Rafina Ferry Strike July 3–4, 2026: Sailings Cancelled for 24 Hours
Updated July 1, 2026 — Ferry crews at Rafina Port held a 24-hour strike from 06:00 Friday, July 3 to 06:00 Saturday, July 4, 2026, keeping passenger and vehicle ferries tied up at Athens’ second port at the start of a peak summer weekend. Piraeus and Lavrio sailings were not part of this action.
What happened
The strike was called by the Panhellenic Union of Merchant Marine Seamen (PENEN) over safety and workload at Rafina, arguing the port’s infrastructure — berthing space for roughly 5 vessels — can no longer safely handle the 11 ferries now operating from it. A rally was held at the port at 10:00 on strike day. It followed an earlier three-hour warning stoppage.
Who was affected
| Route / service | Status July 3 (06:00) – July 4 (06:00) |
|---|---|
| Rafina → Mykonos, Tinos, Andros, Paros | Cancelled / rescheduled |
| Rafina → South Evia (Marmari) | Cancelled / rescheduled |
| Piraeus & Lavrio departures | Not affected by this strike |
| Athens Airport → Rafina transfers | Running normally (but pointless until sailings resumed) |
Operators moved most passengers to sailings immediately after 06:00 on July 4 or to equivalent departures from Piraeus. If you land at Athens Airport with a same-day Rafina ferry booked, always re-confirm the sailing before committing to the 25-minute transfer — Rafina is close to the airport, but there is little to do there if your boat is not leaving. Our Airport to Rafina guide covers timings and options.
Source: Keep Talking Greece, June 29, 2026
Ferry booked? Protect the connection
Ferry strikes are usually announced 3–5 days out. Book a transfer with flight tracking and free cancellation, and re-confirm your sailing the evening before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ports were affected by the July 3–4, 2026 ferry strike?
Only Rafina. The PENEN strike kept ferries docked at Rafina from 06:00 July 3 to 06:00 July 4. Piraeus and Lavrio sailings ran normally.
What happens to my ferry ticket during a strike in Greece?
Operators rebook you on the next available sailing at no charge, or refund the ticket. Check the operator’s website or app — do not travel to the port to find out.
How far is Rafina Port from Athens Airport?
About 15 km — roughly 25 minutes by taxi or pre-booked transfer, making it the closest port to the airport for Cyclades departures.
Related guides
- Athens Strikes & Travel Disruptions: Live Tracker
- Athens Airport to Rafina Port
- Athens Airport to Piraeus Port
- May Day Strike May 1, 2026: What Happened
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