Former Japanese Ferries in Greece
As you know, many "former Japanese ferries" are operated by Greek or Philippine ferry companies now. Italian friends of mine, Daniele Miglio Alfatzaris and Michele Lulurgas sent me some photos of these ferries by e-mail. If you compare "former figure"(before) and "present figure"(after), you will enjoy these photos very much.
Anek Lines
Sophocles V (Ex-Hermes)
29,900G/T
Pass.Capacity:1500
Posted with permission from Michele Lulurgas, Adriatic and Aegean ferries,
http://www.geocities.com/mlulurgas/
Hermes
Higashi Nihon Ferry
Length:192.5m
Beam:27m
Draft:6.70m
13,383G/T
Pass.Capacity:700
1990-1998
I have made a trip on board "Hermes" before. She was operated by "Higashi Nihon Ferry" and plied between Muroran (Hokkaido) and Naoetsu (Honshu). She was purchased by "Anek Lines". The present name is "Sophocles V" and she plies between Trieste (Italy) and Patrai (Greece). Her sister ship is "Hercules" and her present name is "Lefka Ori". Hercules plied between Iwanai (Hokkaido) and Naoetsu (Honshu) in Japan.
1,Greece-Italy International Lines
Kriti I (Ex-New Suzuran (1979), 27,667G/T) Shin Nihonkai Ferry
Kriti II(Ex-New Yukari (1979), 27,239G/T) Shin Nihonkai Ferry
Lefka Ori (Ex-Hercules (1992), 29,429G/T) Higashi Nihon Ferry
Sophocles V(Ex-Hermes (1990), 29,900G/T) Higashi Nihon Ferry
Talos (Ex-Green Arch (1975), Okudogo No.8 (82-91), 14,015G/T) Hiroshima Green Ferry
2,Greek Island Lines
Aptera (Ex- Pegasus (1973), Osaka (83-84), Pegasus (84-85), 12,286G/T) Taiyo Ferry
Arkadi (Ex-Bizan Maru (1983), 10,859G/T)
Candia (Ex- Central No.2 (1971), 7,291G/T) Central Ferry
Lato (Ex-Daisetsu (1975), Varuna (1987), 25,460G/T) Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry
Lissos (Ex-Ferry Hamanasu (1972), 20,454G/T) Shin Nihonkai Ferry
Prevelis (Ex-Ferry Orange No.2(1980), 9,900G/T)
Rethimnon (Ex-Central No.5 (1971), 7,291G/T) Central Ferry
Blue Star Ferries (Strintzis Lines)
Superferry Hellas (Ex-Varuna)
Blue Horizon (Ex-Varuna)
27,230G/T
Pass.Capacity:1600
Posted with permission from Michele Lulurgas, Adriatic and Aegean ferries,
http://www.geocities.com/mlulurgas/
Varuna
Higashi Nihon Ferry
Length:187.13m
Beam:27m
Draft:6.62m
16,725G/T
Pass.Capacity:680
1989-1998
"Varuna"was operated by "Higashi Nihon Ferry". She plied between Tomakomai (Hokkaido) and Sendai (Honshu).She was purchased by "Blue Star Ferry (Strintzis Lines)", and her present name is "Blue Horizon". I've never made a trip aboard this ship, but I've seen her in port of Nagasaki before. Now she plies between Venezia (Italy) and Patrai (Greece).
Ionian Victory (Ex-Sunflower Sapporo)
Posted with permission from Michele Lulurgas, Adriatic and Aegean ferries,
http://www.geocities.com/mlulurgas/
Blue Sky (Ex-Sunflower Sapporo)
19,539G/T
Pass.Capacity:1100
Sunflower Sapporo
Blue Highway Line
Length:164m
Beam:24m
Draft:6.62m
11,097.65G/T
Pass.Capacity:680
1974-1997
"Sunflower Sapporo" plied between Tokyo (Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido). She was operated by "Blue Highway Line", but "Blue Highway Line" was dissolved in 2001. Her present name is "Blue Sky" and plied between Venezia (Italy) and Patrai (Greece) now.
