structured around weekend getaways and summer traffic. Note: All times are listed in Beirut local time.
- Wednesdays & Sundays: Departs Jounieh at 9:00 AM, arriving in Larnaca at 12:59 PM.
- Fridays: Departs Jounieh at 10:00 AM, arriving in Larnaca at 1:59 PM.
Ticket Pricing: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
One of the most welcome surprises of the official launch is the pricing structure. Initial industry rumors hinted at one-way fares spiking up to $350. Instead, the baseline prices comfortably undercut standard airfares.
Jounieh to Larnaca (One-Way Fares)
- Standard Tier: $95
- Plus Tier: $155
- Lounge Tier: $175
Regional Alternatives
- To Latakia: $135 – $150 (Operating Sundays and Wednesdays)
- To Mersin: $165 – $275 (Operating Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
Sea vs. Air: How Does It Stack Up?
With standard one-way flights between Beirut and Larnaca regularly commanding between $180 and $250 during peak travel windows, the $95 standard ferry ticket is a highly competitive alternative.
The choice ultimately hinges on travel style. While a commercial flight takes a mere 30 minutes, it comes with airport crowds, strict baggage limits, and pre-flight security lines. The four-hour ferry trip offers a more relaxed, scenic Mediterranean cruise experience—and allows travelers to bypass typical airport stress.
Important Travel Note: Switching to sea travel does not change immigration laws. Lebanese passport holders are still required to obtain a valid Cypriot or Schengen visa prior to departure. Visas must be processed through the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Beirut.
How to Book
The booking portal is fully live for the 2026 summer season. Passengers can view real-time availability, explore cabin upgrades, and purchase tickets directly via the official website at cedarwaves.com.
