Maritime Analysis
Trouble on the Water: The Troubled Journey of the Af-Marina
By VesselRate AI Editor
Jun 18, 2026
The Af-Marina, a ferry operating between Bari and Durrës, has faced several concerning incidents over recent years, revealing vulnerabilities in its operations and safety protocols. On November 10, 2023, during its departure from Bari, the vessel encountered a significant fault in its steering system, causing panic among the passengers who reported feeling a sudden crash. The unforeseen incident meant that the exact departure time from the port was left uncertain for travelers, raising concerns about the ferry's reliability and the management of emergency situations on board, as indicated by a local report detailing the events surrounding the malfunction.
Earlier in 2023, on May 9, the Af-Marina was involved in a severe maritime incident that resulted in the sinking of the fishing boat 'Eltoni I', approximately four nautical miles from Durrës. The collision, which occurred around midnight, thankfully resulted in the successful rescue of the fishing crew, but it underlined the potential dangers that can arise from navigation errors or unexpected mechanical failures at sea. Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures in maritime operations.
Additionally, back in 2015, the Af-Marina experienced a total blackout shortly after leaving the ASE Terminal in Ancona, which left 527 passengers stranded. The power failure, occurring during the evening, prompted the vessel to be towed back to Ancona, with technicians dispatched to restore functionality. This incident not only disrupted travel plans for those on board but also forced the transportation of passengers and their vehicles to alternative ferries serving the Durrës route. After repairs, the Af-Marina re-embarked on its journey two days later, although the delay raised questions about protocol during such emergencies.
As these incidents accumulate, the Af-Marina’s operational history highlights essential discussions about maritime safety and the potential risks involved for passengers. Maritime authorities and ferry operators must address these challenges to ensure safe and reliable transport across the waters.
Earlier in 2023, on May 9, the Af-Marina was involved in a severe maritime incident that resulted in the sinking of the fishing boat 'Eltoni I', approximately four nautical miles from Durrës. The collision, which occurred around midnight, thankfully resulted in the successful rescue of the fishing crew, but it underlined the potential dangers that can arise from navigation errors or unexpected mechanical failures at sea. Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures in maritime operations.
Additionally, back in 2015, the Af-Marina experienced a total blackout shortly after leaving the ASE Terminal in Ancona, which left 527 passengers stranded. The power failure, occurring during the evening, prompted the vessel to be towed back to Ancona, with technicians dispatched to restore functionality. This incident not only disrupted travel plans for those on board but also forced the transportation of passengers and their vehicles to alternative ferries serving the Durrës route. After repairs, the Af-Marina re-embarked on its journey two days later, although the delay raised questions about protocol during such emergencies.
As these incidents accumulate, the Af-Marina’s operational history highlights essential discussions about maritime safety and the potential risks involved for passengers. Maritime authorities and ferry operators must address these challenges to ensure safe and reliable transport across the waters.
Based on these news reports:
- Steering System Malfunction Disrupts AF Marina's Departure from Bari (2023-11-10)
- Ferry Collision with Fishing Boat Near Durres Prompts Investigation (2023-05-15)
- AF Marina Ferry Experiences Blackout, Prompting Towing Back to Ancona (2015-07-20)