Strong winds lead to the halting of ferry services from Greek ports, leaving passengers in a stranded situation aboard the islands.
Ferry services in the Aegean Sea, Greece, are currently experiencing significant disruptions due to strong winds reaching up to 60 km/h. This weather has prompted a portwide sailing ban by the Hellenic Coast Guard, affecting major ports such as Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.
The ban, which began early on Friday, is expected to last until Sunday, although it may be lifted earlier if weather conditions improve. Only a few local routes in the Argosaronikos area and some lines from Rafina are still operating.
Many regular ferry routes to the Cyclades and Kythnos have been suspended, leaving these islands disconnected from the mainland. Ferry companies, such as Aegean Sea Lines, have adjusted their routes and timings to adapt to the adverse weather but continue operating selectively.
The disruptions come during the peak summer tourist season, affecting not only ferry travelers but also tourism-dependent businesses on the islands. The ferry suspension impacts the critical connection between mainland Greece and popular islands in the Cyclades, including Serifos, Sifnos, Milos, and others served by Piraeus-based ferries.
Travelers are advised to closely monitor updates as the situation evolves depending on wind conditions. The port authorities are keeping a close eye on updated weather reports in the Aegean Sea. The Coast Guard also advises travellers to check with their ferry company for new departure times.
Hundreds of vehicles and thousands of passengers are stranded at ports due to cancelled sailings. The authorities recommend that passengers contact the local port authority and companies before travelling.
References:
- Aegean Sea Lines
- Hellenic Coast Guard
- Greek Tourism Ministry
- Kathimerini
The travel disruptions affecting the Aegean Sea Lines and other ferry companies due to the weather have forced a general news topic, with the Hellenic Coast Guard issuing a ban on sailing that extends to popular ports like Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio. This travel ban, in effect until Sunday but potentially shorter if conditions improve, has also impacted the lifestyle of thousands of passengers and vehicle owners who are currently stranded at ports. Additionally, the suspension of ferry routes to islands such as Serifos, Sifnos, Milos, and others in the Cyclades has created a void in the general news and knocked out a significant general-news connection between mainland Greece and these popular tourist destinations.
