An urgent weather bulletin from the National Meteorological Service warns of continued stormy conditions affecting sea travel in Greece. Strong northerly winds of up to 9 Beaufort force have led to a ban on vessel departures from the major ports of Piraeus, Lavrio, and Rafina. This prohibition remains in effect until further notice.
While the ban restricts most ferry sailings, some operators have chosen to run specific routes at their own risk, in accordance with regulations. Passengers with planned trips are advised to contact ferry companies directly for the latest updates.
The only regular routes operating are the short-distance connections within the Saronic Gulf from Piraeus and the line to Marmari in Evia.
Ferry Schedule Changes Announced by Blue Star Ferries
Blue Star Ferries released detailed adjustments for August 8, 2025:
- Blue Star Naxos will delay departure from Piraeus until Saturday, August 9, at 06:45. The ship will then follow its approved itinerary to Paros, Naxos, Donousa, Aegiali, Astypalaia, and back.
- Blue Star Paros cancels its 13:00 departure on August 8 to Syros, Tinos, Mykonos, and return.
- Blue Star Delos will sail from Piraeus at 16:00 instead of 13:00, with adjusted times at Paros and Naxos. The ship will not call at Thira.
- Blue Star Myconos cancels its 17:00 departure on August 8 to Syros, Mykonos, and other destinations. It will resume sailing on August 9 at 07:15.
- Nisos Samos postpones its departure to early hours of August 9, continuing its route through Psara, Oinousses, Chios, Mytilene, Lemnos, and Kavala.
- The Hellenic Highspeed service cancels the 13:00 sailing from Piraeus to several Cycladic islands.
- Artemis cancels its August 8 route from Lavrio to Kea, Kythnos, Syros, and onwards. If weather improves, departure may occur early August 9.
Weather Conditions and Wind Warnings
The meteorological update highlights a low-pressure system near Rhodes (1005 hPa) and high pressure over the Northern Balkans (1024 hPa), contributing to turbulent sea conditions.
Strong northerly winds ranging from force 7 to 9 Beaufort are expected over the following areas until the indicated times (UTC):
- Southeastern Aegean Sea and Central Aegean south of 38.20 latitude
- Northern Aegean
- Southern Evia Gulf
- Southwestern Aegean and western Crete
- Sea around Kythera and Carpathian Sea
These conditions pose significant risks for maritime activities and travel, especially in open waters and ferry routes.
Travel Advisory
Authorities urge travelers to monitor announcements closely and stay in contact with ferry operators for schedule changes. The ongoing strong winds may cause further disruptions, and safety remains the top priority.
This severe weather alert underscores the challenges faced by maritime transport in Greece during periods of intense wind and rough seas, calling for heightened vigilance among passengers and shipping companies alike.
