Working Conditions Aboard the Fd-Erato

On May 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM, the Captain of the 'Flying Dolphin Erato' alerted the Port Authority of Volos regarding a significant engine malfunction affecting the port side main engine. The ferry was set to embark on its scheduled journey to the northern Sporades, carrying 29 passengers along with six crew members. In response to the situation, the Central Port Authority of Volos took immediate action, ordering the cancellation of the ferry's departure until the necessary repairs were completed. Furthermore, a certificate of class maintenance must be provided by the designated classification society to authorize the vessel's safe operation.

On the morning of October 21, an incident involving the hydrofoil 'Flying Dolphin Erato' (IMO: 8861448, 162 gt) was reported to the Port Authority of Skopelos. The vessel was currently on its scheduled route connecting Alonissos, Agnotas, Glossa, Skiathos, and Volos with 13 passengers on board. While en route from Alonissos to Agnotas, a part of the hydrofoil's middle wing became detached near the southern shores of Ah Giorgis island. In response to the situation, the Port Authority of Skiathos has suspended the vessel's sailing until necessary repairs are made and proof of class maintenance is provided by the relevant classification society. Meanwhile, the ship-owning company took measures to ensure the affected passengers were safely transported to their intended destinations in Skiathos and Skopelos.

On September 19, 2023, the Port Authority of Alonissos received a distress notification from the Master of the 'Flying Dolphin Erato,' reporting a malfunction in the starboard main engine. This occurred while the vessel was on its scheduled route from Alonissos to Skopelos, Glossa, Skiathos, and Volos. Following the engine failure, the ship managed to return to Alonissos under its own power, where it successfully disembarked all 31 passengers without incident. The Port Authority has since issued a ban on the vessel's further departures until the engine damage is rectified and a certification from the classification society is provided confirming its seaworthiness.