1,Greece-Italy International Lines
Blue Galaxy (Ex-Arkas (1972),17,691G/T) Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry
Blue Horizon (Ex-Varuna (1989), 27,230G/T) Higashi Nihon Ferry
Blue Island (Ex-Albireo (1973), 18,858G/T) Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry
Blue Sky (Ex-Sapporo Maru (1974),Sunflower Sapporo (91-98), 19,539G/T) Nihon Enkai Ferry
2,Greek Island Lines
Kefalonia (Ex-Venus (1975), 3,473G/T) Higashi Nihon Ferry
Med Link Lines
Maria G (Ex-OkudogoNo.3)
Posted with permission from Michele Lulurgas, Adriatic and Aegean ferries,
http://www.geocities.com/mlulurgas/
12,338G/T
Pass.Capacity:845
OkudogoNo.3
Ehime Hanshin Ferry
Length:141.2m
Beam:24m
Draft:5.2m
7,020.85G/T
Pass.Capacity:845
1976-1999
"Okudogo No.3" plied between Kobe (Honshu) and Imabari (Shikoku). She was operated by "Ehime Hanshin Ferry", but this company was dissolved in 2000 because of the completion of the bridge (Shimanami Kaido). Now her name is "Brindisi" and plies between Brindisi (Italy) and Patrai (Greece). She is a very old ship. Is she all right?
Ex-Japanese car ferries in Europe (2003-2004)
Greece (and the Philippines) are maritime museums of old Japanese ferries. You can see the history of Japanese ferry industries through these old ships.
Northern Europe
SWANSEA CORK FERRIES
Superferry (Cassiopeia,
Izu No.3)
She was built in 1972 by Hashihama Zosensho as the Cassiopea for
Ocean Ferry of Japan. She plied between Chiba (Honshu) and
Tokushima (Shikoku). In 1976 the company became Ocean Tokyu Ferry
with Tokyu Ferry and she was renamed the Izu No.3. She was used
on the service between Tokyo (Honshu) - Tokushima (Shikoku) -
Kokura (Kyushu). Her sister ship was the Albatross (Izu No.11,
now Patmos of Dane Sea Line).
Western Mediterranean
ALGÉRIE FERRIES
Çesme 1 (Albireo)
She was built in 1972 by the Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Albireo for Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry of Nagoya. She was used on the
service between Nagoya - Sendai - Tomakomai. Her sister ship was
the Arkas (later Ionian Galaxy, Blue Galaxy of Strintzis Lines).
Hoggar (Hibiscus)
She was built in 1971 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at Kobe,
Japan as the Hibiscus for Nippon Car Ferry. She plied between
Kawasaki (Honshu) and Hyuga (Kyushu). She was the 4th
Phenix-class ferry.
Tipasa (Phenix)
She was built in 1971 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at Kobe,
Japan as the Phenix for Nippon Car Ferry. She was the first
Japanese car ferry which was built by a major shipbuilder. She
was used on the service between Kawasaki(Honshu) - Hyuga
(Kyushu).
Zeralda (Bougainvillea)
She was built in 1971 by Nippon Kokan at Shimizu, Japan as the
Bougainvillea for Nippon Car Ferry. She was used on the service
between Osaka (Honshu) and Miyazaki (Kyushu), and was the 3rd
Phenix-class ferry.
CNAN GROUPE
Millennium Express (Takachiho Maru)
She was built in 1974 by Nippon Kokan at Shimizu, Japan as the
Takachiho Maru for Nippon Car Ferry. She operated the regular
service between Kawasaki (Honshu) and Hyuga (Kyushu) with her
sister ship Mimitsu Maru (now "Mary Queen of Peace" of
Negros Navigation of the Philippines). In 1990 the Nippon Car
Ferry sold their all assets to the Seacom Ferry of Japan and was
dissolved. In 1992 Seacom Ferry changed their name into the
Marine Express. The Takachiho Maru was transferred to the Osaka
(Honshu) - Miyazaki (Kyushu) route in 1993 and then to the Kobe
(Honshu) - Hyuga (Kyushu) route in 1996. In 1998 the route was
closed, and she was sold. Her service speed was 25.6 knots.
CMANAV
Salamis Star (Ferry Akashi)
She was built in 1972 by Kanda Zosensho as the Ferry Akashi for
Hankyu Ferry of Japan. She was the 6th ship for the Kobe (Honshu)
- Kokura (Kyushu) route. Her sister ship was the Ferry Nagato
(later Grace M, Felicia of Marlines).
GNMTC
Garyounis (Mashu)
She was built in 1973 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Mashu for Kinkai Yusen. She operated the regular service between
Tokyo (Hoshu) and Kushiro (Hokkaido) with her sister ship Marimo
(now "Princess of the World" of Sulpicio Lines, a
Philippine ferry operator).
