Ferry service from Karachi Port to resume in new model

A major development in maritime sector as the ferry service from Karachi Port is set to resume in a revamped model, sources said. According to sources, after the international ferry operation was disrupted due to the ongoing war in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, a major change is going to be made in the project. Sources said the ferry service will now operate as a coastal tourism and extra luggage service within Pakistan. Under this initiative, citizens will be provided with marine tourism facilities from Karachi Port to the beaches of Sindh and Balochistan. In the first phase, the ferry service will operate from Karachi Port to Mubarak Village, Sunehra Beach, Charna Island, and Gadani. These are popular tourist destinations that attract a large number of visitors every year, but lack of proper transport facilities causes difficulties for tourists. The launch of the ferry service will not only boost tourism but also create employment opportunities for the local population. In the second phase, the ferry service will be extended to other ports of Sindh and Balochistan, particularly Keti Bandar and Ormara. According to sources, the ferry service will offer tourism as well as extra luggage service for cargo transportation to Gwadar and other coastal areas. Under the extra luggage service, local traders will be able to transport fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood products. This initiative will increase business activities in coastal areas and make it easier for traders to transport their products to major markets in Karachi. Sources said the extension of the Ferry Plus Luggage Service to Arab countries after the end of the war in the Middle East is also under contemplation. It is worth mentioning that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs had officially launched the ferry service from Karachi Port on February 8, 2026. For this purpose, a dedicated berth was allocated at Karachi Port, along with visa service, customs, and immigration desks. A company named Sea Keepers was issued a license to operate the ferry service. However, shortly after the launch, the service was suspended due to the war in the Middle East.