Lebanon Launches First Tourist Ship from Jounieh Port Under "Lebanon as Vast as the Sea" Slogan

The launch of Lebanon’s first tourist ship, Cedar Waves, at Jounieh Port marked a pivotal moment in restoring the country’s presence in regional maritime transport and tourism. The event, held under the slogan "Lebanon as Vast as the Sea," was organized by businessman Mar’i Bou Mar’i and initiated by MP Naama Afram, who led efforts to rehabilitate the port. It attracted a wide official, political, economic, security, diplomatic, and media attendance.

Among those present were Minister of Public Works and Transport Faiz Rassamni, Minister of Tourism Laura Al-Khazen Lahoud, several current and former parliamentarians or their representatives, the General Director of General Security Brigadier General, the Director General of Customs, and the Director General of Civil Defense.

The event also included numerous senior security officials and officers, especially from Mount Lebanon, port officials, representatives of various diplomatic missions, political and economic figures, mayors, religious authorities, general directors, media and press union leaders, economic body representatives, businessmen, associations, and journalists. The Municipality of Jounieh participated actively in the port’s rehabilitation and activation, represented by its head Faisal Afram and members.

The Cedar Waves ship, with a capacity of 350 passengers, was announced to commence weekly voyages extending until the end of October. The service includes a comprehensive travel experience with an electronic booking system and advanced services.

MP Naama Afram emphasized that the occasion surpasses the launch of an economic project. He stated, "To some, this ship may be merely a means of transport, but for us, it symbolizes a country that refuses to die, a people who do not surrender, and the will to live that has distinguished the Lebanese through all stages. From Jounieh Port, which was closed for years, we declare that Lebanon no longer settles for just looking at the sea nor accepts its fate as written. Just as this ship will sail from this port, Lebanon wants to change its destiny with its own hands."

Afram added, "After years of crises, we affirm that the Lebanese remain capable of initiative, investment, and building hope." He stressed that the project represents a sovereign step reconnecting Lebanon to the world as a successful model of public-private sector integration, creating a two-way bridge for transporting Lebanese citizens and attracting tourists. He also extended special greetings to businessman Mar’i Bou Mar’i and the teams who contributed to the project's success, recalling the historical role of Jounieh Port during the Lebanese war.

Minister Laura Al-Khazen Lahoud described the project as part of a comprehensive vision to link Lebanon with the world. She said, "Every investment in transportation is an investment in tourism and the economy. This project enhances Jounieh’s position as a vibrant maritime gateway." She noted that developing ports, airports, and transport networks is a fundamental component of the tourism experience and affirmed that "launching this project under current circumstances sends a clear message: investing in the future begins today." She also highlighted Jounieh’s strategic location and its capacity to connect tourists to various Lebanese regions.

Businessman Mar’i Bou Mar’i explained that the project carries a national dimension, stating, "This maritime line is not just a means of transport but a message of hope and confidence in Lebanon’s future." He reviewed his experience in the maritime transport sector since 2005, mentioning challenges faced from the 2006 war to the Beirut port explosion, and affirmed continued belief in Lebanon’s ability to recover. He added, "Launching this project today confirms that Lebanese willpower is stronger than all challenges."

Project director Madonna Houik confirmed that the ship’s launch is the result of months of work, describing the voyage aboard as a complete travel experience. She explained that the ship accommodates 350 passengers and is equipped with modern, advanced services that consider the needs of people with disabilities.

She also mentioned the possibility of organizing special events onboard, enhancing the ship’s position as a comprehensive tourist product. For reservations, visitors can access the Cedar Waves website at https://www.cedarwaves.com/.

Houik added, "This project represents a fundamental step toward boosting maritime transport in Lebanon, revitalizing marine tourism, connecting Lebanon with Mediterranean countries, supporting the local economy, and creating new job opportunities." The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cake-cutting, and a toast, followed by a tour of the ship’s sections. From Jounieh, Lebanon sets sail again toward the Mediterranean, not only through a sea voyage but through a vision that revives its historical role as a bridge between East and West.