Greek Ministry Lifts Ban On 61 Ferries

The Greek Merchant Marine Ministry has lifted a ban on 61 passenger ferries ordered into port for failing to meet safety requirements after the sinking of the Express Samina last month, Reuters reported. The ferries, confined to harbor since October 1, completed security refitting mainly involving fire safety. Sixty-five ferries were initially banned from sailing until they met the safety requirements. A total of 47 island ferries, nine international cruise ships and nine ferries on the Piraeus-Crete line were affected. Three ferries and one cruise ship are still confined to port. The ban came in the wake of the Express Samina mishap - Greece's worst sea tragedy in decades - which saw 80 people die.