Greek Port, Boarding Security Under the Microscope

The issue of port and ship boarding security has come into the spotlight after a 70-year-old man committed suicide on Tuesday, by jumping off the Blue Star Naxos near the island of Syros.

According to the police investigation, the man, said to be from Russia or Georgia, was a wanted criminal. Port authorities assisting in the inquiry are calling for tighter security checks during embarkation but shipping companies are insisting inspections are being carried out thoroughly.

Ferry operators are suggesting that infrastructure be in place at the ports so that security checks are run before embarkation, boarding times are not affected and ship departure delayed.

Passengers meanwhile, are also reporting lax ticket check procedures with the exception of discount ticket holders.

In the meantime, according to Shipping Ministry sources cited by Greek media To Vima, the ministry is aware of the problem noting that controls cannot be carried out on islands as there is a shortage of staff. In the meantime, officials are set to look into the possibility of security inspections taking place before embarkation at special port facilities.

It must be noted that cruise travelers go through rigorous check-in procedures before boarding.