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GEMINI - - 20 May 2026 -  unresolved 

Left

GEMINI
 unresolved 
01723
9000687
Passenger/Cruise
ANCHORAGE AREA OF KARYSTOS, Greece
Hydor AS

Right

20 May 2026
21 May 2026
Greece
26
Croatia; Greece; India; Saint Lucia; Türkiye; Ukraine

Circumstances

Flag: CAMEROON (originally reported by Greece)

CREW MEMBERS ARE LEFT WITHOUT THE NECESSARY MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT

Case details

21 May 2026: Flag State informed
P&I and Flag State have been promptly informed
21 May 2026: Repatriation pending
CREW MEMBERS WISH TO BE REPATRIATED
21 May 2026: Payment Pending
Contractual wages not paid for over 1 month

Comments and observations

23 June 2026: Ukraine
(From the Embassy of Ukraine in the Hellenic Republic)

The Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Hellenic Republic presents its compliments to the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters and, with reference to the Emergency Operational Order No. ***, has the honour to convey the following.

In accordance with its functions under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relation of 1963, the Embassy received urgent appeals from three (3) Ukrainian seafarers serving on board the cruise vessel M/V "GEMINI" (IMO 9000687, currently flying no flag). The seafarers requested immediate diplomatic and consular assistance in securing their repatriation due to the critical and hazardous conditions on board.

Referring to the official letter from the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters dated 21 May 2026 (Prot. No. ***), which formally declared the crew abandoned in accordance with Standard A2.5.2 of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006), the Embassy had previously contacted the financial security provider (P&I Club - Hydor AS), who are responsible for the repatriation arrangements. Although the repatriation fo the Ukrainian nationals in question had been scheduled for the morning of 19 June 2026, it could not be carried out due to the refusal of the vessel's Master. To the Consular Section's knowledge, no alternative arrangements for the repatriation of the seafarers have since been implemented by the shipowner or the Master.

Furthermore, the Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine notes the Emergency Operational Order dated 19 June 2026 regarding the instruction given to the Consortium "Mec Tugs" to undertake the immediate towage of M/V GEMINI from the Karysots anchorage to the Port of Elefsina due to severe threats to navigation safety, human lives, and the marine environment. However, according to the information obtained as of Jun 23, 2026, t he vessel has not yet been relocated and remains at its previous exposed position.

As the vessel has not been towed, the lives, health, and safety of the Ukrainian citizens on board remain under continuous threat.
Taking into consideration the official findings of the Karystos Port Authority and the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters regarding the critical depletion of fuel, food, and potable water, the Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine respectfully requests the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters to provide clarification on the following matters.

1. Whether the Consortium "Med Tugs" has been formally and operationally engaged to commence the towage operation of M/V GEMINI as of 23 June 2026;
2. What is the definitive timeline and planned date for the physical relocation of the vessel to the Port of Elefsina;
3. What interim humanitarian and safety mitigation measures have been undertaken by the competent Hellenic authorities to safeguard the rights, physical integrity, and welfare of the crew members remaining on board, including their right to repatriation under the MLC, 2006.

In view of the gravity of the situation, the Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine respectfully requests the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters to exercise its authority to facilitate the disembarkation and repatriation of the Ukrainian seafarers.

The Consular Section of the Embassy of Ukraine in the Hellenic Republic avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Hellenic Coast Guard Headquarters the assurances of its highest consideration.


16 June 2026: Other
(From Hydor)

We kindly acknowledge safe receipt of yours below.

As informed previously, we are discussing the matter with the Owners. In parallel, notwithstanding that our policy period has already expired, given the importance of the matter, we have also involved a correspondent & lawyer to investigate the matter and shed light onto the surrounding circumstances.

The investigation and the necessary organization inevitably require some time.

Please be assured that we remain actively engaged and are closely monitoring the matter with a view to achieving an effective resolution as soon as possible.


16 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
The attached message and urgent request was received from Captain HCG ***, Director at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Greece, concerning the Passenger (Cruise) Ship ‘GEMINI I’, IMO Number 9000687, flag on IMO GISIS and Equasis: UNKNOWN and before 1 March 2026: Bahamas, however allegedly currently: Cameroon FALSE, having on board 26 seafarers from Greece, Türkiye, Croatia, India, Saint Lucia, and Ukraine who were abandoned in the Anchorage Area of Karystos, Greece on 20 May 2026. The insurer is: Hydor AS. The vessel was previously reported to be abandoned in Piraeus, Greece on 1 September 2025 having on board 316 seafarers.

