Inadequate Port Infrastructure Led to Andros Ferry Incident, Not Captain

The Greek ferry system has once again come under scrutiny for its poor operational standards, with the recent arrest and firing of a ferry master who saved his ship from an imminent grounding. Scapegoating has been a common practice to cover up systematic malfunctions in the Greek Islands ferry scene, with masters often bearing the brunt of the blame. The master of the ferry Saonisos was treated as a criminal for executing a standard maneuver to prevent a potential disaster.

The history of the Greek ferry system reveals a rapid development of ro/pax ferries to cater to the increasing traffic to the islands. However, while vessel quality and size have improved, port facilities have not kept pace with the growth. The Med mooring technique, used for rapid turnarounds, has become a standard operating procedure despite adverse weather conditions in the Aegean.

With underdeveloped port facilities unable to accommodate larger vessels, the onus has fallen on ferry masters and crews to hone their skills to navigate challenging conditions. Despite the risks involved, the current ferry system has allowed for the smooth movement of passengers and vehicles, albeit not meeting international safety standards. Until there is investment in safe port infrastructure, ferry masters may need to prioritize safety over efficiency to ensure the well-being of all onboard.

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