Trabzon–Sochi ferry forced to return after Russia denies port entry

The ship departed Trabzon on Nov. 5 with 20 passengers aboard but remained offshore near Sochi for three days without receiving clearance to enter. As fuel supplies dwindled, the captain decided to sail back for safety reasons. The delay consumed about 25 tons of fuel, according to the operating company.

Among those affected were 18 Russian passengers, who will now be flown home at the Turkish operator’s expense.

Russian officials reportedly cited the “unsuitability” of passenger services in the region due to the ongoing conflict near the Black Sea, though the ferry had passed all documentation and security checks.

However, Sergey Turkmenyan, manager of the vessel’s Russian agency, questioned the explanation, noting that another ship, the Astoria Grande cruise liner, docked in Sochi and disembarked 1,100 passengers during the same period.

Legal experts say the Turkish company may seek compensation under maritime law for financial losses caused by the refusal. The operator is expected to assess its legal options following the failed voyage.