For the fourth consecutive day, a strike by Greek seafarers continues to disrupt ferry operations between Greece and Italy, affecting passenger and freight movement. The strike, organized by the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PENEN), has been extended until June 19, immobilizing all Greek-flagged passenger ferries, while foreign-flagged vessels continue to operate normally.
Patras: Superfast Ferries Halted – Only “Akka” in Service
In Patras, four passenger ferries of ATTICA Group – Superfast I, II, IV, and XI – remain docked due to the crews’ participation in the strike. As a result, all sailings to Italy aboard these vessels have been canceled.
However, the German-flagged “Akka”, which is chartered by ATTICA, continues to operate the Patras–Ancona route. As its crew is not subject to Greek maritime unions, it is unaffected by the strike.
Freight Ro-Ro vessels (roll-on/roll-off), which serve cargo transport exclusively, also continue their operations, offering a limited but vital alternative for the movement of goods.
Igoumenitsa: “Kydon” Docked – Italian Vessels Maintain Service
At the port of Igoumenitsa, the Greek-flagged “Kydon” (Minoan Lines) has suspended operations and has been removed from the reservation system. The ferry remains inactive due to the ongoing strike.
Conversely, three Italy-flagged Ro-Pax ferries continue their scheduled sailings between Greece and Italy. Among them, the “Superfast III”, under the Italian flag, is expected to arrive in Igoumenitsa from Brindisi today, unaffected by the labor action.
Ministry of Shipping Responds – Legal and Operational Measures
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has emphasized that the strike has been declared illegal by court ruling, and port authorities are required to report any non-compliance. While the ministry cannot intervene judicially, it underlines that it must respect court decisions.
Additionally, the ministry notes it has approved a new collective labor agreement for seafarers on Adriatic routes, in line with negotiations between employers and workers. Nevertheless, as it is a labor dispute, the ministry’s capacity for intervention remains strictly defined by law.
Concerns Over Summer Travel and Market Disruption
The ongoing strike has effectively created a de facto monopoly of foreign-flagged vessels on the Greece–Italy routes, raising concerns over the resilience of Greek passenger shipping, especially during the peak summer travel season.
Passengers and transport companies are actively seeking alternatives, often resorting to foreign-operated ships or postponing travel plans, which has led to increased logistical complexity and financial burden.
The strike is set to continue through June 19, unless a resolution is reached. Industry stakeholders are urging for a solution to minimize further disruption to tourism and freight services during this critical period.
