ALGIERS - A new maritime route linking the Port of Annaba with the Port of Civitavecchia near Rome officially entered service on Sunday, aiming to strengthen maritime connectivity between Algeria and Italy and facilitate travel for citizens and members of the national community abroad, the Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities and Transport announced Monday in a statement.

The route’s inaugural voyage docked at the Port of Annaba on Sunday, carrying passengers from the Algerian diaspora residing in Italy, the statement added.

Passenger reception and vehicle border clearance upon arrival at the port were carried out in an organized manner in close coordination with various services including the maritime border police, customs authorities, and the port administration ensuring smooth procedures, fast processing, and optimal reception conditions, according to the same source.

Two weekly sailings have been scheduled for the new line as part of efforts to expand maritime transport options between Algeria and Italy and meet growing travel demand, particularly during peak movement periods for the Algerian diaspora.

According to the announced schedule, five sailings are planned for August (on the 9th, 19th, 23rd, 26th, and 30th), followed by four sailings in September (on the 2nd, 6th, 9th, and 13th). Arrivals at the Port of Annaba are scheduled for Sundays and Wednesdays.

The opening of this maritime route comes in implementation of instructions issued by the Minister of Interior, Local Authorities and Transport, Saïd Sayoud, aimed at facilitating travel for citizens and members of the Algerian community abroad while expanding the national maritime transport network.