The Portal Site for Ferries and Cruise Ships

Spyros Roussos & Tsuyoshi Ishiyama

Purchased by Skyros Shipping Co. in 2004 and renamed ACHILLEAS. In 2005, after her conversion into a day ferry at Perama, she entered service on the Kymi-Skyros route. (S.R.)

The Awaji plied between Nishinomiya and Tsuna, Awaji Island under Koshien Kosoku Ferry with her sister ships, the Shizuki (1985), the Naruo (1985) and the Ikuho (1985). The Awaji was sold to South Korea in 1998. (T.I.)

Sold in to Greek ferry operator, ANMEZ (Zante Ferries) in 2007. She was extensively rebuilt as a passenger ferry until 2008 and entered service on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini route. In 2009, transferred to the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos route and the Ios-Santorini route. Today, she plies on the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos route and the Kimolos-Folegandros-Sikinos-Ios-Santorini route. In the summer of 2015, repainted with a new livery. On September 14, 2019, she was introduced on the Alexandroupolis-Samothrace route.(S.R.)

Higashi Nihon Ferry's Visva ran on the Aomori-Hakodate route. Her sister ship was the Vena (1987). The Visva was sold to Kyushi Orange Ferry in 1999, and renamed Kyushu. She ran on the Yawatahama-Usuki route. In 2007, she was sold to Greece via Panama. (T.I.)

Sold to Efthymiades Line in 1966 in order to sail as a car ferry in the Aegean Sea and renamed AEOLIS. In 1968, entered service on the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route and in 1977, purchased by Cyprus-based Sol Maritime Services and renamed SOL PHRYNE. She served on the Piraeus-Rodos-Limassol-Haifa route. In 1979, transferred to the Piraeus-Tinos-Rodos-Limassol-Latakia route and in 1982, served on the Limassol-Beirut-Tunisia route. In 1988, made a historic voyage, as she was one of the ships that transported Yasser Arafat and the P.L.O. organization members from Palestine to Tunisia via Cyprus. In the same year, sent from Limassol to Bijela, Yugoslavia for service between Pula and Bar (ex-Yugoslavia). In 1991, sold to the Honduras-based Ben Hadji Choubaki Fouad and later that year, she sank, after an explosion took place, 15 nm south of Vis while sailing from Pula to Bar. The ship was carrying Yugoslavian troops and ammunition. (S.R.)

The Taisetsu Maru (I) was built as a train ferry for JNR (Japanese National Railways) at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Kobe shipyard in 1948. She was the 4th ship of the Toya Maru-class ship, and plied between Aomori and Hakodate with her sister ships, the Toya Maru (1947), the Yotei Maru (I) (1948) and the Mashu Maru (I) (1948). After the tragedy of the Toya Maru sank of 1954, she was refurbished to a large degree. In 1964, she was laid up, and sold in 1966. (T.I.)

Sold to Kerkyra Lines, Greece in 1999 and renamed AGIA THEODORA. She was extensively rebuilt into a passenger car ferry and entered service in 2000. She plies on the Igoumenitsa-Paxoi-Corfu route. (S.R.)

Awaji Ferryboat's Yukatsuru Maru plied between Suma (Kobe) and Oiso (Awaji Island). Her sister ships were the Chiezuru Maru (1990), the Miwatsuru Maru (1990), and the Fukitsuru Maru (1991). She was sold to Belize in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Epirus Line in 1977 as EPIRUS 5 for the Patra-Bari & the Igoumenitsa-Bari run. In 1981, transferred to the Rafina-Cyclades route. In 1986, purchased by Accorn Shipping Co. and renamed ANAX and ACCORN 1. In 1987, sold to Nomicos Lines and renamed THIRA II. Entered service on the Rafina-Cyclades-Chios route. From 1989 to 90, she was extensively rebuilt and renamed HELLAS EXPRESS. Entered service on the Rafina-Cyclades-Lemnos-Kavala-Thessaloniki route. In 1994, she was sold to Kerkyra Lines, renamed AGIOS SPYRIDON, and entered on the Corfu-Igoumenitsa route. In 2007, sold to Turkish AK-Bul Shipping Trading and renamed LIDER CLIPPER. She plied between Trabzon and Sochi. In 2011, sold for scrap at Aliaga (Turkey). (S.R.)

The Shirahama was built for Kobe-based Shinki Ferry at Oshima Dock in 1972. She ran on the Kobe-Kainan-Shirahama route with her sister ships, the Kishu (1972) and the Katsuura (1972). In 1977, she was sold to Cyprus. (T.I.)

Sold to Atlantic Shipping in 1988 and renamed C LINK. In 1989, purchased by Nomicos Lines and renamed ANEMOS. She was rebuilt at Perama as a passenger car ferry and in the summer of 1989, entered service on the Thessaloniki-Tinos-Mykonos-Paros-Santorini-Heraklion route. In the fall of 1996, served on the Piraeus-West Cyclades route and in 1997, transferred to the Piraeus-Syros-Tinos-Mykonos-Ikaria-Samos-Patmos route. In 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins and renamed EXPRESS ANEMOS and in 2000, she was transferred to the newly-established ANEN LINES and renamed MIRTIDIOTISSA. Then she plied on the Piraeus-Neapolis-Kythira-Antikythira-Kasteli-Gythion-Kythira- Antikythira-Kasteli-Kalamata-Kythira-Antikythira-Kasteli route. In the period of 2008-09, she was laid up at Neos Molos and Elefsis Bay and in 2010, chartered to Nel Lines and renamed AQUA MARIA. She entered service on the Lavrion-Ag. Eustratios-Lemnos-Kavala route in March 2011. She is laid up at Neos Molos Drapetsona since March 2014. In October 2015, transferred to Ambelakia, Salamina and in March 2016, passed again to ANEN LINES and renamed MIRTIDIOTISSA. Dry docked, changed livery and prepared for service on the Agios Konstantinos-Skiathos-Skopelos-Alonissos route. In January 2018, she was purchased by Kefalonian Lines for 0.6M euro, and renamed ALEXANDRA L. In June 2018, she entered service on the Zakynthos-Kyllini route. In November 2018, Kefalonian Lines suspended her operation in the Ionian Sea and she was laid up at the port of Argostoli (Kefalonia). In June 2019, she was chartered to the Cyprus-based Seajets. Undergoing refit at Perama. She is expected to be introduced in an inter-island service.(S.R.)

Muroto Kisen's Ferry Muroto was built at Kochi Juko in June 1975. She ran on the Kobe-Kannoura route from 1975 to 1982. She was chartered by Kansai Kisen and renamed Kurushima Maru in November 1982. She retired from the service in 1987, and sold to Honduras in 1990. (T.I.)

Sold to Aegean Carriers in December 2000 and renamed TONIA. In 2001, plied on the Chania-Lavrion-Thessaloniki route and in 2002, sold to ANMEZ and renamed ANDREAS KALVOS. From February to August 2003, she was converted into a passenger car ferry and entered service on the Zakynthos-Killini/Argostoli-Kyllini/Poros-Kyllini routes. After that, the ship plied on the Kyllini-Poros (Kefalonia) route and the Kyllini-Zakynthos route. In April 2015, her stern was rebuilt with sponsons. She entered service on the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos (Folegandros-Sikinos) route. In August 2017, she returned to the Zakynthos-Killini/Poros-Killini routes. On March 9, 2018, she was purchased by Kefalonian Lines for 6,5M Euro. But the purchase failed. In December 2018, she was purchased by Levante Ferries and arrived at Drapetsona for conversion. She was changed her livery and introduced on the Patras-Sami-Ithaka run on February 5, 2019. (S.R.)

The 'Dai-go Esan Maru (=Esan Maru No.5)' was a cargo ship of Hakodate-based Donan Jidosha Ferry. She plied between Aomori and Hakodate from 1985 to 2000. In December 2000, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES in 1984 and renamed CHANIA. Extensively rebuilt into a luxurious car passenger ferry and entered service on the Piraeus-Chania route as APTERA in 1987. In 1993, arrived at Perama for further rebuilding and in 1997, plied between Piraeus and Heraklion. In 1999, had further rebuilding and in 2001, transferred to the Piraeus-Rethimnon route. In October 2005, sold to South Korean Georim Shipping and plied between Dandong (China) and Incheon (S. Korea) as ORIENTAL PEARL III. In 2007, converted into a 500 passenger cruise ship and renamed MORNING SHINE. She served between Beihai (Guangxi province, China) and Ha Long bay (Vietnam). In 2011, sold for scrap to China. (S.R.)

Taiyo Ferry's Pegasus was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki shipyard in 1973. Shortly after her completion of construction, she was chartered by Nihon Enkai Ferry. In July 1973, she was returned to Taiyo Ferry, and entered service on the Osaka-Kanda route. In March 1977, she was laid up and sold to Kyushu Kyuko Ferry. In May 1977, she began to run on the Tokyo-Kanda route. She was sold to Greece in January 1985. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES in 1991 and renamed KYDON. She had a minor rebuild and entered service on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Trieste route in the same year. In 1995, she was extensively rebuilt at Perama, renamed TALOS and served on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Trieste route. In 1999, transferred to LANE LINES and renamed IERAPETRA L. Then she plied on the Pireaus-Milos-Santorini-Sitia-Agios Nikolaos-Kastelorizo-Kassos-Karpathos-Rodos route. In 2009, served on the Thessaloniki-Lemnos-Mytilene-Chios-Samos route and later that year, chartered to ANEK LINES for service on the Piraeus-Milos-Thira-Heraklion-Sitia-Kasos-Karpathos-Rodos route. In 2012, transferred to the Piraeus-Syros-Eudylos-Ag. Kirikos-Fournoi-Karlovasi-Vathi route. She was chartered for the summer season on the Bari-Durres route. In 2014, she was deployed an international route between Bari and Durres in charter from ANEK Italia for a year-round service. On November 29, 2014, a fire broke out in her engine room when she was underway with crews only. She was forced to return to the port of Brindisi. After a two year laid up at Perama, she was sold to Iera Maritime (Seajets) in December 2016. In 2017, she was renamed KIARA. There were plans to be used as a stationary ship for migrants in Lesvos island. In July 2017, she enterd a dry dock at a repair zone in Perama and prepared for action. In November 2017, she was renamed AQUA BLUE. On June 29, 2018, she entered service on the Thessaloniki-Skiathos-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos-Paros-Naxos-Santorini-Heraklion (Crete) route. In April 2019, she entered service on the Rafina-Tinos-Mykonos-Naxos route for a short period. On March 8, 2020, she was introduced on the Lavrion-Lemnos-Agios Efstratios-Kavala line. (S.R.)

Hiroshima Green Ferry's Green Arch was built at Kanda Zosensho (Shipbuilding) in 1975, and ran on the Hiroshima-Osaka route. She was sold to Kurushima Kosan, and renamed Okudogo 8 in 1982. 'Oku-Dogo (=back-Dogo)' is a resort that was developed & operated by Kurushima Dockyard. She was chartered by Diamond Ferry in December 1982 and ran on the Oita-Matsuyama-Kobe route. She was sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to Hellenic Seaways, Greece in November 2006 and renamed ARIADNE. From February to August 2007, she was rebuilt at Perama and entered service on the Piraeus-Chania route. In January 2008, chartered to Minoan Lines and transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Venice route. In April 2008, chartered to ANEK LINES and in the summer season of 2009, she was chartered to Algerie Ferries for their Marseille-Oran, Oran-Alicante and Marseille-Alger run. In the winter season of 2009, she was transferred to the Piraeus-Heraklion and the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. In the summer season of 2010-2012, chartered again to Algerie Ferries for their Marseille-Oran, Oran-Alicante and Marseille-Alger run. From October to November 2012, she had a short charter to a Turkish operator for service between Iskenderun (Turkey) and Alexandria (Egypt) . And then, she plied on the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. From October 2017 to February 2018, she was chartered by the Italian GNV for service at Genoa-La Goulette (Tunisia) run. From May 2018 to November 2020, she will be chartered again by the Italian TIRRENIA for the Napoli-Cagliari-Palermo run. (S.R.)

