Pakistan is set to launch its first international passenger ferry service from Karachi Port to Iran’s Chabahar Port on January 22, marking a significant step toward improving regional maritime connectivity and providing an alternative travel option for religious tourists.
According to officials, the ferry service will be capable of carrying up to 240 passengers per trip, with an estimated travel time of 12 to 14 hours between Karachi and Chabahar. The service has been primarily designed to facilitate religious tourism, particularly for pilgrims traveling to Iran. The return fare has been fixed at Rs. 50,000 per passenger, which includes baggage allowances.
To support the launch, a dedicated ferry terminal has been inaugurated at Karachi Port by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. Speaking to the media, the minister said the terminal has been equipped with fully functional customs, immigration, and security systems to ensure smooth processing of passengers and to maintain accurate records of arrivals and departures in accordance with international standards.
The minister added that the ferry initiative is part of a broader plan to expand Pakistan’s international maritime passenger services. He said the frequency of ferry operations and the number of international routes would be increased gradually, with future connections planned to Iraq and Gulf countries. These routes are expected to benefit not only religious pilgrims but also businessmen, overseas workers, and tourists. He noted that the project would help boost economic activity, encourage private sector investment, and strengthen people-to-people links.
He further revealed that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is currently in discussions with three to four investors to issue additional licenses for operating ferry services on various international routes, indicating growing private sector interest in maritime transport.
It is worth noting that while the ministry awarded a license to a private company, Sea Keepers, in August 2025, the idea of launching an international ferry service had been under consideration for more than five years. The delay was largely due to infrastructure, regulatory, and operational challenges.
Sea Keepers CEO Muhammad Omar said the ferry vessel being used for the service was imported from Australia and meets international safety and passenger standards. He added that the company plans to import more ferries in the future, including vessels with seating capacities exceeding 500 passengers, to meet growing demand.
According to the company, the response to the service has been highly encouraging even before its official launch, with bookings for three ferry trips already reserved. Initially, the service is expected to operate on a weekly basis, but the frequency may be increased depending on passenger demand and operational feasibility.
The ferry service is expected to significantly benefit Pakistani religious tourists, especially considering that more than five million Pakistanis traveled to Iran last year, mostly using road transport from different parts of the country. Officials believe the new maritime route will offer a safer, more comfortable, and time-efficient travel alternative while strengthening Pakistan’s regional connectivity.
