Overview
- The Seabridge waited off Sochi for several days without FSB authorization required by Presidential Decree No. 502, then returned to Turkey.
- Krasnodar regional and Sochi officials cited absent inspection capacity, border-control vulnerabilities, and road restrictions as grounds to oppose receiving the vessel.
- After the ferry’s return to Trabzon on November 9, passengers remained on board as local authorities indicated they could go ashore only without returning to the ship.
- The Russian consulate reported an agreement on November 10 for monetary compensation to each passenger, who plan to leave the vessel and arrange their own travel to Russia.
- The operator asserts port clearances were obtained and says the Sochi–Trabzon line is registered with the Transport Ministry through 2027, a contention at odds with local authorities.