Kyuetsu Ferry's Rainbow Bell entered service on the Naoetsu-Hakata (Fukuoka) route in April 1996. In 2001, she was laid up. In March 2004, she was sold to Marine Express, and renamed Ferry Himuka. In October 2004, she was transfered to Miyazaki Car Ferry, and ran on the Hannan (Kaizuka)-Miyazaki/Hyuga route. In April 2006, she was laid up, and sold to Greece in November 2006. (T.I.)

In 1988, sold to Cretan Ferries, renamed ARKADI and in 1989, entered service on the Piraeus-Rethimnon route. In 2000, transferred to ANEK LINES, after Cretan Ferries merger with Anek and in 2002, sold to the Arab Bridge Maritime for service on the Aqaba-Nuweiba route. Renamed PELLA. In 2011, destroyed by fire and sunk off the coast of Aqaba. (S.R.)

The Bizan Maru plied between Osaka and Komatsushima under Kyodo Kisen. She was sold to Greece in 1988. (T.I.)

In 2011, she was sold to China-based WANFANG INTERNATIONAL SHIPMANAGEMENT (Grand Shipping Line) and renamed GRAND SPRING. She plied between Weihai (China) and Pyeongtaek (South Korea). And then, she was laid up at the port of Weihai. A South Korean ferry company, GWANGYANG LINE planed to open the Gwangyang (S. Korea)-Shimonoseki (Japan) route with the GRAND SPRING in 2016, but failed. In April 2018, she was sold to ANEK LINES for $8.5M and renamed ASTERION II. She arrived at Greece at the end of April, 2018. On June 28, 2018, she entered service at the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Venice run (S.R.)

The Ishikari (II) took the water at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Kobe Shipyard on November 8, 1990, and was completed in March 1991. She entered service on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route in the same month. The theme of her interior decorating was "Caribbean Winds". She was one of the most luxury car ferries in Japan. On March 9, 2011, she retired and was replaced with the Ishikari (III). (T.I.)

Sold to Aegean Cargo in January 2008, and renamed AEGEAN HEAVEN. In July of the same year, chartered to Spanish Acciona Transmediterranea for service on the Cadiz-Las Palmas-Tenerife route. In 2010, the ship returned to Greece and was laid up at Drapetsona waiting for a new charter. In 2011, laid up at Elefsis bay. After a 4 year laid up, the smashing AEGEAN HEAVEN was chartered to the Turkish ECOL logistics in July 2014. Refurbished, changed livery and renamed AYSHE. Her maiden voyage on Spain line (Constantinople-Barcelona) took place on August 30, 2014 and the ship broke new ground in this line as she connects the two ports in just 58 hours! On May 26, 2019, she returned back to Perama and laid up as her charter contract to the Turkish ECOL ended. Her future remains uncertain.(S.R.)

The Sunflower Tomakomai was a fast freight ferry of Blue Highway Line. She entered service on the Tokyo-Tomakomai route in August 1999. She was laid up in March 2007, and sold to Greece in 2008. (T.I.)

She was sold to ANEK LINES in 1999 and renamed KRITI V. In 2000, she was converted into a luxurious ro-pax ferry and renamed LEFKA ORI for the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Trieste route. In 2005, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route. In 2012, chartered (bareboat) to South Korea-based Jeju Cruise Line for the Shanghai (China)-Jeju island (South Korea)-Moji (Japan) route. Renamed ANTONIO L. The option was to be purchased by the Korean operator but plans fell through and the ship laid up at Busan for over a year. In 2013 the ship returned back to Greece and laid up at Perama. In October 2014 she was purchased by a French bank, Natixis and in April 2015 she was chartered (bareboat) to Blue Star Ferries and renamed BLUE GALAXY. In April 24 2015 the ship entered service at Piraeus-Chania run. In April 2020, she was replaced by the NISSOS RODOS on the Piraeus-Chania line for at least 1.5 months due to the Covid-19.(S.R.)

The 'Haakyuri (=Herlules)' was a sister ship of 'Herumesu (=Hermes).' The Higashi Nihon Ferry's vessel ran on the Muroran-Naoetsu route and the Iwanai-Naoetsu route. In 1999, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Lines in August 1998 and renamed SUPERFERRY HELLAS. She was converted into a luxurious ro-pax ferry at Perama and in 1999, entered service on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice/Ancona route. In 2000, registered to Blue Star Ferries and renamed BLUE HORIZON and in 2003, plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Bari route. In 2009, served on the Piraeus-Kos-Rodos route and in 2010, transferred to the Piraeus-Chania route. In 2013, reactivated on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Bari route. Today, she plies between Piraeus and Heraklion with her running mate, KRITI I (ex-New Suzuran, 1979) of ANEK LINES. On April 14, 2020, she was replaced by the KRITI II on the Piraeus-Heraklion line for at least 1.5 months due to the Covid-19.(S.R.)

Higashi Nihon Ferry's Varuna (II) replaced the Varuna (I) (ex-Daisetsu, 1976) in July 1987. She entered service on the Muroran-Oarai route. In 1989, she was transferred to the Tomakomai-Sendai route. She was sold to Greece in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES in 1972 and renamed CANDIA. After a small scale conversion, she entered service on the Piraeus-Heraklion route and the Piraeus-Chania route. In 1999, chartered to DANE SEA LINES and sailed on the Piraeus-Patmos-Leros-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos route and in 2000, transferred to the Piraeus-Ios-Santorini route. In 2001, sold to Dubai-based Naif Marine Services and renamed JABAL ALI 3. Service between Port Rahsid and Umm Qasr. In 2008, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The 'Dai-ni Central (=Central No.2) ' was built for Central Ferry at Sumitomo Heavy Industries Uraga shipyard in 1971. She began to ply between Kawasaki and Kobe, but ceased the operation in February 1972. Short-lived Central Ferry went into liquidation, and sold her to Greece in the same year. (T.I.)

In 1989, sold to Minoan Lines and renamed DAEDALUS. In 1991, she entered service on the Patra-Igoumenista-Corfu-Ancona route and in 2002, plied on the Thessaloniki-Cyclades (Tinos-Mykonos-Paros-Naxos-Santorini)-Heraklion route. In 2005, sold to Panama-based Adria Ferries and renamed RIVIERA ADRIATICA. She entered service on the Ancona-Durres and Bari-Durres route. In 2006, chartered to Algerie Ferries for their Marseille/Alicante-Alger run and in 2012, renamed AF CLAUDIA PRIMA. In May 2016, she was sold to ATLANTIC BLUE SEAWAYS and was renamed CARIBBEAN GALAXY. There were plans to enter service on the Genoa-Barcelona-Tangier route, however the plans fell through in July 2016. Laid up at Perama. In December 2018, she was sold for scrap to Turkey. On December 18, 2018, she was beached at Aliaga for dismantling. (S.R.)

Taiyo Ferry's Orion was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shinomoseki Shipyard in 1973. She connected Osaka with Kanda. In March 1977, she was laid up. From February to March 1978, she was chartered by Fuji Ferry. In December 1980, she was transferred to Kansai Kisen and renamed Ferry Nishiki Maru, which plied between Osaka/Kobe and Beppu. In December 1984, she was transferred to Meimon Taiyo Ferry, and renamed Orion again. She ran on the Osaka-Shin Moji route. In March 1989, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Panama-based Norway Investments in February 2006 and renamed ALKIONI. She was due to enter service on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos-Paros route but never took permission from the Ministry of Mercantile Marine. In July 2006, chartered to the Danish Government for a rescue mission between Beirut and Larnaca. In April 2007, chartered to Egypt-based Namma Lines and sailed on the Safaga-Dhebba route under the name SHIKRA. In 2010, chartered to My Ferries and renamed MYCAT 1. The plans were to enter service on the Rafina-Syros-Paros-Naxos route. In July 2010, re-chartered to Nel Lines for service on the Thessaloniki-Alonissos-Skopelos-Skiathos-Volos route and renamed ALKIONI. On June 26, 2019, she was purchased by a Cyprus-based Plaxiven Consulting Ltd. and renamed CAT 1. Currently, she is under a major repair and upgrades in order to operate somewhere in Greece. (S.R.)

The Hayabusa was built for Kyushi Ferryboat (Kyushi Orange Ferry) at Kawasaki Heavy Industries Kobe shipyard in 1994. She ran on the Yawatahama-Usuki route at a speed of 26 knots. She was sold to Panama in 2006. (T.I.)

Sold to Epirus Line in 1977 and renamed CHRISSI AVGI. Converted into a passenger car ferry and sailed on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Paros-Naxos route. In February 1983, capsized and sunk during a sea storm 4 nm from Mandili cape (Aegean Sea). She was carrying 47 passengers, 4 trucks and 9 tankers. The death toll was 26 people. (S.R.)

The Hayabusa was built as a freight ferry for Kyoei Unyu at Yoshiura Zosen in 1970. She ran on the Hakodate-Aomori route. She was sold to Greece in 1977. (T.I.)

In 2007, sold to Avra Shipping SA and renamed SHUTTLE. In 2010, chartered to Nel Lines for service on the Lavrion-Kos-Rodos and Chios-Mytilene route. From September 2010 to October 2010, she was chartered to the Egyptian Army for the Jeddah-Alexandria run and in November 2010, transferred to the Corinth-Ancona run. In 2012, chartered to SC Line (Caribbean) for the Colombia-Trinidad & Tobago route. In January 2013, she was seen at Cape Town (Duncan Dock) and in the end of 2013, she left the South African port for Namimbia and Mumbai (India). In November 2013, she was beached at Mumbai port and probably dismantled. (S.R.)

The Oarai Maru was built for Nihon Enkai Ferry at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki Shipyard in 1987. She went into service in June 1987, and plied between Oarai and Tomakomai. In 1990, she was renamed Sunflower Oarai. In 2002, she was sold to Panama, and renamed Ferry Cosmo 3. In April 2004, Shuttle Highway Line, a newly-established Japanese ferry company bought her, and renamed Shuttle Oita. She entered service on the Oita-Kurihama (Yokosuka) route on April 17. In September 2007, Shuttle Highway Line became bankrupt, and the route was closed. She was laid up. (T.I.)

Sold to Greek G.A. FERRIES in October 1988 en block with her sister FERRY GOLD. In December 1988, arrived at Perama for extensive conversion into a luxury passenger car ferry and renamed DALIANA. In May 1989, entered service on the Piraeus-Syros-Mykonos-Naxos-Paros route and in 1990, had one more refit plus new engines. From 1990 to 1998, plied on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini-Heraklion-Karpathos-Rodos route. In 2005, transferred to the Patras-Kefalonia-Zakythos-Brindisi route and in the summer season of 2006, served on the Patra-Kefalonia-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi route. In 2007, transferred to the Pireaus-Syros-Mykonos-Paros-Ikaria-Samos route and in 2008, plied on the Piraeus-Patmos-Lipsoi-Kalymnos-Kos-Symi-Rodos route. Finally in 2009, served on the Agios- Konstantinos-Skiathos-Skopelos-Alonissos route. She was laid up at Piraeus port from September 2009 to September 2011, due to her operator's bankruptcy. Sold for scrap and went to Aliaga (Turkey) for dismantling in September 2011. (S.R.)

Diamond Ferry's Ferry Pearl ran on the Kobe-Matsuyama-Oita route. Her sister ship was Ferry Gold (1970). She was extended 11.9 meters in 1980. In 1986, she retired from the service. Sold to Greece in 1988. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Marlines in 1991. In 1994, after heavily rebuilt as a cruise ferry, she entered service on the Patras-Ancona route as DAME M. In 1995, transferred to the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Ancona route. In the summer seasons of 1996-1999, she was chartered to COTUNAV for service on the Tunis-Genoa and the Tunis-Marseille route. In December 1999, sold to Cypriot Salamis Line, renamed SALAMIS STAR and plied on the Piraeus-Limassol-Haifa route. From 2002 to 2008, the ship chartered to the Tunisian COMANAV as MARRAKESH EXPRESS servicing on the Tunisia-Sete/Genoa route. In 2008, sold to COMANAV. In April 2010, renamed BNI ANSAR and entered service on the Genua-Tanger route replacing the BERKANE of COMARIT. Later she entered the Sete-Nador line but facing a series of mechanical problems and delays. She was laid up at Sete in 2012 as her operators went bankrupt and in 2014, sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey) as SAR. (S.R.)