The urgent request is herewith forwarded for your kind attention and action, as appropriate.


16 June 2026: Greece
(From the HELLENIC COASTGUARD HEADQUARTERS)

1. As we have not yet received a response to our letter (f) concerning this issue, we wish to reiterate the urgency of the matter and respectfully request that you take the necessary actions without delay, in accordance with relevant international and national laws, to ensure the safety of both the vessel and its crew.
2. Should non-compliance occur, the appropriate sanctions will be enforced as stipulated.
3. We remain available should you require any further assistance.


15 June 2026: Greece
(From the HELLENIC COASTGUARD HEADQUARTERS)

1. Following our previous correspondence, please find attached an email from the vessel's master.
2. Given the urgency of the circumstances, action is requested immediately, in accordance with the provisions set forth by international and domestic legislation.
3. We remain at your disposal.

-------------------------------------------------------
(From the master of the vessel)

This letter constitutes my final formal notice to all concerned parties.

Based on calculations made under the most economical operating conditions, if there is no positive change in our current situation, I will, on Friday morning, transmit a MAYDAY message requesting towing assistance so that the vessel can be safely towed to a suitable port.
On the same day, I intend to seek direct assistance from the Greek authorities and request that the vessel be handled in accordance with the measures they consider appropriate, including placing the vessel under the control or custody of the Greek Government if deemed necessary.
I will reserve approximately one metric ton of fuel exclusively for essential safety purposes, including heaving up the anchor, facilitating the towing operation, and carrying out the mooring procedures upon arrival at the designated port.
In accordance with international maritime law and practice, the protection of human life is the highest priority. Leaving seafarers aboard a vessel that is effectively dead in the water, with non-functional safety systems and no practical means of maintaining safe operations, presents an unacceptable risk to life and may result in serious legal and humanitarian consequences. If no immediate solution is provided, the actions described above will unfortunately become unavoidable.
To date, both I and my crew have continued to perform our duties and preserve the safety of the vessel despite receiving no payments whatsoever. We have done everything reasonably within our power, yet we have not received the necessary support to resolve this situation.
Furthermore, should there be a possibility of organizing a towing or recovery operation within a few days after our evacuation, I am willing to keep a core team available ashore for a limited period at a location designated by the competent authorities. If such an operation is arranged, and if required, that core team can be brought back on board to assist, using the limited remaining fuel, with heaving up the anchor and facilitating the towing operation in a safe and efficient manner.
At this stage, I believe that I have exhausted all reasonable measures available to me, both legally and morally, to safeguard the lives of the crew and the safety of the vessel. Any further delay will only increase the risks.
As emphasized in my previous correspondence, I once again urge all recipients to carefully consider the seriousness of this situation and the potentially severe consequences that may arise, and to take immediate and effective action before irreversible outcomes occur.
Failing such action, issuing a MAYDAY call on Friday, requesting towing assistance, and placing the vessel under the direction of the Greek authorities in accordance with their instructions will remain the safest and most responsible course of action for the protection of human life and maritime safety.


15 June 2026: Other
(From Hydor)

We have been made aware of the situation and currently discussing the matter with the Owners. In parallel, by considering the importance of the matter, we have also involved a correspondent & lawyer to investigate the matter and shed light onto the surrounding circumstances.

The investigation and the organization will inevitably require some time.

Please bear in mind that our policy for this ship has expired on 24th of May 2026 and this vessel is no longer covered with Hydor.


15 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
The attached message and Note Verbale HCSLU 008/2026 of the Permanent Representation of Saint Lucia, dated 18 May 2026, was received from His Excellency Mr. Anthony Bryan Severin, Permanent Representative of Saint Lucia to IMO, concerning the Passenger (Cruise) Ship ‘GEMINI I’, IMO Number 9000687, flag on IMO GISIS and Equasis: UNKNOWN and before 1 March 2026: Bahamas, however allegedly currently: Cameroon FALSE, having on board 26 seafarers from Greece, Türkiye, Croatia, India, Saint Lucia, and Ukraine who were abandoned in the Anchorage Area of Karystos, Greece on 20 May 2026. The insurer is: Hydor AS. The vessel was previously reported to be abandoned in Piraeus, Greece on 1 September 2025 having on board 316 seafarers.

The attached Note Verbale is herewith forwarded to all relevant Member States and stakeholders having an interest in this severe abandonment case, for their information and urgent action, as appropriate.


