Greek Ferry Captains Call for Urgent Upgrades at 102 Ports

Photo source: PEPEN

Infrastructure at a total of 102 ports on the islands and mainland of Greece requires significant updating and upgrading, according to the annual report from the Panhellenic Union of Merchant Marine Captains (PEPEN), which also represents passenger shipping officers.

In its 100-page 2024 report on the conditions of Greek ports, PEPEN highlights concerns about the safety of the thousands of passengers and vehicles transported, especially during the summer season, to Greece’s numerous ports, as well as for the ferries and their crews.

Ferries navigating the Greek seas approach both island and mainland ports daily, some of which require deepening, better lighting, and professional impactors, while others lack basic infrastructure such as passenger waiting areas, signage, or adequate parking spaces for vehicles awaiting boarding.

Plans for the improvement of the Aegina port to shield it from strong winds. Photo source: PEPEN

The report also addresses the unregulated anchoring of large cruise ships and yachts offshore, near port entrances, which complicates the approach for other vessels.

Greek ferry captains emphasize that with increasing tourist flows, the maintenance and improvement of port infrastructure are more crucial than ever.

The report includes maps and photographs taken by ferry captains from various shipping lines, illustrating the challenges they face and supporting their demands.

The port of Mytilene requires dredging, which involves removing sediment and debris from the waterway to enhance navigability, as well as better lighting for safety, according to PEPEN. Photo source: PEPEN

Additionally, they urge the Greek government to amend existing laws that place all legal responsibilities on ferry captains, even in situations where problems or shortcomings stem from inadequate port infrastructure.

While PEPEN acknowledges efforts made to enhance port conditions through the Ports Planning and Development Committee (PPDC), Greek captains stress that “the overall picture requires solutions to address existing issues”.