The Ferry Akashi was built for Hankyu Ferry in 1972, and ran on the Kobe-Kokura route. In March 1991, she was sold to Cyprus. (T.I.)

Sold to Dodekanissos Seaways in August 2000 and renamed PANAGIA SKIADENI. In September 2000, purchased by D.A.N.E. Sea Lines and renamed LINDOS. In 2001, converted into a luxurious cruise ferry for service on the Piraeus-Patmos-Leros-Kos-Rodos route. In 2004, her operator went out of business and the ship was laid up at Piraeus. In July 2006, sold by auction to Blue Star Ferries and a month later, she entered service on the Pireaus-Astypalea-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos route. The DIAGORAS serves on the Piraeus-Astypalea-Patmos-Lipsoi-Leros-Kalymnos-Kos-Nisyros-Tilos-Symi-Rodos-Kastelorizo route. In May 2016, she was chartered by a newly-established African Morocco Link for a service between Algeciras and Tangier. In October 2017, she was decided to transfer to the Almeria (Spain)-Nador (Morocco) route. On December 30, 2017, returned to Greece and laid up at Perama. In June 2018, she turned out Blue Star Ferries livery again and entered service at the Piraeus-Patmos-Ag. Kyrikos-Fournoi-Vathi-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Kavala run. From the mid-March 2020 to May 2020, she ran on the Piraeus-Dodecanese route and then she will return back to her original itinerary. (S.R.)

The New Tosa plied between Osaka and Kochi under Osaka-Kochi Tokkyu Ferry from 1990 to 2000. 'Tosa' is an old name for Kochi. She was sold to Greece in 2000. Her sister ship, New Katsura (1981) was sold to the Philippines in 2006. (T.I.)

Sold to ANMEZ (Zante Ferries) in May 1999 and renamed DIONISIOS SOLOMOS. Converted into a passenger car ferry at Perama and entered service on the Zakynthos-Kyllini route, the Argostoli-Killini route, and the Poros-Killini route in January 2000. She plied with IONIAN STAR (ex-Niihama 2, 1984) on the Kyllini-Zakynthos route. On August 1, 2015, transferred to the Patras-Kefalonia-Ithaka route. In August 2017, she was fully refurbished, and entered service on the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos route. (S.R.)

The Royal Kawanoe was operated by Shikoku Chuo Ferryboat, and ran on the Niihama-Kawanoe-Kobe route with her sister ship, Royal Niihama (1990) from 1990 to 1998. The route was closed in 1998, and she was sold to Greece in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to Ionian Fast Ferries in 1999 and renamed EKATERINI P. From 1999 to 2000, she was converted into a passenger car ferry and plied between Igoumenitsa and Corfu. In 2012, her bow was remodeled and she was transferred to the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos-Naxos route. Today, she serves with her running mate, THEOLOGOS P. (ex-Ferry Kochi, 2000) on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos line. From April 23, 2016, she runs on the Rafina-Tinos-Mykonos-Naxos route. In April 2019, she was suffered a severe engine failure and laid up. She was having her main engines changed with MAK-Caterpillar and was expected to be introduced on the Rafina-Tinos-Mykonos-Paros-Naxos run in the summer of 2020. However, she will remain laid up for the summer season of 2020 due to the Covid-19.(S.R.)

The Rokko Maru and her siter ship, Ikoma Maru (1990) ran on the Kobe-Takamatsu route under Kansai Kisen. She was sold to Greece in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to Heraklion-based MINOAN LINES in 1979 and renamed EL GRECO. Converted into a luxurious cruise ferry and in 1981, entered service on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route. In 1995, had a second refit at Perama and sailed on the Patra-Venice route and in 1996, transferred to the Thessaloniki-Skiathos-Syros-Tinos-Paros-Naxos-Santorini-Heraklion route. In 2002, purchased by Italy-based Maritime Way for service at Igoumenitsa and on the Corfu-Brindisi or the Patras-Brindisi or the Kefalonia-Brindisi route. In 2004, sold to Panama-based Mercury Faith S.A. and renamed CAPTAIN ZAMAN. Sailed between Brinidisi and Cesme. In 2007, chartered to Algerian-based CNAN (Mahreb Lines) and plied between Alger and Barcelona/Marseille and in 2008, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The Ferry Atsuta was built for Meimon Car Ferry at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki shipyard in 1972. She ran on the Nagoya-Yokkaichi-Shin Moji route with her sister ship, Ferry Kashii (1972). In April 1976, the route was closed and she was laid up. Sold to Greece in 1979. (T.I.)

Sold to Cretan ANEK LINES in 2007 and renamed ELYROS. Extensively rebuild into a luxurious cruise ferry at Perama, she became ANEK LINE’s flagship on the Piraeus-Chania route since September 2008. In August 2014, participated in a rescue mission in Lybia with her running mate, LATO. From June to September 2015, chartered to Algerie Ferries on the Marseille-Oran route. In November 2015, returned to the Piraeus-Chania route. From June 26, 2016 to September 30, 2016, she was chartered again by Algerie Ferries for the summer season. Service between Marselle and Oran. In October 2016, returned to the Piraeus-Chania (Crete) route. From June 26, 2017 to September 30, 2017, she was chartered again to Algerie Ferries, and entered service on the Marseille (France)-Oran (Algeria) route. In October 2017, she returned back to the Piraeus-Chania route. From May 5, 2018 to September 2018, she was chartered again to Algerie Ferries for their Marseille-Oran route. She is chartered again to Algerie Ferries for the Marseille-Oran run from June 2019 to September 2019. In October 2019, her charter to Algerie Ferries expired and she returned back to the Piraeus-Chania route. In March 2020, she halted service on the Piraeus-Chania route due to the Covid-19 and was laid up at Souda port until May 31, 2020. (S.R.)

The Blue Highway Line's Sunflower Tsukuba ran on the Tomakomai-Oarai route, but she was transferred to Higashi Nihon Ferry in January 2007, renamed Ferry Tsukuba and laid up at Muroran. In July 2007, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Lines in 1990 and renamed IONIAN SEA. In 1991, resold to Minoan Lines and renamed EROTOKRITOS. She was rebuilt at Perama between 1991 and 92, and entered service on the Patra-Ancona route in the same year. In 1997, transferred to the Patra-Igoumentitsa-Corfu-Venice route and in 1999, purchased by Minoan Flying Dolphins. In 2002, chartered to Maritime Way for service on the Monfalcone-Bari-Igoumenitsa-Patras route and in 2003, transferred to the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi route. In 2004, purchased by Maritime Way and in 2006, sold to Endeavor Lines and renamed EROTOKRITOS T. In 2007, she plied on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi route. Sold for scrap at Alang (India) in October 2010. Renamed KRITOS when left Greece. (S.R.)

Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry's Ishikari (I) ran on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route from 1974 to 1990. In 1980, she was extended 12.5 meters. In 1982, she was transferred to Taiheiyo Ferry. Sold to Greece in 1990. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Epirus Line in 1976 renamed EPIRUS 3. Sailed between Patra and Bari. In 1982, laid up at Perama and in 1985, sold to Italy-based Fast Ferries and renamed CORSICA MIRA. She entered service on the Genoa-Corsica route. In 1987, purchased by Agostino Lauro, renamed ANNA MARIA LAURO and plied between Napoli and Palau. In 1991, transferred to the Trapani-Tunisia route and in 2002, chartered to Traghetti Pozzuoli for service on the Pozzuoli-Ischia route. In 2003, renamed ANNA MARIA D' ABUNDO and in 2007, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The 'Dai-ichi Hayabusa (=Hayabusa No.1)' was built for Koshien Kosoku Ferry at Taguma Zosen in 1971. She plied between Nishinomiya and Tsuna, Awaji Island. Sold to Cyprus in 1976. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Epirus Line in 1977 and renamed EPIRUS 4. Served on the Patra-Bari and the Igoumenitsa-Bari route. In 1982, renamed PEACE PIONEER in order to serve on the Egypt-Israel route, but the plan failed. In 1983, chartered to Adrion Express Ferries and plied between Igoumenitsa and Brindisi for the summer season. Later that year, purchased by Iran-based Valfajre-8 Shipping Co. and renamed IRAN HORMUZ 1. In 2001, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The Katsuura was built for Shinki Ferry at Oshima Dock in 1972. She ran on the Kobe-Kainan-Shirahama route with her sister ships, Shirahama (1972) and Kishu (1972). Shinki Ferry was out of business, and the route was closed in 1975. Sold to Cyprus. (T.I.)

On January 12, 2020, she arrived at the port of Amaliapolis and led to Kouris Shipyards for conversion. (S.R.)

The Ferry Mishima (271gt）was completed at Mukai Zosensho in February 1995. Under Sasebo-based Sakito Shosen, she entered service on the Tomosumi-Hirashima-Enoshima-Sakito-Sasebo route. On June 11, 2019, she was replaced by the Mishima (194gt).(T.I.)

Sold to Marmari Shipping in September 2000, and renamed EVIA STAR. In 2001, she was converted into a passenger car ferry and plied between Rafina and Marmari/Karistos. In 2010, refurbished and put sponsons and in October 2011, laid up at Marmari. From April 2012 till today, she plies between Rafina and Marmari. (S.R.)

The 'San-go Hayabusa (=Hayabusa No.3)' was built as a freight ferry for Kyoei Unyu at Hakodate Dock in 1980. Her sister ship was Hayabusa (1977). She plied between Hakodate and Aomori. Sold to Greece in 2001. (T.I.)

In September 1999, sold to Cyprus-based Access Ferries as HO MARU. In 2000, entered service on the Piraeus-Limassol-Haifa route and renamed MILLENIUM EXPRESS. In the same year, chartered to Tunisian COTUNAV for the Genova/Marseille-La Goulette route. In 2001, chartered to Puerto Rico-based Ferries Del Caribe and operated on the Santo Domingo-Mayagues route. In 2003, transferred to the Brindisi-Cesme route and in 2004 and 2006, chartered to Algeria-based CNAN for service on the Oran-Barcelona/Marseille route. In 2007, renamed EUROPEAN EXPRESS and chartered once more to Algerie Ferries for the Frankrike-Algeria route. In 2008, chartered to COMANAV for the summer season and plied between Sete and Nador. In March 2010, chartered to Nel Lines for service on the Chios-Mytilene route. The EUROPEAN EXPRESS ran on the Piraeus-Syros-Ikaria-Fournoi -Samos route. On November 13, 2014, her charter to Nel Lines came to an end. Laid up at Drapetosona. In August 2016, she was transferred to a repair zone in Perama and has been laid up since then. In November 2018, she was finally sold to the Enviromental Protection Engineering (EPE) and removed from Perama (MEDRA yards).In January 2019, she was sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey). Renamed EXPRESS. (S.R.)

Nippon Car Ferry's Takachiho Maru ran on the Kawasaki-Hyuga route from 1974 to 1993. In 1990, she was transferred to Seacom Ferry. The Seacom Ferry changed its trade name to Marine Express in 1992. She was transferred to the Osaka-Miyazaki route in 1993, and then, the Kobe-Hyuga route in 1996. She was sold to Cyprus in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to Epirus Line in 1977 and renamed ARGO. There were plans to ply between Volos and Syria, but fell through. In 1978, sold to ANEK LINES and renamed KRITI. Converted into a passenger car ferry and sailed on the Piraeus-Chania/Heraklion route. In 1994, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Bari route. In 1996, sold to Agapitos Lines and renamed SUPERNAIAS. Sailed on the Piraeus-Syros-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini-Anafi line. In 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins and renamed EXPRESS ARIS. In 2000, plied on the Piraeus-Cyclades and Brindisi-Corfu-Igoumenitsa route. In 2001, transferred to the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini-Anafi route. In 2002, registered to Hellas Flying Dolphins and laid-up at Lavrio and Elefsis bay. In 2004, sold for scrap to Alang (India). (S.R.)

