With strong concern, but also with well-documented comments on the actions of the competent authorities and the operational readiness of the crew, one of the most experienced captains of the Greek shipping industry, Sideris Mamidis, intervened publicly regarding the grounding of the ferry boat “Panagia Paravouniotissa” on the rocky islet of Glaros, off Nea Styra.

The veteran seafarer expresses his concerns about the authorities’ decision to arrest the captain before the ship’s detachment was completed. As he points out:

“I am neither excusing nor incriminating the captain, I don’t know exactly what happened. But you don’t leave the ship headless in the middle of a crisis. It is against every principle of seamanship to deprive the ship of its most important management factor -the captain himself- before the detachment operation is complete.”

Captain Sideris doesn’t stop there. With knowledge of the legal and technical parameters, he notes that the arrest of the captain may also have implications for the ship’s insurance, should insurers feel that the state acted recklessly:

“If there is further damage or sinking of the ship, the insurers will have every reason to take action against the Greek state, since it has weakened critical manpower from the bridge.”

Scenarios for the stranding

The captain of the “Panagia Paravouniotissa” reportedly claims that a rudder failure occurred, which he says prevented the vessel from avoiding the rocky islet. This position is partly supported by the testimony of a passenger who said he felt a sharp “jolt” before impact.

It is a finding that reinforces the mechanical failure scenario, although all of this is still under investigation. On the other hand, several passengers complained of a lack of guidance and information from the crew. As an indication, they reported that they had to locate the life jackets under the seats on their own.

The crew’s attitude

Despite passenger complaints of poor guidance, other testimonies highlight the crew’s readiness. Captain Mamidis highlights:

“The 100% successful abandonment of the ship without any casualties was also due to the training and reaction of the crew, in cooperation with the local vessels, the Coast Guard and the municipal authority of Karystos.”

Judicial developments

The “Panagia Paravouniotissa” remains beached while tugs have been tasked with drawing up a disengagement plan. At the same time, underwater work is being carried out by divers and vehicles are being moved to stabilize the bow.

The captain was taken to the Chalkida courts, he was charged with:

– Violation of navigation safety
– Obstruction of public transport
– Causing a shipwreck

He requested and received a deadline for apology until Friday and until then he remains in custody at the Port Authority of Chalkida.

The incident opens up a major debate on maritime safety, the reliability of inspections, crisis management, and the ease with which – according to shipping circles – maritime liability is criminalized, even before there is a full technical investigation.

Sideris Mamidis concludes with a warning that rings a bell: “Don’t be tried before you hear both sides” – Don’t rush to assign responsibility before you hear all sides.

The statement from the Ministry of Shipping

The Ministry further announced that:

– The captain did not immediately report the grounding, as he was required to do.

– The shipowner had not filed any detachment or salvage plan by the following morning, raising concerns about safeguarding property and protecting the environment.

– The District Attorney has already been notified of the company’s failure to comply with the required procedures.