Passengers from burning ship being transferred to Corfu on two ferry boats

Fire broke out on the Euroferry Olympia, sailing under the Italian flag, just before 06:00 this morning. The boat, which is near Erikoussa and was sailing from Igoumenitsa to Brindisi, was quickly evacuated using the lifeboats.

A fisherman in the area told ERT that there are 10 people unaccounted for and the search is continuing. Corfu Central Port Authority cannot confirm this information and said that there will be a head count of passengers at Corfu Port.

The ferry boats Kerkyra Express and Grigoris are on their way to the burning ship with two fire engines and a rescue crew. Another four port vessels and a navy vessel are also involved in the operation.



Regional Governor Rodi Kratsa and Harbourmaster Kostas Beretoulis told Enimerosi at 08:00 that the passengers from the Olympia were expected at the port in about four hours.

The Civil Protection Service, the Ambulance Service, the Fire Service are waiting in readiness as well as EODY to conduct rapid tests. Accommodation has been arranged for the passengers.

According to the Regional Governor, one passenger who has minor injuries has already been brought to Corfu by the Coastguard and transferred to the hospital.