Hiroshima Green Ferry's Green Arrow plied between Hiroshima and Osaka. Sold to Greece in November 1977. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Ferries, Greece in 2003 and renamed EPTANISSOS. She was rebuilt at Perama from March to August 2003 and plied on the Killini-Simi (Kefalonia) route and the Patras-Kefalonia route. In October 2012, Strintzis Ferries went out of business and the ship was laid up. In April 2015, she was sold to Fast Ferries and renamed FAST FERRIES ANDROS. Her exterior and interior were fully refurbished. The new operator also installed her stabilizers from Mitsubishi. On August 5 2015, she entered service on the Rafina-Syros-Tinos-Mykonos route and the Rafina-Tinos-Mykonos route. On September 9 2015, entered service at Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos run. From September 2017 to January 15, 2018, she was chartered by Blue Star Ferries for service on the Piraeus-Syros-Tinos-Mykonos route. On January 17, 2018, she returned back to the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos route.(S.R.)

The Shinko Maru was built at Fukuoka Zosen in 1989, and plied between Kobe and Takamatsu under Nippon Kaiun. 'Shinko' means 'Kobe (Shin) - Takamatsu (Ko)' in this case. She was sold to Taiwan in 2000. (T.I.)

In September 2018, she was purchased by Cyprus-based A-Ship Management (Arkoumanis). On October 30, 2018, she was delivered and renamed GOLDEN BRIDGE. On November 26, 2018, she arrived at Perama (NAFSI) for conversion. In April 2019, she was chartered to the Spanish FRS IBERIA for the Motril-Melilla line. On January 9, 2020, her charter to FRS expired and returned back to Greece. Since the end of January, she has been laid up at the port of Katakolon.(S.R.)

Kinkai Yusen Kaisha (KYK Line)'s Sabrina was completed on May 8, 1990 at Kanda Shipbuilding Kawajiri shipyard. Entered service on the Kushiro-Tokyo route on May 17, 1990. She was named after "Sabrina", a Hollywood movie of 1954. Her sister ship was the Blue Zephyr. From 1994, she also called at the port of Tokachi. On November 13, 1999, she terminated the operation, and the services on the route were switched over to RORO vessels. In 1999, she was sold to Weidong Ferry, a South Korean operator, and renamed New Golden Bridge II, She plied between Inchon, S. Korea and Weihai, China. (T.I.)

Sold to Epirotiki Cruise Lines in 1991 and renamed APOLLON. She was converted into a cruise ship before entering service in the Aegean Islands. In 1995, purchased by Minoan Lines and renamed PRINCE. After an extensive refit, registered to Minoan Cruises S.A., a subsidiary of Minoan Lines and renamed MINOAN PRINCE. She continued cruising between Heraklion and Santorini. In 2001, laid up at Elefsis bay and in 2002, sold to Golden Princess and renamed GOLDEN PRINCE. In 2010, she was laid up at Perama. Sold for scrap in April 2014 after 4 years laid up at Heraklion port. She was dismantled at Aliaga, Turkey. (S.R.)

Kansai Kisen's Wakashio Maru was built as a ro-ro vessel at Usuki Tekkosho in 1973, and ran on the Osaka-Kobe-Naze (Amami Island)-Naha (Okinawa Island) route from 1973 to 1978. In 1979, she was converted into a cruise ship, Sunflower 7. Sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Marlines in April 1991 and renamed GRACE M. She was about to be converted into a luxurious cruise ferry for the Patra-Ancona route but the plans fell through, and the ship remained laid up at Elefsis bay for over ten years. In 1998, renamed FELICIA and in 2003, sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey). (S.R.)

Ferry Nagato was built at Kanda Zosensho (Shipbuilding) in 1972. She ran on the Kobe-Kokura route under Hankyu Ferry. Sold to Cyprus in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to Express Seatrailer, Greece in 1999 and renamed CIELOTRAILER. She plied on the Corinth-Porto Marghera route. In August 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins, and in 2005, transferred to Hellenic Seaways fleet and renamed CIELO TRAILER. In November 2007, she was renamed HELLENIC CARRIER. Sold for scrap to Alang (India) in April 2010. (S.R.)

The Tokyo Maru was a ro-ro vessel which was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki Shipyard in 1976. Both Nihon Enkai Ferry and Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen (K Line Kinkai) operated her on the Tokyo-Tomakomai route. Her sister ship was the Tomakomai Maru (1975). In 1999 when the Hokkaido Maru entered service, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Express Seatrailer, Greece in 1999 and renamed NAVETRAILER. She plied on the Corinth-Porto Marghera route with her sister, CIELOTRAILER. In August 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins, and in 2005, transferred to Hellenic Seaways fleet and renamed NAVE TRAILER. In January 2008, renamed HELLENIC TRADER. In March 2009, laid up at Neos Molos Drapetsona and later transferred to Elefsis bay. From December 2009 to July 2013, she plied between Corinth and Venice. It August 2009, laid up at Perama. Sold for scrap to Alang (India) in December 2013 and renamed TRADER I. (S.R.)

The Tomakomai Maru was a ro-ro vessel which was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki Shipyard in 1975. Both Nihon Enkai Ferry and Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen (K Line Kinkai) operated her on the Tokyo-Tomakomai route. Her sister ship was the Tokyo Maru (1976). In 1999 when the Sunflower Tomakomai entered service, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

On March 3, 2020, she arrived at Piraeus from Mizushima, Japan and was transferred to Neos Molos (Drapetsona). (S.R.)

The Ferry Tsurugi was completed at Usuki Shipyard in July 1997. Under Nankai Ferry, she entered service on the Wakayama-Komatsushima route. In April 1999, she was transfered to newly founded Rinkuu Ferry, and plied between Izumisano and Tokushima with her sister ship, Ferry Katsuragi. However, on October 1, 1999, Rinkuu Ferry was out of business. She returned back to Nankai Ferry with the Ferry Katsuragi, and entered service on the Wakayama-Tokushima route. She was replaced by the Ferry I, and retired on December 15, 2019. (T.I.)

Sold to Greenseas Shipping Co. Ltd. in 1990 and renamed VIGNESSWARA. In 1995, purchased by Sunbeam Navigation and renamed DIGNITY. In 1996, registered to Tyme Navigation (Arkoumanis N.) and operated by European Seaways on the Brindisi-Igoumenitsa-Cesme route. In 1998, chartered to Libyan General National Co. for service between Valletta and Libya. In the same year, sold to Roussan Shipping, Panama and renamed IGNIS. In 1999, sold to Ionisus Maritime, renamed IONIS and plied on the Brindisi-Corfu-Igoumenitsa route on behalf of European Seaways. In 2001, she was chartered to Ventouris Ferries for service between Bari and Durres. She served on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Bari & the Kefalonia-Zakynthos route in summer seasons. She was laid up at Bari port (Italy) in 2012. Next year, she ran on the Bari-Corfu/Cephalonia/Zante routes on behalf of European Seaways and on September 9, 2013, laid up at Bari again. From April to June 2014 she was chartered by Traghetti Della Isole for service between Trapani and Pantelleria. Renamed HORIZON. From July to September 2014, she was chartered by European Seaways, and entered service on the Bari-Corfu-Igoumenitsa/Bari-Kefalonia/Zante routes. In September 2015, she was re-chartered by Traghetti Della Isole for service between Trapani and Pantelleria, In 2015, she was sold to a Turkish company, Pelican Denizcilik San Tic, Ltd. Today, she is stationed at Haifa (Israel). (S.R.)

The Ferry Naniwa plied between Osaka and Kochi under Osaka-Kochi Tokkyu Ferry. Her sister ship was the Ferry Katsura (1971). She was sold to Singapore in 1990. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Adriatic Ferries and renamed SUN BOAT. In 1986, rebuilt as a passenger car ferry and sailed between Patra and Brindisi as ARIANE I. In 1987, operated by EUROFERRIES and served on the Patra-Brindisi route and in 1988, chartered to Hellenic Cypriot Mediterranean Lines for service on the Patra-Brindisi-Trieste route. In the next season, chartered to Tirrenia Navigazione for their Livorno-Porto Torres route and at the end of 1988, sold to Falcon Maritime Co. and renamed IERAPETRA. Sailed on the Piraeus-Sitia route. In June 1990, purchased by Mediterranean Lines and renamed RAFFAELLO. She entered service on the Patra-Brindisi route. In 1994, sold to Malta-based Laird Maritime, renamed BRINDISI and plied on the Bari-Igoumenitsa-Cesme route under Stern Maritime Lines' operation. In 1995, registered at Vergina Ferries for service on the Brindisi-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Patra route. In 1999, sold at an auction to Starlight Ferries and renamed ATHINA I and in 2002, purchased by Five Star Lines and renamed PALLADA. She entered service between Constantinople and Odessa. In 2003, sold to Ukrainian Vival Marine Shipping Company and continued plying on the same route and in 2007, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The Ferry Hankyu was the first Japanese long haul car ferry. She was built for Hankyu Ferry, a pioneer of Japanese car ferries at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki shipyard in 1968. She entered service on the Kobe-Kokura route on August 10, 1968. She was used as a spare ship from 1976 when the 'Dai-nijuyon Hanyu (=Hakyu No.24)' entered service. Sold to Cyprus in 1986. (T.I.)

Purchased by Strintzis Lines in 1987 and renamed IONIAN GALAXY. Before entered service on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route in 1988, she was extensively rebuilt into a luxurious cruise ferry. She was then the biggest ferry of the Greek ferry scene. In 1995, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route. In 1998, chartered to Libya-based General National Maritime Transport and in 1999, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route. In 2000, registered to Blue Star Ferries as BLUE GALAXY and in 2001, sailed on the Patra-Brindisi route. In the summer of 2001, chartered to Turkish Marmara Lines, renamed CESME2 and plied on the Brindisi-Cesme route. In 2003, sold to Arabia-based Marco Shipping and sailed between Dubai and Iraq as MERDIF 2 and in 2011, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The Arkas was built for Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry at Naikai Zosen Setoda shipyard in 1972. She ran on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route with her sister ship, Albireo (1973). In 1977, car decks were added on. In May 1982, she was transferred to newly-established Taiheiyo Ferry. Sold to Greece in 1987 when the Kiso (I) entered service. (T.I.)

Purchased by Strintzis Lines in 1989 and renamed IONIAN ISLAND. Extensively rebuilt into a luxurious cruise ferry at Perama (1989-90), and she sailed on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route with her sister, IONIAN GALAXY. In 1995, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route and in 1999, plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Bar route. In 2000, registered to Blue Star Ferries as BLUE ISLAND and in 2001, sailed between Patra and Brindisi. In the summer of 2001, chartered to Turkish Marmara Lines, renamed CESME 1 and plied between Venice and Cesme. In 2003, chartered to Algerie Ferries for service on the Marseille-Alicante route and in 2004, sold to Arabia-based Marco Shipping and sailed between Dubai and Iraq as MERDIF 1. Sold for scrap in India in 2010. (S.R.)

The Albireo was a sister ship of the Arkas (1972). She was built for Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry at Naikai Zosen Setoda shipyard in 1973. She ran on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route. In May 1982, she was transferred to newly-established Taiheiyo Ferry. Sold to Greece in 1989 when the Kitakami entered service. (T.I.)

In 2004, sold to AGOUDIMOS LINES and renamed IONIAN KING. She and her sister were the biggest Japanese ferries ever converted in Greece. In 2005, she entered service on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Bari route. In 2011, sold to Japanese operator, Huis Ten Bosch Co. and renamed OCEAN ROSE. Entered service on the Nagasaki (Japan)-Shanghai (China) route. In August 2013, chartered by China-based International Oceanic Group (Hong Kong) and renamed OCEAN GRANDE. From 2015 to 2017, she was laid up at Batam island (Indonesia) . In May 2017, she was renamed DV OCEN and sold for scrap to Alang (India).(S.R.)