15 June 2026: Saint Lucia
(From the he Permanent Representation of Saint Lucia)

The High Commission for Saint Lucia presents its compliments to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London and has the honour to bring to its urgent attention serious welfare and safety concerns regarding the vessel Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, bearing IMO 9000687 and flying the flag of Cameroon.

The High Commission has been informed by a Saint Lucian national serving aboard the vessel that the Gemini has been anchored off Karystos, Greece, for approximately eighteen (18) days, following its departure from Salamina, Greece, on 3 April 2026. Upon departure, the crew were reportedly advised that the vessel did not have sufficient fuel to reach its intended destination, Izmir, Turkey, resulting in the unscheduled anchorage.

According to information received, the crew is reportedly experiencing significant distress due to deteriorating living and working conditions.

The High Commission wishes to convey the following allegations and concerns raised by crew members:

1. Unsanitary conditions, including leaking sewage into the kitchen area.
2. Clogged drainage, flooded cabins, and overflowing garbage rooms producing strong odours.
3. Lack of ventilation or air conditioning, resulting in stagnant and foul air throughout the vessel.
4. Shortage of potable water for drinking and hygiene.
5. Recurring engine problem, including fires and smoke in the main crew service corridor (I-95)
6. Continuous reliance on the emergency generator for nearly one month.
7. Reports of unpaid salaries.
8. Allegations that crew were asked to sign false contracts on 25 April 2026.
9. Inconsistent or misleading communication from company management, including unfulfilled promises of bonuses.

The High Commission is deeply concerned that these conditions may constitute violations of international maritime labour standards, and may pose significant risks to the health, safety, and welfare of the crew.

Considering the above, the High Commission respectfully requests the assistance of the IMO in:

1. Verifying the welfare and safety conditions aboard the Gemini.
2. Ensuring the protection of the rights and wellbeing of all crew members, including the Saint Lucian national.
3. Facilitating any necessary intervention, including inspection, repatriation, or emergency support, as deemed appropriate under applicable national and international regulations.

The High Commission for Saint Lucia in London avails itself of this opportunity to review the International Maritime Organization in London the assurances of its highest consideration.


11 June 2026: Other
(From MirayCruise DPA)

Thank you for your message and for the continuous monitoring and support provided by the Karystos Port Authority regarding the situation of M/V GEMINI.

We fully acknowledge the concerns raised in your correspondence and would like to assure your Authority that all involved parties continue to make every effort towards achieving a permanent, safe, and compliant solution for the vessel, her crew, and the environment.

Since the vessel's arrival at Karystos, the Owners, Managers, Mortgagee Bank, legal representatives, agents, and other stakeholders have been actively working to identify a suitable port, shipyard, or lay-up facility where the vessel can be safely relocated. Various alternatives have been evaluated and discussions remain ongoing with several ports, shipyards, service providers, and relevant authorities.

Coordination with the Mortgagee Bank remains ongoing, and various financial and operational solutions are being evaluated simultaneously. In addition, the Owners are actively pursuing alternative financing and investment opportunities aimed at securing a sustainable and long-term solution for the vessel's current situation. However, additional time is required for these discussions and negotiations to progress and reach a concrete outcome. All parties remain committed to implementing a safe and viable solution and to facilitating the vessel's relocation to a suitable port or facility at the earliest possible opportunity.

We fully understand the Port Authority's position that temporary supplies of fuel, provisions, and other emergency necessities cannot constitute a permanent solution. Nevertheless, such measures remain essential to maintaining the vessel's safe condition and ensuring the welfare of the crew while efforts towards a permanent solution continue.

The Owners and Managers remain committed to keeping the Port Authority informed of all material developments regarding the vessel's intended destination, certification arrangements, crew welfare matters, and the anticipated relocation schedule as soon as further information becomes available.

We sincerely appreciate the cooperation, understanding, and assistance provided by the Karystos Port Authority throughout this challenging period and respectfully request your continued support while the ongoing efforts to secure a permanent solution are being finalized.


11 June 2026: Bahamas
(From The Bahamas Maritime Authority)

The Bahamas has had no further legal or regulatory connection with the referenced vessel since its deletion from the Bahamian Ship Registry in March 2026.

Accordingly, the vessel is no longer entitled to fly the Bahamian flag or to rely on any certificates, documents, or authorisations previously issued under that registry. Any continued representation to the contrary, including the use of fraudulent or invalid documentation, is a matter for the competent authorities within the relevant jurisdiction.

