About one-tenth of the world’s commercial fleet is handled by Greek owners who call the Aegean islands of Chios and Oinousses their home.
It was that very legacy that Greece’s Navigator Shipping Consultants honoured by holding the 21st edition of the Navigator Forum at those two cradles of Hellenic maritime tradition.
“Being all present today in the birthplace of thousands of seafarers and many shipowners, I couldn’t omit referring to the value of our seafarers and the maritime profession for Greek shipping,” Navigator chief executive Danae Bezantakou said as she kicked off proceedings.
About 250 participants took part in forum discussions on decarbonisation, smart shipping, logistics and environmental, social and governance issues.
They were also treated to displays of Chiot and Oinoussian folklore, feasting, singing and dancing.
Excursions included a visit to the Maritime Museum of Chios, where Intercargo president Dimitri Fafalios regaled participants with stories from the island’s rich maritime tradition.
The Navigator crowd was then off on a boat trip to nearby Oinousses, where mayor George Daniel welcomed them at Seamanship Square, followed by a visit to the local Merchant Marine Academy.
As accompanying events go, few in the shipping conference circuit can beat the conversion to the Greek Orthodox faith of John Joel Isidoros Whitehead, vice president of the International Propeller Club.
The former Methodist was baptised into his new rite by Markos, Bishop of Chios, Psara and Oinousses, at the Holy Church of St Isidore. Dorothea Ioannou, CEO of protection and indemnity mutual American Club, was the godmother.