Shin Nihonkai Ferry's Ferry Lavender was built at Ishikawajima Harima Heavy Industries Tokyo Shipyard in 1991. She entered service on the Otaru-Maizuru route on September 30, 1991. Sold to Greece in 2004. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Lines in March 1998 and renamed IONIAN VICTORY. Converted into a ro-pax ferry and entered service on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona/Venice route. In 2000, registered to the newly-established Blue Star Ferries and renamed BLUE SKY. In 2003, served the Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Brindisi route and in 2004, purchased by Agoudimos Lines and renamed IONIAN SKY. From 2009 to 2011, laid up at Perama and Ambelakia docks. After a short charter to Nel Lines in 2013, she was laid up at Kynosoura. On March 7, 2018, she was purchased by a Cyprus-based MEDFERRY SHIPPING Co. for 1.67M Euro at an auction. At the end of March 2018, she was sold to a Portuguese ferry operator for $3M. They planed to refirbish her fully and use her on the Setubal-Funchal (Madeira) route. On October 8, 2019, she dangerously listed to the right while she was laid up. She was refloated and in November 2019, the Public Port Authority decided to sell and remove her from the Piraeus Port. At the beginning of December, however, the Public Port Authority cancelled the open tender. On January 21, 2020, she was sold for scrap and towed to Aliaga (Turkey) for dismantling.(S.R.)

The Sapporo Maru was built for Nihon Enkai Ferry at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki Shipyard in 1974. She entered service on the Tokyo-Tomakomai route. In 1985, she was transferred to the Oarai-Tomakomai route. In 1987, she returned to the Tokyo-Tomakomai route. In 1991, she was renamed Sunflower Sapporo. Sold to Greece in 1998. (T.I.)

In 1998, sold to Greek Strintzis Lines and renamed IOALAOS. From 1998 to 2010, she was mainly servicing at Northern Europe chartered under different operators. She was chartered to Nel Lines in 2010 for the Piraeus-Syros-Mykonos-Paros-Naxos-Ikaria run, the Piraeus-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos run and the Corinth-Ancona run. In 2012, chartered to Spanish Balearia for a year. Sold for scrap to Aliaga, Turkey in July 2014. (S.R.)

The Kosei Maru was built as a ro-ro vessel for Kanko Kisen at Kanda Zosensho (Shipbuilding) in 1991. Sold to Greece in 1998. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Lines in March 1995 and renamed KEFALONIA. Rebuilt at Perama into a ro-pax ferry and plied on the Patra-Killini-Sami (Kefalonia)-Vathi (Ithaki) route. In 2000, registered to the newly-established Blue Star Ferries and in 2004, sold to Strintzis Ferries. In 2007, entered service on the Patras-Sami-Ithaki (Pisaetos) route and in March 2013, purchased by Kefalonian Lines, renamed NISSOS KEFALONIA and plied on the Kyllini-Poros-Argostoli route. Today, the ship serves on the Kyllini-Poros (Kefalonia), the Kyllini-Zakynthos and the Kyllini-Sami-Ithaki route. In November 2018, Kefalonian Lines suspended her operation in the Ionian Sea. She was sold to Levante Ferries, and renamed KEFALONIA. She was completely refurbished, renovated and upgraded externally, internally and mechanically. In April 2019, she entered service on the Kyllini-Zakynthos-Kefalonia route.(S.R.)

Higashi Nihon Ferry's Venus was built in 1975, and ran on the Aomori-Hakodate route and the Tomakomai-Hachinohe route. She was sold to the Philippines in 1994. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEDYK in January 2010 and renamed SFAKIA. In 2014, She was sold to an another Greek operator at Corfu, and due to enter service on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu route under the name, KERKYRA EXPRESS. In December 2014, she was sold to Corfu-based Ionian Lines and renamed KERKYRA EXPRESS. In January 2015, she entered service on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu/Paxoi route (S.R.)

The New Hiyama ran on the Esashi-Okushiri island route and the Setana-Okushiri island route under Higashi Nihonkai Ferry, a sister company of Higashi Nihon Ferry. Her sister ship was the Avrora Okushiri (1999). She was sold to Greece in 2010. (T.I.)

Sold to Minoan Lines in 1987 and renamed KING MINOS. In 1988, plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route. In 1992, transferred to the Piraeus-Heraklion route and in 2001, plied on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Brindisi route. In 2002, sold to Italian Maritime Way and in 2004, chartered to COMANAV for their Tanger-Genoa run. In December 2004, sold to Egypt-based NAMMA LINES and renamed MAWADDAH. She plies between Safaga and Jeddah, and makes seasonal service between Umrah and Hajj. (S.R.)

Nihon Enkai Ferry's Erimo Maru was a siter ship of the Shiretoko Maru (1972). She was built at Kanasashi Zosensho in 1972, and ran on the Tomakomai-Tokyo route. In 1987, she was sold to Greece. 'Erimo' is a place name in Hokkaido. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES, Greece in May 1996 and renamed KRITI I. She was extensively rebuilt into a ro-pax ferry at Perama from 1996 to 1997 and plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Ancona route. In 2001, transferred to the Pireaus-Heraklion route and in 2006, plied on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Venice route. In 2008, entered service on the Piraeus-Heraklion route and in 2011, laid up. In November 2012, chartered for service abroad and from December 2012 to 2013, she remained laid up at Perama. In 2014 she plied between Piraeus and Heraklion with her running mate, BLUE HORIZON (ex-Varuna, 1987) . On July 24, 2015, chartered for voyages to the Black Sea. She was replaced on the Piraeus-Chania route by the KYDON (ex-Hermes, 1990) on July 21, 2015, and was laid up at Perama. In March 2017, she was chartered to Grimaldi Navi Veloci (GNV) for 2 years, and entered service on the Civitavecchia (Italy) -Termine Immerse (North Sicily) route. Her charter to GNV extended by a year to 2019. In October 2019, her charter to GNV expired and the large ferry returned back to Piraeus. Currently, she is under repair and she is expected to be introduced on the Piraeus-Crete run again. (S.R.)

The New Suzuran entered service on the Otaru-Tsuruga route in 1979. The Shin Nihonkai Ferry's flag ship was one of the largest car ferries in Japan. In May 1996, she was sold to Greece. 'Suzuran' means 'lily of the valley.' (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES, Greece in May 1996 and renamed KRITI II. She was extensively rebuilt into a ro-pax ferry at Perama from 1996 to 1997, and plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Ancona route. In 2001, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Trieste route and in 2002, entered service on the Pireaus-Heraklion route. In 2007, returned back to the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu run and in 2008, plied again between Pireaus and Heraklion. In 2009, transferred to the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Thessaloniki route, replacing the LISSOS for a while and in 2011, laid up at Perama. In 2012, replaced the SOFOKLES V. on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route and in the next year, laid up again at Perama. She replaced the ELYROS on the Piraeus-Chania route for a month on September 11, 2014. She was replaced by the ELYROS in November 2015, and has been laid up at Perama. From June 14, 2016 to September 30, 2016, she replaced the KYDON on the Piraeus-Heraklion route for the summer season (S.R.)

The New Yukari was a sister ship of the New Suzuran. She plied between Otaru and Tsuruga. She was sold to Greece in May 1996. 'Yukari' means 'blue gum.' (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES in 1998 and renamed SOFOKLES V. In 1999, converted into a luxurious po-pax ferry for the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Trieste route. In 2005, transferred to the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Venice route. In 2007, sailed on the Patra-Ancona route and in 2012, chartered to South Korea-based Jeju Cruise Line for the Shanghai (China)-Jeju island (South Korea)-Moji (Japan) run. Renamed ELIZABETH L. The option was to be purchased by the Korean operator but plans fell through. The ship returned back after a year laid up at South Korea. Chartered to Algerie Ferries for the Oran-Alicante route for the summer season of 2014. In October 2014, sold for $11m to a French interest bank and Anek Lines is chartering her from the bank. In July 2015, the ship was renamed KYDON and entered service at Piraeus-Chania run replacing the KRITI I. In November 2015, she was transferred to the Piraeus-Heraklion route. In June 14, 2016, she returned to the Piraeus-Chania route replacing the ELYROS. In 2017, she was chartered to Ferries Del Caribe for service between San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) . There is an option to be sold there. She replaced the CARIBBEAN FANTASY (ex-Victory, 1989) which was damaged by fire in August 2016. (S.R.)

Sapporo-based Higashi Nihon Ferry's 'Herumesu (=Hermes)' ran on the Muroran-Naoetsu route and the Iwanai-Naoetsu route. She was sold to Greece in November 1998. (T.I.)

Purchased by ANEK LINES in 1987 and renamed LATO. Extensively rebuilt into a luxurious passenger car ferry from 1987 to 1989. She plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route. She was then the biggest ferry of the Greek coastal lines. In 1997, transferred to the Piraeus-Chania route and in 2006, served on the Piraeus-Heraklion route for a short time. In the summer season of 2007, chartered to Algerian CNAN (Mahreb Lines) for the Alger-Marseille route and in 2008, returned back to the Piraeus-Chania route. In the summer season of 2010, she served on the Bari (Italy)-Durres (Albania) route. Then, returned back to the Piraeus-Chania route. From May 2014, the ship was laid up at Perama. After that, she was chartered for a rescue mission in Lybia. In May 2015, laid up at Souda port (Crete). In August 2015, she arrived at Perama and was laid up. In February 2016, she was sold for scrap to Laton Shipping (Pakistan) because machinery problems she suffered was beyond repair. She was renamed LATON and remains at Kynosoura waiting for her last voyage. On June 6, 2018, she was sold for scrap to Turkey and beached to Aliaga. Renamed TALATON.(S.R.)

The Daisetsu ran on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route under Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry. In 1980, she was extended 12.5 meters. In January 1982, she was sold to Higashi Nihon Ferry, and renamed Varuna. The Varuna plied between Muroran and Oarai. In 1987, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to ANEK LINES in 1987. In 1989, after an extensive conversion, she plied on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route. In 1992, she replaced ANEK LINE's new flagship, EL VENIZELOS on the Piraeus-Chania route. In 2008, transferred to the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Thessaloniki route. In March 2011, sold for scrap to Alang (India). (S.R.)

The Ferry Hamanasu entered service on May 14, 1972. The Shin Nihonkai Ferry's long haul car ferry had an unique dome on the bow. She connected Otaru with Maizuru and Tsuruga. In June 1987 when New Shirayuri entered service, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Epirus Line in 1976 and renamed EPIRUS II. She plied between Rafina and Cyclades. In 1980, renamed CHRISSI AMMOS II and in 1982, her name shortened further to CHRISSI AMMOS. In 1986, sold to Peace Line Shipping and renamed ANAX. In 1987, purchased by Goutos Lines and renamed KYTHNOS for service on the Lavrio-Kea route. In 1989, transferred to the Rafina-Andros and the Rafina-Agios Efstratios-Lemnos-Kavala route and in 1992, sold to Nomicos Lines and renamed MACEDON. Then, she plied on the Agios Konstantinos-Skiathos-Skopelos-Allonissos route. In 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins and in 2002, resold to Goutos Lines and served again on the Lavrio-Kea route. Today, the MACEDON operates on the Lavrion-Kea-Kythnos route and she is the ferry with the longest service within the Greek ferry scene. She serves from 1976 up to today! (S.R.)

Nankai Chuo Ferry's 'Ferry Dai-ichi Nankai (=Ferry Naknai No.1)' ran on the Senboku-Shizuki, Awaji Island route. However, the operator was out of business and the route was closed in 1976. She was sold to Greece in the same year. (T.I.)

