Intensive controls and strict fines for ship loading safety
Due to the failure to comply with the rules for loading vehicles on an open-type passenger-cargo ship on August 18, 2025, on a ferry line in the Peloponnese, the competent Port Authority immediately initiated the procedure for imposing a fine on the Master and the person responsible for loading the ship, for violation of the General Port Regulation for the safe loading of vehicles. The fines in these cases can amount to tens of thousands of euros, depending on the severity of each case.
In this context, strict recommendations were made to the Captain, as he did not take appropriate care for the safe loading and stowage of the vehicles in the garage area and for the removal of passengers from their vehicles during the voyage.
At the same time, by decision of the Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias and order of the Commandant of the Hellenic Coast Guard, Vice Admiral Tryfon Kontizas, controls are being further intensified, especially on open passenger – car carriers.
According to data from the Ministry of Shipping and Insular Policy, since the beginning of the year, over 29,000 inspections related to the safety of ship and passenger loading have been carried out, 302 violations have been confirmed and fines totaling more than 100,000 euros have been imposed.
The Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, stated:
“The safety of passengers and employees is non-negotiable. The legislation will be strictly enforced and those who disregard the rules will face sanctions.”
