Thalassa Festival returns to Limassol, celebrating blue economy

The fourth annual Thalassa Festival will take place in Limassol’s multifunctional seaside park (Molos) on October 19, showcasing entertainment and insights into the blue economy’s impact on Cyprus, backed by local institutions and maritime experts.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis and Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis encouraged the public to attend the event, which has become a cherished fixture in Cyprus’s cultural calendar.

Speaking at an event held at the Limassol municipality, Hadjimanolis expressed gratitude to the 43 institutions and organisations supporting the festival, each committed to raising awareness on the critical role of shipping, ports, and the blue economy in Cyprus.

“A great effort has been made to involve all academic institutions, including maritime academies, that offer maritime and shipping curricula in Cyprus,” she said, “in order to properly inform our young people about the prospects of maritime and shipping professions and the blue economy”.

She further extended thanks to the Ministry of Education for promoting the festival in all schools, adding that she was delighted that the Greek minister of shipping, Christos Stylianides, will inaugurate the event at noon.  

Stylianides’ participation, she explained, signifies the shared commitment of Cyprus and Greece to maritime education under their intergovernmental cooperation. 

Meanwhile, mayor Armeftis emphasised the festival’s role in showcasing the sea’s central importance to Limassol.  

“It is not only the geographical border of our city,” he remarked, “but it is the driving force of our economy and the source of inspiration for many generations.”  

He added that the event aims to offer young people insights into the numerous career opportunities in shipping and the blue economy, allowing them to explore paths in maritime, technology, and marine research sectors.

The festival will feature an array of activities. A symbolic race dedicated to sailors, vessel demonstrations by the Navy, the Port and Maritime Police, and the Department of Fisheries, and appearances by Vasiliko Terminal and P&O Maritime Logistics tugs.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy a swim to the ancient port of Amathus, art exhibitions, children’s activities, experiential workshops, free coastal cruises, and sea sports demonstrations. 

The festival’s highlight will be an evening concert at 8 pm by renowned Greek singer-songwriter Kostis Maraveyas, held at the square of Limassol’s old port.