The launch of the ferry link between Greece and Cyprus creates great potential for the maritime tourism between the two countries, Shipping Deputy Minister of Cyprus, Vassilios Demetriades has said.

Speaking at a press conference at the Embassy of Cyprus in Athens, Friday, Demetriades said that the ferry link will start operating on 19 June. After 22 years, the shipping link between Greece and Cyprus will be an ideal opportunity for the maritime tourism of the two countries, he stressed.

He noted that Cyprus succeeded in activating the line and expressed hope that this project will be embraced by the citizens.

"Let us not forget that there are over 50,000 Greeks who want to visit their relatives living in Cyprus," he added.

The itineraries will be carried out by the Cyprus-flagged ropax type vessel M/V DALEELA, which has carrying capacity of 400 people and 100 vehicles, and is operated by Scandro Holding LTD.

The ferry link is seasonal and subsidized by the Cypriot government for the next three years with €16.5 million, following negotiation and approval by the EU.

The ship will set sail for the first time on Sunday June 19, at 12 noon from Limassol port and will dock at the port of Piraeus at 6 pm on Monday 20 June.