The passenger–vehicle ferry SAONISOS took part in the celebration of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Waters ceremony on Tuesday, 6 January 2025, at the port of Kalymnos, fully decorated with flags.
Following the conclusion of the ceremony, **SAOS Ferries / AXIOKERSA Maritime Company hosted a reception and offered refreshments on board the SAONISOS as a gesture of hospitality and celebration on this important feast day, which also coincided with the name day of the shipowner, Fotis Manousis.
It had been planned for the vessel to enter the harbor, perform maneuvers, and sound its siren as a salute during the casting of the Cross and the Blessing of the Waters. However, due to adverse weather conditions, the captain opted to keep the ship moored at its berth for safety reasons.
Among those attending the reception were Pantelis Kongas, Governor of the General Hospital of Kalymnos; Paisios, Metropolitan of Leros, Kalymnos and Astypalaia, who performed the customary blessing of the vessel; Dimitris Maragos, President of ANEK and of the Municipal Council; Ioannis Tyrelis, Deputy Port Commander (Lieutenant Junior Grade); shipping agent Giorgos Martinos; as well as the entire crew and family members.
Catering for the reception was provided by Anasis Catering. On the occasion of the reception, Kalymnos Times was given a guided tour of the vessel; the relevant material can be viewed in the videos that follow.
