PNO Strike Begins: Ships Tied Up in Ports, Corfu Affected
Corfu, March 5, 2026 – The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO) has commenced a 24-hour nationwide strike today, Thursday, March 5, 2026, leading to all ships remaining docked in ports across Greece. This action has significantly impacted ferry services to and from Corfu, leaving the island without sea connections for the entire day.
The Corfu Seamen’s Union promptly announced its participation in the strike, which began at 00:01 and is scheduled to conclude at 24:00 today. The decision was made during an extraordinary meeting of the union’s administration, aligning with PNO’s call for a comprehensive 24-hour work stoppage across all ship categories nationwide.
Corfu Seamen’s Union Joins Nationwide Action
The announcement from the Corfu Seamen’s Union explicitly states: “The administration of our union met extraordinarily and decided to participate in the 24-hour strike declared by PNO, on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 00:01 to 24:00 on the same day, across all ship categories nationwide.”
This means that no vessels will depart from Greek ports, including those serving Corfu, for the duration of the strike. The primary demand highlighted by the union, in conjunction with PNO, is the immediate disengagement of all seamen and students currently aboard ships in the Middle East region. Furthermore, they are advocating for the immediate declaration of this area as prohibited for ship approaches, underscoring concerns for the safety and well-being of maritime personnel.
Impact on Travel and Local Economy
The strike is expected to cause significant disruptions for travelers and freight transport to and from Corfu. Passengers planning to travel by ferry today are advised to contact their respective shipping companies for updates and alternative arrangements. The absence of ferry services will also have a temporary impact on the local economy, particularly for businesses reliant on daily deliveries and tourist traffic.
The nationwide strike by PNO is a powerful statement from maritime workers, aiming to draw attention to critical issues affecting their profession, with a particular focus on the safety of personnel in volatile regions. The situation is being closely monitored by local authorities and shipping companies, as stakeholders await further developments regarding the resolution of the dispute.