We have formally notified the appropriate authorities, including the IMO, of the vessel’s deletion from the registry. In light of the foregoing, any enforcement or legal action in respect of the vessel’s current activities properly rests with the applicable flag state and/or port and coastal state authorities.

The Bahamas is not in a position to take any further action in this matter.


11 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
Thank you for your message and information concerning the Passenger (Cruise) Ship ‘GEMINI I’, IMO Number 9000687 which will be duly noted on the joint ILO/IMO database on abandonment of seafarers.

Apparently, the vessel was previously reported to be abandoned in Piraeus, Greece on 1 September 2025 having on board 316 seafarers. However, more recently on 21 May 2026 the vessel was again reported to be abandoned while the flag is currently UNKNOWN on IMO GISIS and Equasis and indeed before 1 March 2026: Bahamas, but allegedly now: Cameroon FALSE (which still needs to be confirmed).

The vessel is now having 26 seafarers on board from Greece, Türkiye, Croatia, India, Santa Lucia, and Ukraine who were abandoned in the Anchorage Area of Karystos, Greece on 20 May 2026. The insurer is again reported as: Hydor AS

All this new information has been inserted in the joint database, and a new notification has just been forwarded. We would like to receive your comments and those from other stakeholders concerned regarding this new entry as soon as possible before COB on 24 June 2026.

I hope that this additional information is helpful for your further considerations and I once again would like to thank you for your swift response.


11 June 2026: Bahamas
(From the Bahamas Maritime Authority)

Thank you for contacting the Bahamas Maritime Authority. The subject vessel, GEMINI, was deleted from our registry on 10 March 2026, after completing the due payments and repatriating the effected crew members.

The abandonment case was closed and published on the IMO/ILO Joint Database on Abandonment of Seafarers as “RESOLVED”. See the screenshot below.

The Greek PSC officials and all other parties, including ITF/IMO and ILO, were already informed about the ship deletion from the Bahamas registry.

Please be informed accordingly.


11 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
Flag on IMO GISIS and Equasis: UNKNOWN and before 1 March 2026: Bahamas, however allegedly currently: Cameroon FALSE

refer the attached second report concerning the same vessel which was previously reported to be abandoned in Piraeus, Greece on 1 September 2025 having on board 316 seafarers.


11 June 2026: Greece
(From the HELLENIC COASTGUARD HEADQUARTERS)

1. In response to your (e) email, we would like to thank you for your prompt reply. We are aware that the financial certificate was in force until May 24, 2026; however, we informed you in our letter dated May 21, 2026 (date on which the financial security certificate was in full force), for the severe shortage of supplies (water, fuel, food), as described in paragraph 9(c) of Standard A2.5.2 of the MLC 2006, identified by officers of the Karystos Coast Guard Authority and also reported by the captain of the vessel. Additionally to the above mentioned the seafarers’ wish for repatriation, has not been undertaken by the shipowner to date. Consequently, the crew falled under the definition of abandoned seafarers in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention. Thus, our Directorate had reported promptly, on May 21, 2026, the case to the relevant ILO department for the update of the joint ILO/IMO database and had drawn your attention to the need to undertake the shipowner’s obligations.
2. We remain at your disposal should any further information or clarification be required.-


11 June 2026: Greece
(From the Harbor Master)

All Responsible and Concerned Parties Involved in M/V GEMINI (Owners, Mortgagee Bank, Managers, Legal Representatives, P&I Correspondents and Other Interested Parties).

Further to all previous correspondence and following the latest inspection carried out by officers of the Karystos Port Authority onboard M/V GEMINI, we must express our serious concern regarding the vessel's current condition and the continuing absence of a definitive solution.
The findings of the latest inspection indicate that the situation onboard remains critical and continues to deteriorate.
Significant concerns remain regarding crew welfare, sanitary conditions, wastewater management, fuel and fresh water autonomy, operational safety, environmental compliance and the overall habitability of the vessel.
Particular concern is raised by the absence, to date, of any concrete and approved plan regarding:

the relocation of the vessel,
the issuance and validation of the vessel's certificates, the lifting of existing restrictions and prohibitions, crew relief and welfare arrangements, waste management arrangements, and the long-term operational viability of the vessel.

