Greek authorities are investigating the sinking of the cargo ship MN Kostas, which occurred off Crete on August 19, nearly a month after the vessel grounded. The Hellenic Coast Guard has classified the ship as a wreck and maritime hazard, instructing the owner to remove it.
The Greek Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE) has intensified its crackdown on fuel smuggling, particularly in maritime operations. Recent inspections revealed significant undeclared quantities of marine oil aboard various vessels, leading to fines exceeding €161,000. The AADE continues to prioritize rigorous inspections to combat maritime fuel-related crimes effectively.
Columbia Group is urging urgent reforms in maritime education to address a critical shortage of qualified seafarers threatening Greece’s shipping industry. Despite controlling over 20% of global tonnage, fewer young people are pursuing maritime careers due to outdated training methods and insufficient career incentives. Immediate action is essential for future sustainability.
The Israeli-owned cruise ship Crown Iris faced protests during its stop in Syros, Greece, where around 1,600 passengers, including many children, were aboard. Initially scheduled for a six-hour visit, the port call was canceled due to demonstrators blocking access, raising safety concerns and prompting the ship to divert to Cyprus.
Greece has urged the International Maritime Organization to unite against rising tensions in the Red Sea, following attacks on Greek-owned vessels, Magic Seas and Eternity C. The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs highlighted the need for restoring order in line with international maritime laws and issued safety guidelines for shipowners.
The Seamen’s Pension Fund’s annual review highlights a significant 11% rise in female seafarers in Greece, totaling 2,048. Despite this growth, global figures show a decline in women’s representation in the maritime workforce from 26% in 2021 to nearly 19% in 2024. Passenger ships lead in female employment, comprising 68%.
Seafarers operating ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa began a 24-hour strike at 6 a.m. Sunday, protesting government neglect over understaffing issues. The union warns of escalating actions if demands for better working conditions are unmet. Recent court rulings declaring the strike illegal highlight a pivotal moment in Greece’s labor history.
Seafarers on ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa will strike for 48 hours on June 3-4, citing chronic understaffing that jeopardizes safety and worsens working conditions. The Panhellenic Maritime Federation (PNO) criticized the government and employers for failing to address crew shortages, emphasizing the urgent need for improved staffing and working conditions.
Greece recently announced the completion of its marine spatial planning (MSP) and released the official map by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Environment and Energy. This milestone initiative aims to organize human activities in marine areas, establishing rules for the first time in the country’s maritime space.
Greece’s Motor Oil Group and Coral Marine achieved a historic milestone with the first delivery of bio marine fuels in the country. This move signifies a significant step towards reducing emissions and promoting a green transition in the shipping industry. The innovative blend used can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 21%.
A jury in Piraeus, Greece found the captain and first officer of the interisland ferry, Blue Horizon, guilty in a tragic 2023 case where a passenger was pushed to his death as the ferry departed port. The crewmembers faced charges for their roles in the incident, sparking national outrage in Greece.
The Greek Ombudsman’s inquiry into a tragic shipwreck in 2023 revealed that the coast guard failed to follow maritime regulations, leading to the loss of many lives. Survivors’ testimonies were confirmed, and disciplinary action was recommended against eight coast guard officers. Critical failures included delays in the search-and-rescue operation and lack of proper response.
The government ombudsman of Greece has concluded an inquiry into a tragic migrant shipwreck off Pylos, recommending a disciplinary investigation for eight senior officers of the Hellenic Coast Guard. The overloaded fishing vessel Adriana sank, resulting in 82 deaths and up to 500 presumed dead. Survivors accused the coast guard of contributing to the capsizing.
Greek companies Terna Energy and Motor Oil have partnered to develop Greece’s first offshore wind farm, in line with the government’s strategy to expand renewable energy sources. With Terna Energy’s expertise and experience, the joint venture aims to reach a total installed capacity of 6 GW by 2029, starting with a 400 MW wind farm by 2030.
Two maritime companies, Avin International and Kriti Ruby Special Maritime Enterprises, have been fined $3.375 million and ordered to make a charitable donation of $1.125 million for environmental violations. The companies admitted to pollution breaches during port calls in Florida and New Jersey, leading to a reminder of the importance of environmental compliance.