Sold to Saos Ferries, Greece in March 2006 and renamed MAMI. She was due to be converted into a passenger car ferry for service in the North Aegean Sea under the name MACEDONIA. Her extensive conversion began in February 2007, but never completed as SAOS FERRIES went bankrupt and finally out of business. So the ship remained unfinished and laid up at Perama since March 2013. She was sold for scrap in March 2013. In August 2014, she returned from Aliaga (Turkey), and has been laid up at Saronicos bay. On December 17, 2017, she was drifted away and ran aground in Salamina bay due to heavy southern winds. She was transferred to Hellenic Shipyards (Spanopoulos Group). In January 2018, she was sold to Turkey for scrap, according to unconfirmed reports. (S.R.)

Amami Kaiun's Ferry Amami (II) replaced the Ferry Amami (I) on April 17, 1989. She plied between Kagoshima and Amami islands. In April 2006 when the Ferry Amami (III) entered service, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Strintzis Lines in 1991 and renamed SUPERFERRY after having an extensive rebuild. In 1992, entered service on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos route and later on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Ancona route. In 1993, transferred to the Swansea-Cork route in the Northern Europe. In 2001, returned to Greece, registered to Blue Star Ferries and renamed BLUE AEGEAN. She plied on the Piraeus-Syros-Tinos-Mykonos route. In 2002, sold to Ireland-based Briar Star Ltd. for the Swansea-Cork route and in 2006, sold to Egypt-based Namma Line and renamed MAHABBAH. Today, she plies between Safaga and Jeddah. (S.R.)

Ocean Ferry's Cassiopeia plied between Chiba and Tokushima with her sister ship, Albatross (1972). Ocean Ferry and Tokyu Ferry consolidated and became Ocean Tokyu Ferry. She was remaned 'Dai-san Izu (=Izu No.3)' in 1976, and ran on the Tokyo-Tokushima-Kokura route. Sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to Tyrogalas Shipping, Greece in January 2003. Extensively rebuilt as a ro-pax ferry, renamed IONIAN STAR and entered service on the Kyllini-Zakynthos route in September 2003. The IONIAN STAR (ex-Niihama 2, 1984) & the DIONISSIOS SOLOMOS (ex-Royal Kawanoe, 1990) serve on the Kyllini-Zakynthos route. In July 2015, IONIAN STAR was sold to Levante Ferries. In February 2016, she underwent refit, changed livery and was renamed MARE DI LEVANTE. On March 27, 2016, the ship returned to Zakynthos port and entered service on the Kyllini-Zakynthos route and the Kyllini-Poros (Cefalonia) route. (S.R.)

The Niihama 2 ran on the Niihama-Kawanoe-Kobe-Osaka route with her sister ship, Kawanoe 2 (1984) under Shikoku Chuo Ferryboat from 1984 to 1994. She was sold to South Korea in 1994. (T.I.)

Sold to G.A. Ferries in July 1990 and renamed MARINA. Heavily rebuilt at Perama into a luxurious cruise ferry until 1994 and entered service on the Piraeus-Syros-Paros-Naxos-Ikaria-Fourni -Samos, the Pireaus-Syros-Ikaria-Samos-Chios-Lesvos-Lemnos-Kavala, and the Pireaus-Astypalea-Kalymnos-Kos-Nissiros-Tilos-Symi-Rodos route. In 2004, transferred to the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ikaria-Fourni-Karlovasi-Vathi route and in 2009, served on the Piraeus-Syros-Ikaria-Fourni-Karlovasi-Vathi route. She was laid up at Piraeus port from September 2009 to September 2011, due to her operator's bankruptcy. Sold for scrap and went to Aliaga (Turkey) for dismantling in September 2011. (S.R.)

The Green Ace was operated by Hiroshima Green Ferry, and plied between Hiroshima and Osaka from 1971 to 1982. She was sold to Kurushima Kosan, and chartered by Diamond Ferry. She was renamed Okudogo 6 and entered service on the Kobe-Matsuyama-Oita route in December 1982. Sold to Greece in 1990 when the Blue Diamond entered service. (T.I.)

Sold to Karystia Shipping in November 1999 and renamed MARMARI EXPRESS. Converted at Perama as a day ferry in 2000 and plied between Rafina and Marmari. In 2005, transferred to the Lavrion-Kea route. Today, the ship serves on the Lavrion-Kea-Kythnos route. (S.R.)

The Naruo belonged to the Koshien Kosoku Ferry's fleet. Her sister ships were the Shizuki (1985), the Ikuho (1985) and the Awaji (1987). They plied between Nishinomiya and Tsuna, Awaji Island. The Naruo was sold to Greece in 2002. (T.I.)

She was purchased by Endeavor Lines in 2008 and renamed PRINCESS T.. Since then, she went to Chinese Xinya Zhousan Shipyard for conversion into a ro-pax ferry. In July 2009, arrived at Perama and in April 2011, transferred to Ambelakia Salamina for completion. There, the ship was laid up until July 2013 when her operator decided to send her at Turkish Yalova shipyard for completion. Unfortunately, there was no progress there, so the ship returned to Perama in April, 2014. Her operator chartered her for the summer season to newly-established Swedish company Gotlandsbaten AB for their Visby-Vastervik route. But false calculations on behalf of the Swedish operator and a series of delays in the working progress in Greece make the charter to fail. The ship was dry docked in May 2013, and was laid up at Kynosoura. In 2013, she was chartered by Gotlandsbaten AB for summer service between Visby and Vastervik and renamed VASTERVIK. In July 2014, the charter failed and the ship was offered to European Management Maritime Company (EMMC) for service between Piraeus and Rethimnon. The plan fell through and she was laid up at Kynosoura. In April 2015, she was decided to enter service on the Igoumenitsa-Kefalonia (Sami)-Corfu and Bari route on May 15, 2016. Renovated and changed livery. In March 2016, she finally arrived at Igoumenitsa for the service. Since November 2016, she has been detained at the port of Igoumenitsa due to unpaid wages. In August 2017, she was sold to the Moroccan Inter Shipping for service on the Algeciras-Tangier route. In November 2017, she entered a dry dock, underwent a major refit, and renamed MED STAR. On April 3, 2018, she left Perama for Spain. The ship will enter service on the Algeciras-Tangier route in May 2018. (S.R.)

The Queen Diamond was built for Diamond Ferry at Kurushima Dockyard Onishi Shipyard in 1986. She ran on the Kobe-Imabari-Matsuyama-Oita route. In 2003, she was sold to South Korea. (T.I.)

Sold to G.A. FERRIES in December 1988 and renamed MILENA. In December 1988, arrived at Perama for extensive conversion into a luxury passenger car ferry and in June 1989, entered service on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ikaria-Samos route. In 1990, had one more refit plus new engines and in 2005, she plied on the Patras-Kefalonia-Zakythos-Brindisi route. In 2006, she served on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Kefalonia-Brindisi route in collaboration with Italian Maritime Way. In 2007, she remained laid up at the port of Piraeus and in 2008, she entered service on the Piraeus-Sifnos-Santorini-Heraklion-Sitia-Kasos-Karpathos-Halki-Rodos route. She was laid up at Piraeus port from September 2009 to December 2011, due to her operator's bankruptcy. Sold for scrap and went to Aliaga (Turkey) for dismantling in December 2011. (S.R.)

Diamond Ferry's Ferry Gold was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki Shipyard in 1970. Her sister ship was the Ferry Pearl. They ran on the Kobe-Matsuyama-Oita route. In 1980, she was extended 11.9 meters. She was laid up in 1986, and sold to Greece in December 1988. (T.I.)

Sold to NEL LINES in March 1990 and renamed MYTILENE. From 1991 to 1992, converted into a luxurious night ferry for the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route and the Lemnos-Kavala-Thessaloniki route. In 2013, transferred to the Piraeus-Syros-Eydilos-Ag. Kyrikos-Fournoi-Karlovasi-Vathi route. The MYTILENE operated in Thessaloniki, and on the Kavala-Lemnos-Chios-Mytilene-Samos-Ikaria route. On February 2015, the ship entered at Karlovasi (Samos) port and laid up. And then, she was transferred to Elefsis Bay and has been laid up there. NEL LINES collapsed and the future of the ship remains uncertain. (S.R.)

The Vega belonged to Shin Higashi Nihon Ferry, a subsidiary of Higashi Nihon Ferry. She ran on the Tomakomai-Sendai route from 1973 to 1986. Her sister ship was the Virgo (1974). In 1990, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Hellenic Seaways in August 2004 and renamed OCEAN TRAILER. In 2005, chartered to Grimaldi Group and plied between Genoa and Barcelona as a roro vessel. In 2007, transferred to the Corinth-Porto Marghera route. In 2009, refurbished and used as a cruise ferry on the Piraeus-Paros-Kos-Rodos route. In May 2011, laid up at Perama and Ambelakia Salaminas and in 2012, chartered to Turkish Sisa Shipping Line for service on the Iskenderun-Egypt route. The NISSOS RODOS was offered for sale and operated on the Corinth-Porto Marghera route as a cargo roro vessel. In June 2015, transferred to the Piraeus-Syros-Mykonos-Patmos-Ikaria-Samos-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Kavala route. She was rebuilt. Her aft superstructure was extended. Also, new cabins was added and a new stern ramp for passengers was fitted. In june 2016, she resumed sailings. She runs on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Patmos-Ag.Kirikos-Samos-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Kavala route. In May 2018, she was transferred to the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. In April 2020, she replaced the BLUE GALAXY on the Piraeus-Chania route for at least 1.5 months due to the Covid-19. (S.R.)

The Kiso was the first luxury cruise ferry of Nagoya-based Taiheiyo Ferry. She replaced the Arkas (1972) and ran on the Nagoya-Sendai-Tomakomai route. In 2005, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Endeavor Lines in 2004 and renamed IONIAN GLORY. In January 2005, she arrived at Perama in order to be converted into a ro-pax ferry. Six months later, she entered service on the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Bari route as IONIAN QUEEN. In 2012, Endeavor Lines went out of business. She was laid up at Patras port from February 2012 and offered for sale. On December 2, 2015, the ship was purchased by Greek owned Hellenic Seaways at the price of 3 million euros. Renamed NISSOS SAMOS and she was made over for service on the Piraeus-Mesta (Chios)-Mytilene-Lemnos-Thessaloniki route. She entered service on the Piraeus -Mesta(Chios)-Mytilene-Thessaloniki route on July 29, 2016. On March 31, 2017, she entered service on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Santorini route. In March 2018, she returned back to the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene-Lemnos-Kavala route. In April 2018, she entered service on the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. (S.R.)

Shin Nihonkai Ferry's New Akashia replaced the Ferry Akashia (1973), and plied between Otaru and Maizuru. She was sold to Greece in 2004. (T.I.)

Sold to Minoan Lines in 1989 and renamed N.KAZANTZAKIS. In 1990, plied between Piraeus and Heraklion. In 2001, sold to Hainan-based Pacific Cruises and renamed MING FAI PRINCESS. Entered service between Haikou and Beihai. In 2007, transferred to Metropolis Cruise Co. Ltd., Panama and renamed METROPOLIS. She sails to Hong Kong as an overnight casino ship. (S.R.)

Nihon Enkai Ferry's Shiretoko Maru plied between Tomakomai and Tokyo with her sister ship, Erimo Maru. 'Shiretoko' is a place name in Hokkaido. Sold to Greece in 1987. (T.I.)

In 2007, sold to Zante Ferries for service between Killini and Zakynthos. Renamed ODYSSEAS ELYTIS, but never sailed for the company and remained laid up at Zakynthos port from 2008 to 2013. In November 2013, she was sold to Indonesia and renamed ELYSIA. Today, she plies between Bakauheni and Merak. (S.R.)