The Port Authority has repeatedly highlighted that temporary supplies of fuel, water and provisions do not constitute a permanent solution and merely postpone the risks currently affecting the vessel, the crew and the environment.
Therefore, all concerned parties are hereby requested to clearly state their position and intentions regarding M/V GEMINI and to immediately advise this Authority of:

the responsible party currently coordinating the case

the agreed relocation strategy

the intended destination port, shipyard or repair facility

the status of the vessel's certification process

the arrangements being made for crew welfare and outstanding wages

and the anticipated timeframe for the vessel's removal from Karystos gulf of refuge.

Given the current circumstances, the Port Authority considers the matter urgent and cannot accept indefinite delays while the vessel, crew and environment continue to be exposed to increasing risks.

All parties are strongly urged to take immediate and coordinated action towards a permanent solution.


11 June 2026: Other
(From the insurer, Hydor)

We kindly acknowledge safe receipt of yours below.

We will be discussing the matter with the Owners. Meanwhile we are engaging our correspondents and lawyers to investigate the matter.

Please bear in mind that our policy for this ship has expired on 24th of May 2026 and this vessel is no longer covered with Hydor.


10 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
The information received is duly noted and will be recorded on the joint IMO/ILO database of abandonment of seafarers. Whilst I herewith would like to appreciate all the actions that Greece has taken so far, I would also like to call on the flag State Bahamas and the compulsory insurer provider Hydor to provide for an update on their due diligence taken under the relevant IMO instruments and existing obligations under the MLC, 2006.


10 June 2026: Greece
Ministry Of Maritime Affairs And Insular Policy/
Hellenic Coast Guard/
Seafarer's Labour Directorate


1. Further to our previous correspondence, we wish to draw your urgent attention to the fact that the condition of the vessel has deteriorated to a critical level. In particular, the vessel is experiencing a severe shortage of food provisions and fuel, while the supplies delivered to date are manifestly inadequate to meet the essential needs of the vessel and its crew. Furthermore, the vessel continues to remain in a location that poses a significant risk to safe navigation due to prevailing adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and currents. Moreover, with regard to the apparent abandonment of the seafarers within the meaning of Standard A2.5.2 of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), it is noted that, in addition to the acute shortage of provisions and other necessities, the crew members’ requests for repatriation have neither been arranged nor financially secured. At the same time, outstanding wage payments have now accumulated to a period approaching two months.

2. In view of the foregoing, you are hereby urged to take, without further delay, all necessary measures to safeguard the safety and welfare of the crew, ensure the security of the vessel, and fully discharge all obligations incumbent upon you under the applicable contractual, statutory and international legal framework.

3. Given the urgency and seriousness of the situation, you are requested to provide, without delay, detailed information regarding the actions already taken and the measures envisaged to remedy the above-mentioned issues and ensure full compliance with the requirements of the MLC, 2006 as well as inform us promptly for your actions regarding the status of the vessel’s registration.

4. Without prejudice to any further action that may be taken by the competent authorities in accordance with applicable national and international legislation, including the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), you are hereby requested to take immediate corrective measures and to inform this Administration, without delay, of the specific actions undertaken to remedy the situation.

5. HYDOR AS, in its capacity as the financial security provider under Standard A2.5.2 of the MLC, 2006 is hereby requested to intervene immediately and take all appropriate measures required under the Convention in order to secure the protection, maintenance and repatriation of the affected seafarers, as well as the provision of all assistance and financial coverage mandated by the applicable regulatory framework.

6. We remain at your disposal should any further information or clarification be required.


1 June 2026: International Maritime Organisation
I would just like to inform you that the flag for both GISIS and Equasis is Unknown. I have heard from S&P that they queried Cameroon and so it should show as Cameroon FALSE from April 2026 but does not yet.

Furthermore, based on the available information, the vessel is a passenger/cruise ship as per GISIS and Equasis.


21 May 2026: Greece
Ministry Of Maritime Affairs And Insular Policy/
Hellenic Coast Guard/
Seafarer's Labour Directorate

Regarding the subject vessel, please be informed that following a PSC inspection by Karystos Coast Guard Authority on 20 May 2026 it was found a severe shortage of fuel, a critical lack of potable water and food supplies, as well as a substantial deterioration of the crew’s living conditions. Furthermore, the crew members wish to be repatriated under Regulation 2.5 of the MLC, 2006 while have not been paid contractual wages for over one month.
2. Flag State and the contractual P&I Club have been promptly informed for their actions.
3. Please find attached the abandonment report completed accordingly.
4. We remain at your disposal for any further information if needed.