New ferry service links UAE, Iran

A new passenger and cargo service between the UAE and Iran was launched recently, connecting the country's east coast to the southern Iranian ports of Bandar Abbas and Jask.

This is the first direct ferry service from the UAE's east coast to Iranian ports.

Run by Tehran-based Valfajre-8 Shipping Company, the ferry will carry passengers and cargo between Khor Fakkan and Jask and Bandar Abbas. The company will be using a 250-seat ro/ro vessel for this service.

"We launched the service on August 10 to serve a growing number of people travelling to Iran. This is the first direct ferry service between the UAE's east coast and Iran," said T.V. Lonan, operations manager of Oasis Freight Agency, agents for the service.

"This is an excellent travel option for people visiting Iran, especially for those who have a lot of luggage.

"For the inaugural voyage, we had 78 passengers, which reflects the level of interest among people for travel by sea. Initially, we are planning four trips a month and, depending on the traffic flow, we will increase the frequency."

He said tickets were priced at Dh110 for a one-way trip to Bandar Abbas and Dh190 for a return ticket.

"We allow 70 kilogrammes of baggage for each passenger. Children's tickets are half-priced and they get a baggage allow-ance of 35 kilos."