The following has sparked strong reactions: The “Aqua Jewel” will not dock at the ports of Kythira and Antikythira on Sunday, December 1, 2024, with the company citing adverse weather conditions. Despite the announcements, quite a few residents and passengers question them allegations, as they report that Weather conditions in the area were mild and do not justify the decision not to call at the ports of Kythira and Antikythira.
The company's official announcement
According to a press release from TZAMBO JET N.E., the ship, while on its scheduled route, did not call at any ports due to «adverse weather conditions in the sea area of the voyage». After Gythio, the Aqua Jewel continued its journey to Piraeus, leaving the islanders dissatisfied.
Citizens reacted strongly on social media, where various opinions were expressed regarding who is to blame.
The Mayor of Kythira, Eustratios Charhalakis, responded to the comments by stating that «The mayor is not a ship's captain» and has no authority in such matters. Gianetta Masselou replied: «You're definitely not the captain, but you have to do something. This can't go on.».
Similarly, the Takis Bouzalakos stated that «The Coast Guard and the agencies are responsible for the lack of information». However, Gianetta Massellou reiterated the need to examine the issue in depth, as the problem occurs in both winter and summer.
Ο Dimitris Oikonomidis added a different perspective, noting that «As long as the island remains in Category C, this will continue’. He also wondered, whether there will be a replacement ship during the annual layup by Aqua Jewel.
Tassos Petrocheilos, arguing that the mayor is not to blame, praised the ship Porfyrousa, which arrived on schedule that same day. At the same time, he emphasized that responsibility lies primarily with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the shipowner.
Although the mayor of Kythira stated that has no authority, many citizens are expressing the need for initiatives by the municipal government, as the ferry service is a matter of vital importance to the local community and economy.
Key Questions That Need to Be Answered
- Which agency is responsible for assessing weather conditions? and decision-making? Were inspections carried out on the ship by port authorities? How long will this saga continue?;
- Why were the following excluded from the competition for the barren lands of Kythira? first- and second-class ships;
- There will be replacement ship during the Aqua Jewel's annual layup?;
- Why the Mayor doesn't complain at the Ministry, since it is and spokesperson of the island municipalities on the Coastal Shipping Council? What was its opinion regarding the tender for the uninhabited islets of Kythira at the meeting concerning the tender that specified the ship category?;
The case of the Aqua Jewel is indicative of the broader problems facing the ferry service between Kythira and Antikythira. While residents are demanding immediate solutions and accountability, responsibility appears to be scattered among companies, government agencies, and local authorities. The issue remains unresolved and requires coordinated action. However, when the smaller «Porfyrousa» consequently operates its routes on exactly the same day, calling at the same port, then there’s no room for further mockery and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs must assume its responsibilities. For the record, back in our local community, there was once an Artemis, a Psaltis, and a Pierros who put Kythira above all else, and everyone remembers the fierce protests at government ministries and even at the catapults. Today, it seems that spinelessness is the serious ailment afflicting our local government.
Photos from Marine Traffic, curated by our fellow countryman G. Politis.
Comments from citizens:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/481447948688750/permalink/2970629293103924/
