Pakistan is all set to launch its international ferry service to Iran this month. It is marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity and maritime travel. According to officials, the Pakistan International Ferry Service to Iran will start operating from Karachi Port to Iran’s Chabahar Port on January 22. It is going to offer a safer and more comfortable travel option, especially for religious pilgrims.
The ferry journey will take approximately 12 to 14 hours. Furthermore, it will be able to carry up to 240 passengers per trip. The return fare has been fixed at Rs. 50,000 per passenger, which includes baggage charges, making it a cost-effective alternative to long and exhausting road travel.
Dedicated Ferry Terminal Inaugurated at Karachi Port
To support the new service, a dedicated international ferry terminal inaugurated at Karachi Port by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. The terminal has various customs, immigration, and security systems that meet international standards.
Speaking to the media, the minister claimed that the terminal will make certain proper documentation and smooth processing of passengers, maintaining complete records of arrivals and departures. The endeavor behind this step is to make sea travel a reliable and organized option for international passengers.
Pakistan-Iran ferry service will Boost Religious Tourism and Economy
Officials said the Pakistan–Iran ferry service is primarily designed to facilitate religious tourism, as millions of Pakistanis travel to Iran each year to visit holy sites. Last year alone, over five million Pakistanis traveled to Iran, mostly using road transport, which often involves safety risks and long delays.
The ferry service is going to bring various benefits, such as
- Reducing travel fatigue
- Promoting economic activity
- Improving private investment
- Promoting tourism. Authorities are also making plans to gradually expand ferry routes to Iraq and Gulf countries, benefiting businessmen, workers, and tourists.
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Private Sector Role and Future Expansion
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has already issued a license to a private company, Sea Keepers, in August 2025 to operate the service. Although the idea was approved more than five years ago, it is now finally becoming a reality.
Sea Keepers CEO Muhammad Omar claimed that the ferry vessel imported from Australia, and plans are underway to bring in larger ferries with a capacity of over 500 passengers. He added that the service has got the best response as the bookings for three trips are already full even before the official launch.
A New Chapter in Maritime Connectivity
With the launch of the international ferry service to Iran, Pakistan is opening a new chapter in regional sea travel. The initiative promises safer journeys, stronger people-to-people ties, and expanded maritime routes, paving the way for future connectivity with the Middle East and beyond.