“Tonight we honor not only our maritime tradition but all the people who keep it alive. Those who face the challenges of the oceans every day. With bravery and self-denial.” These words belong to Costis Fragoulis, President of the Propeller Club Port of Piraeus, who opened the event for the AMVER Awards to Greek shipping companies and their crews who every year save hundreds of human lives endangered in the seas of the world. The event, organized by the Propeller Club Port of Piraeus, in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Greece and the United States Coast Guard, is celebrating its 31st anniversary.

The AMVER (Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue) system monitors the ships’ courses, identifies potential problems, and notifies other vessels in the area to approach and provide assistance.