Serious Safety Concerns Raised Over Kalymnos Port – SAOS Ferries Warns of Imminent Accident Risk
Serious concerns over safety conditions at the port of Kalymnos have been raised by SAOS Ferries, through an official letter addressed to the Kalymnos Municipal Port Fund and copied to the leadership of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the Kos Public Prosecutor’s Office, and the media.
In the letter dated March 23, 2026, the company – owner of the passenger ferries “SAONISOS” and “STAVROS” – states that conditions at the vessel berthing area have “exceeded every acceptable safety limit,” warning of an immediate and confirmed risk of an accident.
According to the company, the quay features exposed metal structures, severe concrete deterioration, and a complete absence of fenders, significantly increasing the likelihood of vessel damage and potential injury to passengers or crew members.
SAOS Ferries also points out that despite repeated warnings, no substantial corrective action has been taken, describing ongoing inaction by the port authorities.
Additionally, the company raises concerns over equal treatment, claiming that its vessels are the only ones without access to shore power, despite commitments for resolution and its willingness to cover the associated costs. It also notes that even an unused existing power supply could not be temporarily utilized, raising questions about transparency and infrastructure management.
The company stresses that failure to address a known and documented risk may trigger both administrative and criminal liabilities, noting that the issue has been formally brought to the attention of the Prosecutor’s Office.
SAOS Ferries calls on the port authority to take action within ten days, including restoring the quay, installing proper fenders, and ensuring equal access to electricity.
Otherwise, it warns it will pursue all legal remedies and may even relocate its operations from Kalymnos to Pythagoreio in Samos if basic safety conditions and equal treatment are not ensured.
The company concludes that its primary aim is to prevent an accident and safeguard passengers and workers.
