Plans for a Paphos harbour expansion could pave the way for larger cruise ships to call at the coastal city, while also strengthening protection for the Medieval Castle and upgrading port facilities.
The proposals were discussed during a working meeting between Paphos Municipality and the Cyprus Ports Authority as part of their ongoing cooperation on the future development of Paphos Harbour.
Cruise ship facilities under consideration
According to the municipality, discussions focused on extending the harbour entrance and lengthening the breakwater behind the Medieval Castle to provide greater protection for both the historic monument and the port’s infrastructure.
“The Medieval Castle is one of Paphos’ most important landmarks and we have a duty to protect it,” the municipality said.
As part of the long-term vision for the Paphos harbour expansion, officials also discussed constructing a pier approximately 40 to 50 metres long that could accommodate larger cruise ships.
The municipality said such a project would significantly strengthen Paphos’ tourism offering while creating new opportunities for the local economy and future development.
Improving harbour services
The meeting also examined plans to establish a fuel supply point within the harbour to serve both commercial and private vessels safely and efficiently.
Environmental protection was another key topic, with discussions focusing on upgrading the collection and disposal system for waste generated by boats to help safeguard the marine environment and maintain the cleanliness of the harbour.
Waterfront upgrades
Officials also discussed plans for a new continuous canopy in front of the harbour’s shops, designed to match the architecture and appearance of the existing structures along the waterfront.
The future of the three existing shade structures on the promenade was also reviewed. The municipality noted that the structures are fully licensed and that any proposal to remove them would first require approval by the Municipal Council before any action could be taken.
Long-term vision
The municipality said its cooperation with the Cyprus Ports Authority would continue with the shared goal of delivering a modern, safe and efficient harbour.
It added that the Paphos harbour expansion aims to protect the city’s cultural heritage, strengthen its tourism product and create new development opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
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