Captain of Greek Ferry that Ran Aground Says “Rudders Got Stuck”

The captain of the Greek ferry that ran aground on a reef off the coast of Nea Styra, claimed that the ship’s rudders had become stuck.

The captain appeared before the Chalkida prosecutor earlier today to give his statement regarding the incident. During his testimony, he reportedly said he did not see the reef and that the ship’s rudders jammed.

The captain remains in custody by order of the investigating judge at the Chalkida Port Authority, facing charges of causing a shipwreck through negligence. He has been granted a deadline to give a formal statement this coming Friday.

Location of the ferry which ran aground. Source: Marinetraffic.com

He faces prosecution for endangering maritime safety and disrupting transportation. Additionally, he is charged with causing a shipwreck under the legal framework governing the investigation of maritime accidents.

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to remove the ferry “Panagia Paravouniotissa” from the reef. On Wednesday, tugboats arrived on-site to assist in the process of dislodging the vessel. It is noted that the ship was carrying 105 passengers and had a 9-member crew on board, along with passenger vehicles, at the time it ran aground. All passengers were transferred to other boats and disembarked safely on land.

Speaking to media, passengers noted a general lack of direction from the captain and its crew, saying that they helped themselves to life jackets and self-organized while waiting to be rescued.

Source: Tovima.com