Greek Seafarers Extend Strike For Better Wages & Work Rules, Suspending Ferry Services

Greek port — Image for representation purposes only

Greek seafarers have extended their strike for another two days, disrupting ferry services across the country as they demand better wages and improved working conditions.

Initially scheduled for October 22 and 23, the strike has been extended to October 24 and 25, coinciding with a national holiday on Monday.

As a result, most mainland and interisland ferry services have been suspended. Only a few short-distance routes and some domestic tankers and cargo ships are excluded from the strike.

The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO) and the Panhellenic Union of Deckhands (PENEN) led the strike. PNO has called for a meeting with Christos Stylianidis, Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, and is planning a rally to support their cause.

The unions are demanding a 12% salary increase in 2025, while the Greek Shipowners Association for Passenger Ships has proposed only a 3% increase.

The unions also want to remove Greek Law 41/50, which only enables high-speed ferries to operate for four months annually.

The law classifies crew members as “seasonal employees,” depriving them of basic wages and benefits, including unemployment.

Shipping companies are making huge profits, and the government has provided €150 million ($162 million) in subsidies to support services on less popular routes, according to reports.

The government is also proposing bonuses to encourage fleet modernization and a shift to greener shipping practices.

Concerns are rising that the strike would disrupt holiday weekend travel plans, so passengers with ferry tickets for October 24 and 25 are advised to contact travel agents or local port authorities for updates and alternative arrangements.

The situation remains tense as unions continue to press their demands, which might impact many people’s Christmas travel plans.

The strike is set to end at 23:59 on October 25, but further escalation is possible if demands are not met.

Reference: GreekCityTimes, AP News

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