The Vena was a sister ship of the Visva (1987). The Higashi Nihon Ferry's sisters ran on the Aomori-Hakodate route. In 2007, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Med Link Lines in 1998 and renamed MARIA G. She was converted into a Ro-Pax ferry and entered service on the Brinidisi-Igoumenitsa-Patras-Cesme route in July 1998. In 2004, purchased by Endeavour Lines and renamed ELLI T. Almost immediately, chartered to Italian Maritime Way for the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi route. In 2006, she returned back to her operator and plied on the Patras-Kefalonia-Zakynthos-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi route. In 2008, transferred to the Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Brindisi route and in 2012, laid up at Piraeus port as her operator went out of business. In July 2012, she entered service on the Piraeus-Rethimnon route. She left the run on September 23, 2014, after one of her main engines failed. On June 27, 2018, she was sold to Sea Speed Lines at an auction. In November 2018, she was towed from a shipyard in Koro to a yard in Spanopoulos in order to undergo repairs for her new role in the Greek ferry scenes. In May 2019, she was renamed OLYMPUS. She is expected to be introduced on the Piraeus-Milos-Santorini-Rethimnon route by the end of June, 2019. In August 2019, she ran aground on her way to Santorini. She halted service and was transferred to Syros for repairs. She returned back to her regular service on December 12, 2019. (S.R.)

Ehime-Hanshin Ferry's Okudogo 3 was built at Kochi Juko in 1976, and connected Imabari to Kobe. She was sold to Malta in 1998. (T.I.)

Sold to SAOS FERRIES in November 2005. In 2006, converted into a roro vessel for service on the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. In 2007, the ship remained unfinished and laid up at Elefsis bay. In 2008, the ship’s conversion is finally completed and takes a short charter to Blue Star Ferries for summer seasons. In the end of 2008, SAOS Ferries went bankrupt and out of business, and the old vessel was laid up at the port of Piraeus. She was sold for scrap in March 2013. On August 4, 2014, she returned from Aliaga (Turkey). She has been laid up at Saronicos bay facing a danger of sink on the spot. On January 20, 2018, she was drifted away near the Piraeus port entrance due to strong southern winds. She was transferred to Hellenic Shipyards (Spanopoulos) and laid up there. In December 2018, she was placed on the list of dangerous and harmful ships of the Greek Public Authority of Ports because her further presence in the port was considered to pose risks to maritime safety and environment. And then it decided to sell and remove her from the port of Piraeus on January 14, 2019. However, she is still laid up. She will be probably sold for scrap.(S.R.)

Nishi Nihon Ferry's Hakata plied between Kobe and Kanda with her sister ship, Tsukushi (1973). In 1975, she was sold to Hankyu Ferry, and renamed 'Dai-junana Hankyu (=Hankyu No.17).' In 1979, the Kobe-Kanda route was closed, and transferred to the Kobe-Kokura route. In 1984, she was sold to Kampu Ferry, and renamed Ferry Kampu. She began to run on the Shimonoseki-Busan (S. Korea) route. In 1999, she was sold to a South Korean ferry operator, Pukwan Ferry, and renamed Ferry Pukwan. In 2005, she was renamed Eunha, and began to run on the Hiroshima-Busan (S. Korea) route. However, the route was closed in July 2005. She was renamed Eun, and sold to Greece in 2006. (T.I.)

Sold to Express Sea Trailer and renamed STAR TRAILER. In 1999, converted into a roro vessel and entered service on the Corinth-Venice route. In the same year, purchased by Minoan Flying Dolphins and in 2003, sold to Saos Ferries and renamed PANAGIA KRIMNIOTISSA. She plied on the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. Laid up at Perama, Kynosoura and Elefsis bay from 2006 to 2007, and in 2008, chartered to Blue Star Ferries for service on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Santorini-Heraklion-Karpathos-Rodos route. In the end of 2008, laid up at Elefsis bay as her operator went out of business. Remained there until October 2011 and sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey). (S.R.)

Nishi Nihon Ferry's Tsukushi was built at Kanda Zosensho (Shipbuilding) in 1973. She plied between Kanda and Kobe with her sister ship, Hakata (1973). In March 1975, she was sold to Hankyu Ferry, renamed 'Dai-juroku Hankyu (=Hankyu No.16)', and continued to run on the Kanda-Kobe route. In 1979, the route was closed. Transferred to the Kokura-Kobe route in April 1979. In March 1983, sold to a South Korean Pukwan Ferry, and renamed Ferry Pukwan. She plied between Busan (S.Korea) and Shimonoseki (Japan). In 1999, sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Hellenic Ferries Shipping in June 2003 and renamed STAR A. Rebuilt at Perama till the end of the year and in May 2005, she entered service on the Rafina-Marmari route as ARTEMISIA. In 2011, sold to Dodekanissos Seaways and renamed PANAGIA SKIADENI. Today, the ship (ex-Ferry Tachibana, 1986) serves on the Rodos-Marmaris and the Rodos-Panormitis-Symi route. (S.R.)

Nankai Ferry's Ferry Tachibana plied between Wakayama and Tokushima. She was sold to Panama in 2000. (T.I.)

Purchased by Minoan Lines in 1991 and renamed ARETHOUSA. Sold to Rodos-based Dane Sea Lines in 1991 and renamed PATMOS. Converted at Perama into a night ferry in 1992, and entered service on the Piraeus-Kos-Rodos route, the Piraeus-Rodos route and the Piraeus-Rodos-Thessaloniki route. In 1997, her operator went bankrupt and laid up at Avlis shipyards with her running mate, RODOS. In 1999, after being laid up for 20 months, she was repaired and reactivated on the Piraeus-Patmos-Leros-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos route and the Piraeus-Kos-Rodos-Samos-Thessaloniki route. In 2004, DANE SEA LINE collapsed and PATMOS was laid up for the next two years at Neos Molos Drapetsona. In 2006, purchased at an auction by Blue Star Ferries and two months later, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

Ocean Ferry's Albatros was built at Hashihama Zosen in 1972. She ran on the Chiba-Tokushima route with her sister ship, Cassiopeia (1972). In 1976, Ocean Ferry and Tokyu Ferry consolidated and became Ocean Tokyu Ferry. She was transferred to Ocean Tokyu Ferry and renamed 'Dai-juichi Izu (=Izu No.11)', and started to run on the Tokyo-Tokushima-Kokura route. Sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

In 2003, sold to Ionian Fast Ferries and renamed PLATITERA. She entered service on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu route. In 2007, sold to Italy-based Medmar and renamed MARIA BUONO. Today, she plies on the Ischia-Casamicciola-Pozzuoli route. (S.R.)

The Chiezuru Maru plied between Suma (Kobe) and Oiso (Awaji Island) with her sisters, the Yukatsuru Maru (1989), the Miwatsuru Maru (1990) and the Fukitsuru Maru (1991) under Awaji Ferryboat. She was sold to Honduras in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to Cretan Ferries in 1994 and renamed PREVELI. Extensively rebuilt in 1995 at Perama into a luxurious cruise ferry and entered service between Piraeus and Rethymnon. In 2000, chartered to Dane Sea Lines and sailed on the Piraeus-Patmos-Kos-Rodos route. In April 2000, purchased by ANEK LINES and renamed PREVELIS. A month later, she sailed on the Piraeus-Heraklion route, the Piraeus-Dodekanisos islands route, and the Piraeus-Rethimnon route. In 2001, transferred to the Piraeus-Rethimnon route and in 2007, plied between Piraeus and Chania. In 2008, transferred to the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini route for the summer season and in 2009, she sailed on the Piraeus-Santorini-Anafi-Kassos-Karpathos-Rodos route. In March 2011, replaced IERAPETRA L on the Piraeus-Milos-Santorini-Heraklion-Sitia-Kassos-Karpathos-Chalki-Rhodes route, the Piraeus-Milos-Santorini-Anafi-Heraklion-Sitia-Kassos-Karpathos-Chalki-Rhodes route, and the Piraeus-Santorini-Anafi-Kassos-Karpathos-Chalki-Rodos route. Today, the PREVELIS plies on the Piraeus-Milos-Santorini-Anafi-Heraklion-Kasos-Karpathos-Rodos route. (S.R.)

The Ferry Orange 2 ran on the Toyo-Osaka route under Shikoku Kaihatsu Ferry (Orange Ferry). She was sold to Greece in 1994. (T.I.)

Sold to Med Link Lines in 1994 as POSEIDON and sailed on the Brindisi-Corfu-Igoumenitsa-Patra-Cesme route. In 1995, transferred to the Brindisi-Patra route and in 1998, purchased by Five Star Lines as POSEIDON X. In 2000, chartered to Algeria-based E.N.T.M.V. for service on the Alicante-Alger route and in 2004, re-chartered to Adriatic Seaways for service on the Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Brindisi route as POSEIDON C. In 2005, sold to Saudi Arabia-based Atlantides Shipping Co. and renamed POSEIDON. In 2008, sold for scrap to Pakistan. (S.R.)

The Suzuran Maru was built for Shin Nihonkai Ferry at Koyo Senkyo (Dockyard) in 1970. She was the first long haul car ferry which ran on the Sea of Japan, and plied between Otaru and Maizuru/Tsuruga. She had an unique dome on her bow. In 1975, sold to Tokyu Ferry and in 1976, renamed Ferry Izu. In 1977, she was repurchased by Shin Nihonkai Ferry, renamed Ferry Lilac, and ran on the Otaru-Niigata route. In 1980, sold to Nishi Nihon Shosen. She was coverted into a cruise ship and renamed Utopia. In 1994, sold to Malta. (T.I.)

Sold to Greek-Cypriot Waveray Shipping Co. in October 1986 and renamed QUEEN VERGINA. In 1987, served on the Ancona-Corfu-Mykonos-Piraeus-Rodos-Limassol-Haifa route and in 1988, purchased by Casablanca-based Moroccan Navigation and renamed RIF. In 1992, sold to Libya-based General National Maritime Transport Co. and renamed HANAA and in 1998, laid up at Valleta (Malta). In 2004, sold for scrap to Turkey. (S.R.)

Terukuni Yusen's Queen Coral was a luxury car ferry for an Okinawan route. She was built at Hayashikane Zosen Shimonoseki shipyard in 1972, and ran on the Kagoshima-Amami Islands-Naha, Okinawa Island route. Sold to Greece in 1979. (T.I.)

Sold to Crete-based ANEK LINES in 1972 and renamed RETHIMNON. After a small scale conversion, she entered service on the Piraeus-Heraklion and the Piraeus-Chania route. In 2001, sold with her sister, CANDIA to Dubai-based Naif Marine Services and renamed JABAL ALI 2. Sailed between Port Rahsid and Umm Qasr. In 2008, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

Central Ferry's 'Dai-go Central (=Central No.5)' was built at Sumitomo Heavy Industries Uraga shipyard in 1971. Her sister ship was the 'Dai-ni Central (=Central No.2)'. She plied between Kawasaki and Kobe. However, short-lived Central Ferry was out of business, and she was sold to Greece in 1972. (T.I.)

In December 2018, she was purchased by the Cyprus-based Ventouris Ferries. On March 3, 2019, she arrived at the port of Aigio, where she has been laid up since then. On September 13, 2019, she was transferred to Kynosoura (Diamantis yard) in order to be converted. On April 30, 2020, she was introduced on the Bari-Durres route.(S.R.)

The Orange 7 (9,917gt) was built for Shikoku Kaihatsu Ferry (Orange Ferry) at Imabari Shipbuilding Imabari Shipyard, and was completed in March 1994. She ran on the Niihama-Toyo (Saijo)-Osaka-Kobe route. She was replaced by the Orange Osaka (14,759gt) on December 4, 2018.(T.I.)

Sold to GA FERRIES in June 1989 and renamed RODANTHI. Converted into a luxurious cruise ferry and entered service on the Piraeus-Paros-Santorini-Heraklion-Rodos route in 1990. In 1993, transferred to the Patras-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Ancona route and in June 1995, chartered to COTUNAV for service on the Genova/Marseille-Tunis route. In the fall of 1995, the ship served on the Patras-Igoumenista-Brindisi route and in 1996, she sailed on the Piraeus-Syros-Paros-Naxos-Santorini route. In 1997, she plied on the Piraeus-Cyclades-Patmos-Leros-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos route and in March 2008, served on the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini route. In 2009, entered service on the Piraeus-Thira-Kassos-Karpathos-Rodos route and the Piraeus-Paros-Naxos-Ios-Santorini-Anafi route. Laid up at Piraeus port from September 2009 to February 2012, as her operator went out of business. Sold for scrap and went to Aliaga (Turkey) in February 2012. (S.R.)

