A scheduled ferry service between Lebanon and Cyprus is set to begin operations on 9 June 2026, marking the first regular international passenger sea link from Lebanon in decades. Operated by the Lebanese shipping firm Abou Merhi Agency under the Cedar Waves brand, the route will connect the port of Jounieh, north of Beirut, with Larnaca in Cyprus in just under four hours.
The journey time of approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes is significantly faster than earlier projections and positions the service as a practical alternative to air travel for passengers crossing the Eastern Mediterranean. Departures from Lebanon to Cyprus are scheduled for every Wednesday and Sunday at 09:00 local time, as well as every Friday at 10:00, with arrivals in Larnaca shortly before 13:00.
Regional Network and Competitive Pricing
Beyond the core Cyprus link, Cedar Waves will also operate routes to Latakia in Syria and Mersin in Turkey, effectively creating a maritime transport hub for the region. This expansion reflects growing demand for affordable and flexible travel options in a part of the Mediterranean often constrained by limited air connections and geopolitical tensions.
Ticket prices have been set notably lower than initial estimates. One-way fares to Larnaca start at approximately €88 for standard seating, €144 for the Plus class, and €163 for the Lounge. By comparison, flights between Beirut and Larnaca during peak summer months typically range from €160 to €235 one way. The ferry thus offers a cost-effective alternative, even though the crossing takes about four hours versus a 30-minute flight.
Fares to Turkey range from roughly €153 to €255, while tickets to Syria cost between €125 and €139, depending on the travel date. These prices undercut earlier projections of €230 to €320 for the Cyprus route, making the service competitive for budget-conscious travellers, families, and those seeking greater luggage allowance or a more scenic journey across the Mediterranean.
The launch comes at a time when Cyprus is navigating its own political landscape, with recent parliamentary elections showing a tight race between the centre-right DISY and the left-wing AKEL, while the far-right ELAM has risen to third place. The new ferry link could also have implications for regional mobility, especially given ongoing instability in southern Lebanon and the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
For Lebanon, the service represents a modest but tangible step toward normalising international travel and trade, after years of economic crisis and political turmoil. The company has opened its online booking platform, allowing passengers to reserve tickets directly through the Cedar Waves website.
While the ferry will not replace air travel for time-sensitive journeys, its affordability and flexibility are expected to attract a steady stream of passengers, particularly during the summer season. The service also offers a symbolic connection between Cyprus and the Levant, reinforcing ties that have historically been shaped by maritime routes.
