Kerkyra Lines owner A. Koulouris issued a statement on Thursday afternoon, 2 October 2025, pushing back against what he describes as misinformation about the Corfu-Antipaxoi-Paxoi route. The message, published by Corfu TV News, answers criticism from the Mayor of Paxoi and mentions the planned deployment of the vessel “KALYPSO” on the Corfu-Paxoi line.
What does the company claim and why now?
According to the statement, the Mayor accused the operator of ignoring the local community. Kerkyra Lines replies that it has supported island links for years, pointing to service with a passenger/vehicle ferry on the Igoumenitsa-Paxoi route and a high-speed craft on Corfu-Paxoi. The company says this step is both a matter of principle and business, meant to protect the public interest and keep competition fair.
- The vessel earmarked for the line is KALYPSO, which the company says can carry 79 passengers.
- Kerkyra Lines states KALYPSO is allowed to sail in conditions up to 6 Beaufort.
- By contrast, the company says the tender specified a vessel carrying only 50 passengers and not allowed to sail at 6 Beaufort.
What changed in the tender?
The statement asks the Mayor of Paxoi, Mr Vlahopoulos, and the Deputy Regional Governor, Mr Argyros, to explain who stepped in to alter the tender terms. Kerkyra Lines alleges the changes let an 18-metre vessel priced at about €500,000, with estimated operating expenses of €400,000, compete while receiving a public subsidy of €2.4 million. These figures are presented as the company’s claims and have not been independently verified.
How did local authorities respond?
At the time of publication, the source material shows no official response from the Mayor of Paxoi or regional authorities. We’ll update if a formal statement appears.
What does this mean for the route?
If this goes ahead as described, a vessel with higher capacity and clearance to sail in stronger winds could make trips more reliable for travelers between Corfu and Paxoi, especially during windy spells in the Ionian Sea. Will it happen? That hinges on regulatory approvals, the final tender terms, and coordination with local stakeholders.
Where and when did this unfold?
The statement circulated in Corfu yesterday afternoon and directly concerns ferry services linking Corfu with Paxoi and Antipaxoi. The operator says it stepped in to safeguard the public interest and better match transport needs on the line.
What should readers watch next?
Watch for any official reply from the municipal and regional officials named, confirmation of KALYPSO’s deployment on the Corfu-Paxoi line, and the publication of the final tender documentation. Until then, the points above reflect the company’s position and need verification.
What do residents think?
The source material includes no formal public consultation alongside the statement. A balanced look at passenger demand and service quality will require data from competent authorities and ferry operators.
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