48-Hour Strike by Greek Seamen’s Union Disrupts Patras-Italy Ferry Routes

The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNF) has announced a 48-hour strike affecting Adriatic routes, including the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Italy ferry services. The strike will commence at 00:01 on Tuesday, June 3, and last until 24:00 on Wednesday, June 4. According to the union, none of the critical issues faced by seafarers have been resolved. In a letter addressed to the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Island Policy, the PNF highlights staffing shortages on vessels operating these routes, emphasizing that this situation poses significant risks not only to the seafarers themselves but also to passenger safety and overall navigation security. Signed by PNF General Secretary Manolis Tsikarakis, the letter includes clear proposals for the minimum required crew numbers per ship department. The PNF stresses that adequate staffing is essential, both to combat exhausting overwork and to safeguard maritime safety and human life at sea.