PENEN announces 24-hour strike on Rafina ferries over safety concerns
The Panhellenic Union of Merchant Marine Seamen (PENEN) has called a 24-hour strike on passenger and vehicle ferry services departing from the port of Rafina on Friday, July 3, citing safety concerns over port congestion and working conditions.
The strike will begin at 06:00 on July 3 and end at 06:00 on July 4. A protest rally is scheduled for 10:00 on July 3 outside the passenger ferry Super Ferry.
PENEN said the action is being taken in response to what it described as unsafe operating conditions at Rafina port, arguing that existing infrastructure is insufficient to handle current traffic levels. The union stated that while the port has capacity for around five vessels, it is currently serving up to 11 ferries, forcing some ships to remain at anchorage offshore or repeatedly shift berths.
According to the union, these conditions have resulted in increased operational risks, including complex manoeuvring in restricted space and the use of unsafe anchorage areas.
PENEN also raised concerns over crew welfare, citing fatigue, excessive workloads, and limited rest periods due to prolonged operations and time spent at sea. It said these factors compromise both seafarer safety and overall maritime operations.
The union added that ferry captains operating on Rafina routes have for the first time publicly described the difficulties faced during daily berthing and anchoring procedures.
PENEN’s leadership also criticised ferry operators, calling for full payment of overtime hours accrued as a result of the operational pressures. It said the current system places additional strain on crews and contributes to unsafe working conditions.
Maritime unions and local civic groups, including the SAVE RAFINA network, supported the mobilisation and reiterated opposition to planned expansion works at the port.
The union said it has formally notified the government, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, and relevant ferry operators in accordance with legal strike procedures.
The announcement follows a brief warning stoppage held last Friday, during which seafarers also staged a protest at the port.
The strike is expected to disrupt ferry services during the peak summer travel season, though operators have not yet announced contingency measures.
Source:AMNA
