Shipping careers highlighted at Limassol’s fifth Thalassa festival

Limassol, Cyprus. Young people can find career opportunities both on land and at sea in shipping, Deputy Shipping Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said during the fifth Thalassa festival. The event transformed the Molos waterfront into an exhibition of maritime activities.

Careers across the maritime sector

Hadjimanolis said the festival sought to connect the public with those working in shipping and the activities they undertake, placing particular emphasis on younger generations.

She explained that Thalassa grew from an idea to help people develop a closer connection with the sea, learn about it, experience it and deepen their affection for it, while passing that bond to future generations. She described the sea as integral to Cyprus’s identity and history, as well as its economy and future.

President Nikos Christodoulides said employment in shipping went beyond ships and their crews. He highlighted opportunities for scientists, engineers, economists and lawyers, alongside roles at ports, maritime businesses, research centres and universities.

Coast Guard plans and shipping growth

Christodoulides said Cabinet approval for a Coast Guard Unit would come before the year ended. Operations were expected to start in 2027.

He also reported that Cyprus’s shipping register had expanded by approximately 27 per cent during the preceding three years. Over that period, government income from ship management increased by roughly 19 to 20 per cent, he said.

Exhibitions and activities on the seafront

Christodoulides inaugurated the festival, which took place on Saturday, October 10, between 9am and 7pm. Visitors had access to interactive exhibits and catamaran excursions at no charge.

Participation exceeded 30 organisations from the private and public sectors. Those represented included shipping businesses, government services, academic institutions and industry associations.

Exhibits addressed ports and shipping, research and education, technology, protection of the environment and contributions to society.