Emergency plans bolstered on Santorini by Greek maritime ministry after quake swarm

A state of emergency has been declared on the Greek volcanic island of Santorini (Thira) after days of consecutive earthquakes.Thousands of people are fleeing the Greek island, one of Greece’s top tourist destinations, as continued seismic activity rattles the region. According to the Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy 7,376 people from February 2-4, including both residents and tourists, have left the island by ferry due to anxiety over frequent tremors.

Due to the state of emergency, ferries operated nine itineraries during that period and transported 7,376 passengers and 1,307 vehicles with final destination the port of Piraeus.

The ferry service has significantly relieved the pressure for the immediate departure of residents and visitors from the island.

The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy assured the public that there is “absolutely no increase” in the ferry ticket prices.

With the approval of the Greek ministry and the assistance of the ferry companies and their crews, two extraordinary itineraries were carried out on February 4, which served, in addition 2,264 passengers and 399 vehicles.

Santorini welcomes