Fire Ravages 9,655-DWT Greek RoRo Ferry: 29 Evacuated Off Mykonos
The Blue Carrier 2, carrying 166 trucks and 29 cars, was abandoned.
A fire broke out aboard the Greek-flagged RoRo cargo ferry Blue Carrier 2 early Friday morning, forcing the evacuation of all 29 people on board. The vessel, operated by Attica Ferries, was carrying 166 trucks and 29 cars when flames erupted at 08:57 local time, approximately 20 nautical miles north of Mykonos.
The 9,655-dwt ferry, built in Japan in 1997 and measuring 162 meters in length, was en route from Syros to Samos at the time of the incident. The crew, consisting of 28 members, along with one truck driver, abandoned the ship using lifeboats. They were later rescued by passing vessels and transported to the nearby island of Tinos without any reported injuries.
Firefighting operations underway
Attica Ferries confirmed that the fire originated in one of the ship’s garages and quickly spread to large sections of the vessel. The company has deployed a specialized salvage team to assist authorities in managing the situation. At least two firefighting vessels, along with a salvage tug equipped with firefighting capabilities, have reached the scene to battle the blaze.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting it may have started in a truck. However, no official confirmation has been released. The Hellenic Coast Guard has coordinated the response, with additional support from other vessels in the area.
The Blue Carrier 2, previously known as the Clementine under CLDN Ferries, was acquired by Attica Ferries in July 2023. The vessel plays a key role in transporting goods between the Cycladic islands, where ferry services are essential for trade and supply chains.
Impact on maritime operations
The incident has disrupted ferry services between Syros and Samos, two critical hubs in the Aegean Sea. Syros serves as the administrative capital of the Cyclades, while Samos, located near the Turkish coast, is a vital link for both commercial and passenger traffic. Delays in this route could affect the transport of perishable goods and other essential supplies.
Mariners in the region have been advised to avoid the area while salvage operations continue. The Hellenic Coast Guard is monitoring the situation to prevent environmental damage and ensure navigational safety. Attica Ferries, as the vessel’s operator, remains responsible for managing the aftermath, including potential cleanup efforts.
The fire aboard the Blue Carrier 2 underscores the risks associated with RoRo ferries, which transport vehicles and cargo across short sea routes. While such incidents are rare, they highlight the importance of strict fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness. The crew’s swift evacuation aligns with international maritime safety standards, including the IMO’s Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention.
As the investigation progresses, authorities will examine the vessel’s maintenance records and firefighting systems to determine whether any lapses contributed to the fire’s spread. The Blue Carrier 2, built nearly three decades ago, may face scrutiny over its compliance with modern safety regulations.
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