A technical malfunction on a passenger ferry bound for Corfu caused significant disruption to travelers on November 2, 2025, when the vessel’s main boarding ramp failed during departure procedures at Igoumenitsa port.
Main boarding ramp fails during departure
The passenger-vehicle ferry ‘Ioannis Kapodistrias’ (registration number N.P. 10538) experienced a malfunction of its main vehicle and passenger boarding ramp while attempting to depart from Igoumenitsa. The vessel was scheduled to complete a routine crossing to Lefkimmi port on the island of Corfu.
At the time of the incident, the ferry was carrying 66 passengers and 30 private vehicles. The malfunction occurred during the critical departure phase, preventing the vessel from safely proceeding with its scheduled voyage.
Passengers rerouted to Corfu main port
Following the technical failure, port authorities coordinated an alternative transportation solution for the stranded travelers. All 66 passengers and their 30 vehicles were transferred to other vessels and redirected to the main port of Corfu instead of their original destination at Lefkimmi.
The rerouting caused delays and inconvenience for passengers who had planned to disembark at the southern Corfu port of Lefkimmi, forcing them to make additional arrangements to reach their final destinations from the island’s main port in Corfu town.
Port authority issues sailing ban
The Central Port Authority of Igoumenitsa took immediate action in response to the malfunction. Officials prohibited the departure of the ‘Ioannis Kapodistrias’ until full restoration of the damaged equipment is completed.
According to the port authority’s directive, the vessel cannot resume operations until two conditions are met: complete repair of the boarding ramp malfunction and submission of a class maintenance certificate from the ship surveyor responsible for monitoring the vessel’s technical compliance.
This standard safety protocol ensures that all mechanical systems are functioning properly before the ferry is cleared to transport passengers and vehicles again.
No environmental impact reported
Port officials confirmed that the incident did not result in any marine pollution. Environmental monitoring conducted following the malfunction detected no oil spills, fuel leaks, or other contaminants released into the sea.
The absence of environmental damage indicates that the malfunction was purely mechanical in nature, confined to the boarding ramp system, and did not affect the vessel’s hull integrity or fuel systems.
Ferry route serves southern Corfu communities
The Igoumenitsa-Lefkimmi ferry route serves as an important transportation link for residents of southern Corfu and travelers seeking to access the island’s southern regions. Lefkimmi port provides a shorter crossing time and more convenient access to southern Corfu communities compared to the main Corfu port.
The temporary suspension of the ‘Ioannis Kapodistrias’ may affect service frequency on this route until repairs are completed and the vessel receives clearance to resume operations. Passengers planning to travel to Lefkimmi are advised to check with ferry operators regarding alternative schedules and routing options.
Investigation and repair timeline
While port authorities have not announced a specific timeline for the vessel’s return to service, the repair process will require inspection by certified marine engineers and approval from the ship surveyor. The duration of the suspension will depend on the extent of the ramp damage and the availability of replacement parts or repair specialists.
Ferry operators are expected to provide updates on the vessel’s status and anticipated return to service as the repair work progresses. In the meantime, passengers traveling between Igoumenitsa and Corfu should verify their ferry schedules and be prepared for possible changes to departure ports.
The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and safety inspections for passenger vessels operating in Greek waters, particularly during the busy travel periods when ferry services are essential for island connectivity.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/vlavi-ston-katapelti-tou-ploiou-pou-ektelouse-to-dromologio-gia-to-limani-tis-lefkimmis-talaiporia-gia-tous-epivates/
