MN Kostas: The Sinking That Shook Crete’s Maritime Waters

Date of Incident: July 24, 2025
Location: Kyriamadi Reef, off Sitia, Crete
Flag: Sierra Leone
Cargo: Gypsum soil
Crew: 14 (all safely evacuated)

🌊 A Routine Voyage Turned Disaster

The MN Kostas, a 105-meter cargo vessel, was en route from Sitia, Crete to Chekka, Lebanon when it ran aground on a mapped reef near Cape Sideros, within a Natura-protected marine area. The grounding caused severe hull damage, leading to water ingress and eventual partial sinking.

Photos released by the Hellenic Coast Guard show the vessel listing heavily to starboard, with only its bow visible above water.

🧑‍✈️ Crew Evacuation and Legal Fallout

Thanks to swift action by the Greek Coast Guard, all 14 crew members were safely evacuated. However, the master and bridge officer were later arrested under the Greek Penal Code for causing a shipwreck.

⚠️ Environmental Risk and Salvage Operations

The incident posed a significant ecological threat due to its location in a protected marine zone. A major salvage operation was launched, led by the vessel AIGAION PELAGOS, under the coordination of MEGATUGS and the Hellenic Coast Guard.

• Pumping out fuel and lubricants
• Removing hazardous materials (hydrocarbons, paints, oils)
• Unloading cargo
• Sealing compartments

Despite 7–8 Beaufort winds, the salvage team prevented a marine pollution disaster.

🛑 Wreck Designation and Removal Mandate

The Sitia Port Authority officially designated MN Kostas as a wreck, citing its hazardous condition and navigational risk. The managing company has been ordered to remove the vessel under Greek maritime law.

🔗 External Resources & Further Reading

• CNN Greece Original Report
• ProtoThema: Salvage Operation Prevents Ecological Disaster
• Shipwreck Log: Full Timeline of MN Kostas Grounding
• TradeWinds: MN Kostas Sinks Off Crete
• Maritime-Hub: Summary of May 2025 Maritime Incidents