Security alert lifted following hoax bomb threat on Blue Star 1 ferry

On the afternoon of November 9, 2026, security authorities at the port of Piraeus initiated an emergency protocol following a bomb threat against the ferry "Blue Star 1". The vessel, which was scheduled to depart for Syros, Patmos, Leros, Kos, and Rhodes, received the threat after an unidentified individual called a passenger, claiming that an explosive device was on board.

Following the alert, the crew and port authorities successfully evacuated all 875 passengers from the ship. The ferry was carrying 83 crew members and a significant vehicle load, including 89 passenger cars, 12 motorcycles, 110 trucks, and one minibus. Specialized teams from the Hellenic Coast Guard, supported by an explosive detection dog, conducted a thorough search of the vessel, including all internal areas and the vehicle decks.

By early evening, authorities officially declared the threat a hoax. The security alert was lifted, and the vessel was cleared for operation after investigators confirmed there were no explosive materials. Normal port operations resumed, ending the disruption for the passengers who had faced significant delays.