After years of closure, the Jounieh Port is preparing to reopen its doors, positioning itself as a potential economic lifeline for the state and a key player in reviving the country’s presence on the regional tourism map.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has pledged full support for the logistical and regulatory operations required to relaunch the port. This includes coordination with Lebanese Customs, General Security, and other relevant agencies to ensure all necessary infrastructure and security requirements are in place. Plans for the upgraded marina include a duty-free shopping area and a dedicated VIP lounge.

According to initial information, the cost of a standard-class travel ticket via the Jounieh Port will be capped at $250. Operations will begin with three weekly trips to Larnaca, Cyprus, aboard a passenger vessel capable of accommodating approximately 200 people. Each voyage is expected to take between four and five hours.

While the upcoming launch has generated excitement, it is not the first time such maritime routes have been proposed.

Back in 2009, then-Minister of Public Works and Transport Ghazi Aridi inaugurated the first voyage from Jounieh’s shores to Cyprus, promising to expand the marina into a fully operational port capable of welcoming large cruise ships traveling the Mediterranean, with capacities of up to 2,000 tourists. The projected investment at the time was estimated at $35 million. However, no substantial upgrades were carried out until 2016, when a new development plan was announced with a budget of $70 million.

That plan included the construction of a fourth basin, anchored by a 3-kilometer breakwater designed to accommodate three “mega cruise” ships carrying up to 5,000 passengers. Yet, over a three-year period, only 15 billion Lebanese pounds were allocated by the Ministry of Public Works, and the project was eventually shelved due to Lebanon’s deepening economic crisis.

Now, work has resumed in earnest, with real progress being made toward the port’s reopening.

Speaking to Kataeb.org, Pierre Akel, Director General of Supply Chain at INDEVCO and President of the International Maritime Academy, confirmed that reconstruction efforts are underway in accordance with international standards. He said the marina is expected to be ready within 10 to 15 days, with the first voyages scheduled to launch on July 23 as part of a small cruise program.

Asked whether the marina can receive large cruise ships, Akel explained that the port’s current water depth is only four meters, rendering it incapable of accommodating such vessels. However, he added that future phases of the project will include transporting passengers from large ships anchored in the bay to the marina via smaller shuttle boats, similar to procedures followed in other countries.

Akel said the project is likely to attract a large number of tourists, as it offers a new and unique travel experience within Lebanon. He also emphasized that traveling by sea could save both time and money compared to air travel, while allowing passengers to avoid the growing congestion at Beirut’s international airport.

The reopening is also expected to generate significant employment opportunities. Akel estimated that the project could benefit up to 70% of Lebanese workers involved in tourism, maritime transport, hospitality, and related services.

In response to public concerns, Akel confirmed that the designated fishing basin within the marina will remain intact. He also revealed that efforts are currently underway to secure support from the European Union to assist in the development and operationalization of the port.