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Sea Bridge Ferry Remains Off Sochi After Return Voyage Is Scrubbed

Regional authorities cite unresolved safety issues.

Overview

  • The Seabridge vessel left Trabzon on November 5 with 20 passengers and has now spent a second night near Sochi awaiting clearance.
  • The operator says the ship entered Russia’s internal waters and passed inspection, yet it still lacks final authorization to berth or depart.
  • Friday night’s planned return to Trabzon did not take place because the ferry cannot move to the outer roadstead without additional approval.
  • Krasnodar Krai officials maintain the launch is premature over security concerns, while the operator insists all permits are in order and the route is registered through 2027.
  • Passengers report they remain at sea as divers inspected the hull, and supplies are said to cover roughly 10 days as the company vows to continue service once allowed.