The Virgo was a sister ship of the Vega (1973). They plied between Tomakomai and Sendai under Shin Higashi Nihon Ferry, a subsidiary of Higashi Nihon Ferry. She was transferred to Higashi Nihon Ferry in 1977. In 1989, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to Rodos-based DANE SEA LINE in 1989 and renamed RODOS. After an extensive rebuilt into a night ferry, she entered service on the Piraeus-Patmos-Leros-Kalymnos-Kos-Rodos route. In 1997, her operator went bankrupt and laid up at Avlis shipyards, but in 2000, reactivated to the same run. In 2004, DANE SEA LINE collapsed and the RODOS was laid up for the next two years at Neos Molos Drapetsona. In 2006, purchased at an auction by Blue Star Ferries and two months later, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry's Argo ran on the Nagoya-Nachi Katsuura-Oita route with her sister, Alnasl (1973). Sold to Kansai Kisen, renamed Ferry Kogane Maru in 1980, and plied between Beppu and Kobe/Osaka. In 1984, transferred to Meimon Taiyo Ferry, and renamed Pegasus. She ran on the Osaka-Shin Moji route. Sold to Greece in 1989. (T.I.)

Sold to Argosaronikos Lines Shipping Co. in June 1999 and renamed NEFELI. Extensively rebuilt at Perama from August 1999 to 2000. Before her conversion was completed, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins and in May 2000, she entered service on the Piraeus-Aigina-Methana-Poros-Hydra-Spetses route. In January 2005, registered to Hellenic Seaways. Sold to Venezuela-based Navibus for $4.75m in June 2012. Renamed LA GALLERA. In February 2018, she was purchased by a Greek-owned Sea Speed Lines for 3M Euro. She was renamed NEFELI EXPRESS and entered service on the Ag. Konstantinos-Skiathos-Skopelos-Alonissos route. In April 2019, she was sold to Marcia Ferrys of West Africa. Renamed SAN VALENTIN 3 under the Palauan flag, and left for the Equatorial Guinean bay.(S.R.)

The Mukogawa ran on the Nishinomiya-Tsuna, Awaji Island route under Koshien Kosoku Ferry. She was sold to Greece in 1999. (T.I.)

Sold to SAOS FERRIES in 2007 and renamed LIBERTY B. In the end of October 2007, she arrived at Neos Molos Drapetsona (Greece) for rebuilding into a passenger ferry. She remained laid up at Perama since 2008. She was convered into a day ferry at Perama. In October 2015, the conversion into a passenger ferry was finally completed and she was due to enter service between Alexandroupoli and Samothraki. In February 2016, she arrived at Alexandroupoli and laid up. In February 2017, she was towed and returned to Piraeus and laid up at Neos Molos. On March 15, 2018, she went into service for the first time, and plies between Alexandroupoli and Samothrace. In August 2019, she was out of service because of her engine failure. Currently, her engines are under repair. She is expected to return back in service somewhere in Greece. (S.R.)

The Liberty Bell was a ro-ro vessel of Higashi Nihonkai Ferry, a sister company of Higashi Nihon Ferry. She was bought and renamed by Higashi Nihonkai Ferry in 2000, and connected Wakkanai with Rishiri island & Rebun island on an irregular base. (T.I.)

Sold to Cyprus-based Poseidon Lines in 1989 as LADY TERRY. Converted at Perama into a passenger car ferry until 1990 and entered service on the Piraeus-Milos-Agios- Nikolaos-Sitia-Kasos-Karpathos route as LASITHI. In 1992, renamed SEA HARMONY II and sailed on the Piraeus-Rodos-Limassol-Haifa route. In 2001, renamed OLYMPIA I and in 2002, Poseidon Lines went out of business and the ship laid up at Limassol as ARIELLE. In 2003, chartered to Algerie Ferries (CNAN) for service on the Algeciras-Tunisia route and later in the same year, transferred to the Barcelona-Palma de Mallorca-Alger route. In the spring of 2004, chartered to MED LINE (Romania) for the Volos-Istanbul-Constantza route and for the summer season of 2004, re-chartered to Hellenic Mediterranean Lines for service on the Patra-Igoumenitsa-Corfu-Brindisi route. In 2005, chartered to Jeddah-based ALFASSEL SHIPPING and in 2006, sold for scrap to India. (S.R.)

The Ishikari Maru (III) was built as a train ferry for JNR (Japanese National Railways) at Hitachi Zosen Mukaishima shipyard in 1977. She plied between Aomori and Hakodate from 1977 to 1988. In 1988, she was used as a floating hotel during the 'Tokachi Kaiyo Hakurankai (=Tokachi Ocean Expo)'. In October of the same year, she was sold to Yao-based Sakamoto Shoji. Sakamoto Shoji planned to use her as a floating camp for construction workers near Kansai International Airport, which was under construction at the time. But this plan did not become reality. After all, she was sold to Cyprus in 1989. (T.I.)

Sold to Panama-based Golden Galaxy S.A, in August 1990 and renamed LADY TERRY. In 1991, registered to Cyprus-based Poseidon Lines, renamed SEA SERENADE and sailed on the Bari-Corfu-Igoumenitsa route. In 1996, served on the Thessaloniki-Novorossisk route and for the spring of 1998, chartered to Novo Lines for service between Constantinople and Svarta Havet. In the summer of 1998, transferred to the Bari-Cesme-Marmaris-Haifa route and in 1999, served on the Bari-Corfu-Igoumenitsa route. In 2002, sailed between Trieste and Durres, and in 2004, sold at an auction to South Korea-based Four Season Cruise Co. and renamed CHANG PO GO. In 2006, sold to Marinos Lines and renamed MARINOS D. There were plans to sail on the Brindisi-Igoumenitsa-Zakynthos route, but never came true. The ship remained laid up at Izola shipyards from 2005 to 2012. Sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey) in January 2012. (S.R.)

The Sorachi Maru was the 4th Oshima Maru-class train ferry of JNR (Japanese National Railways). She was built at Hakodate Dock in 1976, and plied between Aomori and Hakodate from 1976 to 1988. Sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to Express Seatrailers, Greece in 1998 and renamed SEATRAILER. Converted at Perama into a roro vessel and plied on the Corinth-Porto-Maghera route. In 1999, sold to Minoan Flying Dolphins and transferred to the Patra-Porto-Maghera route and in 2001, she returned back to the Corinth-Porto-Maghera route. In June 2002, laid up at Elefsis bay and in September 2003, sold to India for scrap. (S.R.)

Fuji Ferry's Shima Maru was built at Hayashikane Zosen in 1973. She plied between Tokyo and Matsusaka with her sister, Ise Maru (1973). In 1978, sold to Kurushima Kosan. She was chartered by Kansai Kisen, and renamed Ferry Kuroshio. She ran on the Osaka/Kobe-Naze, Amami Island-Naha, Okinawa Island route. Sold to Greece in 1998. (T.I.)

In February 2019, she was purchased by the Crete-based ANENDYK. On June 3, 2019, she was loaded on the Calypso, a heavy-lift ship and shipped to Souda Bay (Greece). She is expected to arrive a month later and she will be introduced on the Sfakia-Gavdos run in 2020. (S.R.)

The Oniyouzu (258gt) was completed at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Shimonoseki Shipyard & Machinery Works on March 21, 1998. The cost of constructing the vessel was 850 million yen. Under Hagi Kaiun, she plied between the port of Hagi, Yamaguchi prefecture and Mishima island. She was able to carry up to 200 passengers, and containers of 20 tons. The max speed was 26.35knots. 'Oniyouzu' means 'Oni (=devil)' 'Youzu (=kite in Yamaguchi's dialect)', and she was named after a traditional event of Mishima island, which families on Mishima flies a devil (Oni)-illustrated big kite (Youzu) on New Year's Day after the birth of their first son. On March 31, 2019, she retired and was replaced by the Yuriya on April 1.(T.I.)

In March 2015, she was sold to Andros-based Golden Star Ferries and renamed GOLDEN FERRY. In June 2015, she arrived at a repair dock in Drapetsona (Greece) from Japan. From June 2015 to June 2016, she was extensively rebuilt into a luxurious day ferry and renamed SUPERFERRY. On July 11, 2016, she entered service on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos route. In September 2017, she replaced the BLUE STAR NAXOS temporarily on the Piraeus-Syros-Tinos-Mykonos route. During the summer months of 2018, she will enter service on the Rafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos- Paros-Ios-Santorini-Heraklion route.(S.R.)

The Kogane Maru was built for Niigata-based Sado Kisen at Kanda Shipbuilding in 1995. In April 1995, she entered service on the Naoetsu-Ogi (Sado Island) route. On April 20, 2015, she made her last voyage. (T.I.)

Sold to Fast Ferries in March 2006 and renamed THEOLOGOS P. Rebuilt at Perama and entered service on the Pafina-Andros-Tinos-Mykonos route in April 2007. Today, she plies on the route with her running mate, AIKATERINI P. (ex-Rokko Maru, 1990). (S.R.)

The Ferry Kochi ran on the Kochi-Osaka route. In March 2005, her operator, Osaka-Kochi Tokkyu Ferry became bankrupt, and the route was closed in June 2005. In 2006, she was sold to Greece. (T.I.)

Sold to SAOS Ferries in May 2005 and renamed THESSALONIKI. In November of the same year, she arrived at Perama for conversion. In July 2006, she entered service on the Piraeus-Kos-Rodos route and in 2007, transferred to the Piraeus-Chios-Mytilene route. In 2008, SAOS Ferries went bankrupt and out of business. The ship remained laid up at the port of Alexandroupoli from 2008 to 2014. Sold for scrap in March 2014 and left for Aliaga, Turkey (S.R.)

The Ferry Tokyo was built as a ro-ro vessel for Harumi Kisen in 1995. She ran on the Tokyo-Nagoya-Shibushi route. In 2004, she was sold to Kinkai Yusen Butsuryu, and renamed RORO Okinawa, which ran on the Tokyo-Nagoya-Shibushi-Naze, Amami Island-Naha, Okinawa Island route. In September 2005, she was sold to Marshall Islands. (T.I.)

Sold to VERGINA FERRIES in 1992 and renamed VERGINA CITY. Arrived at Perama for rebuilding into a cruise ship and laid up. In July 1995, caught fire during the conversion process and destroyed. In October 1995, sold for scrap to Turkey. (S.R.)

Kansai Kisen's Ivory Maru was built as a pure passenger ship at Uraga Heavy Industries Uraga shipyard in 1967. She plied between Osaka/Kobe and Beppu as a luxury cruise ship with her sister ship, Cobalt Maru (1967). Sold to Panama in 1992. (T.I.)

Sold to Piraeus-based VERGINA FERRIES in 1991 and renamed VERGINA CITY. In 1992, she was extensively rebuilt into a cruise ship and renamed CRETA SKY. In 1993, renamed VERGINA SKY and in 1999, laid up at Elefsis Bay. In 2004, sold for scrap to Aliaga (Turkey). (S.R.)

The Yufu was built for Kansai Kisen at Hashihama Zosen in 1971. She plied between Osaka and Beppu. Beppu is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan. She was a car ferry for holidaymakers, so she did not treat trucks. In March 1972, she was renamed Yufu Maru. In February 1984, she was laid up. Sold to Greece in 1991. (T.I.)

Sold to VERGINA FERRIES in 1992 and renamed VERGINA TRESURE. Arrived at Perama for rebuilding into a cruise ship and laid up. In July 1995, caught fire during the conversion process and destroyed. She was docked along with her sister, VERGINA CITY and destroyed together on the spot. In October 1995, sold for scrap to Turkey. (S.R.)

Kansai Kisen's Cobalt Maru was built as a pure passenger ship at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Kobe shipyard in 1967. She plied between Osaka/Kobe and Beppu as a luxury cruise ship with her sister ship, Ivory Maru (1967). Sold to Panama in 1992. (T.I.)

The conditions of ex-Japanese ferries in Greece, as of May, 2020.