An investigation is underway after an unusual maritime incident off the southern islet of Elafonisos on June 30, when a local ferry reportedly lowered its bow ramp while still at sea as a man swam toward the vessel during prolonged docking maneuvers.
Video circulating on social media appears to show the ferry on the Elafonisos–Pounta route repeatedly attempting to berth without success. With the bow ramp lowered, a man can be seen swimming several meters toward the vessel in an apparent effort to board as the crew continued maneuvering. Witnesses said the docking attempts lasted for about 20 minutes, raising concerns among residents and tourists over the safety of both the swimmer and passengers on board.
The coast guard and a local ship inspection team responded to the scene. An inspection found that the vessel had suffered a malfunction in its starboard main engine, which was temporarily repaired by the ship’s engineer, allowing the ferry to dock safely.
According to local reports, the “swimmer” is one of the vessel’s owners, who entered the water in an effort to assist the crew in completing the berthing operation safely.
No injuries or marine pollution were reported.
The coast guard at Neapoli Voion prohibited the ferry from sailing until it receives a seaworthiness certificate from the competent classification society. Administrative sanction proceedings have also been initiated in accordance with Greek maritime legislation.
Recent similar incidents include a ferry grounding off southern Evia (Euboea), a collision at the port of Rafina and mechanical failures that temporarily stranded passenger vessels.
