Three ships ended up damaged this week afterthe 15,000-gt ferry European Express (built 1974) broke its longtime lay-up moorings at pier in Perama Bay near Piraeus.
The incident is said to have taken place on Tuesday.
In its bid to seemingly take to the open seas again, the European Express collided with Alpha Ferries’ 4,000-gt ferry Aqua Jewel (built 2002) and the 1,900-dwt bunker tanker Sotiria (built 1967).
The Aqua Jewel, which was in port undergoing engine repairs, has reportedly sustained significant damage. The Sotiria also suffered damage.
A statement from the Piraeus Port Authority indicates that there was no pollution, and tugs quickly brought the European Express under control and back to its berth. An investigation into the incident is underway.
The European Express is one of several old ferries belonging to bankrupt Greek ferry operator NEL Lines that are laid up in Perama awaiting final disposal, which will likely be at the hands of a ship recycler.
The Aqua Jewel, which had also been part of the NEL Lines fleet, was returned to service by Alpha Ferries only this past spring after enduring a long layup. The ship was only in service for a couple of months before engine problems forced it to head to Perama for repairs.