GRANDI NAVI VELOCI
Victory (Victory)
She was build in 1989 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at Kobe,
Japan as the Victory for Higashi Nihon Ferry of Sapporo, Japan
for service between Muroran (Hokkaido) and Oarai (Honshu).
MARSEA
Hokkai (Hokkaido Maru)
She was built in 1976 by the Ishikawajima Ship and Chemical Plant
Co. at Sakaide, Japan as the Hokkaido Maru for Kawasaki Kinkai
Kisen of Japan. She was operated by Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen &
Nihon Enkai Ferry, and ran on the Tokyo (Honshu) - Tomakomai
(Hokkaido) route as a freight ferry.
TRAGHETTI POZZUOLI
Anna Maria D'abundo (Hayabusa No.1)
She was built in 1971 by Taguma Zosen at Innoshima, Japan for
Koshien Kosoku Ferry as the Hayabusa No.1. She plied between
Nishinomiya (Honshu) and Shizuki (Awaji Island).
Eastern Mediterranean
ADRIATIC SEAWAYS
Poseidon C (Suzuran Maru, Ferry Izu, Ferry Lilac, Utopia)
She was built in 1970 by Koyo dockyard at Mihara, Japan as the
Suzuran Maru for Shin Nihonkai Ferry of Osaka in Japan. She had a
unique dome on her bow in order to prevent high waves of the
Nihonkai(=Japan Sea) in winter and known as "Shin
Kansen(=new trunk line or bullet train ) of the sea" in
those days. She was the first car ferry for the Shin Nihonkai
Ferry and operated the Maizuru - Tsuruga (Honshu) - Otaru
(Hokkaido) route, and the Shin Nihonkai Ferry has grown into one
of the largest ferry operators of Japan. She was designed as a
primarily freight vessel and had few public rooms for passengers.
Her near sister was the Ferry Hamanasu (now Lissos of Anek
Lines). In 1975 Tokyu Ferry bought her and she was renamed to the
Ferry Izu. In 1977 Shin Nihonkai Ferry bought her back and she
was renamed as the Ferry Lilac. She was sold in 1980 to the Nishi
Nihon Kisen, one of the members of the SHK Line Group which
consisted of Shin Nihonkai Ferry, Hankyu Ferry, Kampu Ferry and
other companies, and was converted into a cruise ship for school
excursions and renamed the Utopia. (Later, the SHK Line Group
founded the Japan Cruise Line (Venus Cruise) in 1990.)
AGOUDIMOS LINES
Ionian Sky (Sapporo Maru, Sunflower Sapporo)
She was built in 1974 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Sapporo Maru for the Nihon
Enkai Ferry, which was one of companies of the Mitsui OSK group.
She operated the regular service between Tokyo (Honshu) and
Tomakomai (Hokkaido). From 1985 to 1987, she operated new ferry
service between Oarai (Honshu) and Tomakomai. In 1987 she was
transferred to the Tokyo - Tomakomai route. In 1990 Nihon Enkai
Ferry became Blue Highway Line, and she was renamed as the
Sunflower Sapporo.
ANEK LINES
Aptera (Pegasus)
She was built in 1973 by Hayashikane shipyard at Shimonoseki as
the Pegasus for Taiyo Ferry. She plied between Osaka (Honshu) and
Kanda (Kyushu) with her sister ship Orion (now Daedalus of Minoan
Lines). In 1977 Kyushu Kyuko Ferry bought her, and she was used
on the Tokyo (Honshu) - Kanda (Kyushu) route as a freight ferry.
From 1979 to 1981 she called at Matsusaka (Honshu). In 1983 she
retired.
Kriti I (New Suzuran)
She was built in 1979 by Koyo dockyard at Mihara, Japan as the
New Suzuran for the Shin Nihonkai Ferry and employed on a route
between Tsuruga (Honshu) and Otaru (Hokkaido) with her sister the
New Yukari. The Shin Nihonkai Ferry's ferries were known for
having their unique dome on the bow, but the unique dome was
abolished since the New Suzuran. In 1981 she was rebuilt in order
to increase a freight capacity and reduce a passenger capasity.
Kriti II (New Yukari)
She was built in 1979 by Koyo dockyard at Mihara, Japan as the
New Yukari for the Shin Nihonkai Ferry and employed on a route
between Tsuruga (Honshu) and Otaru (Hokkaido) with her sister the
New Suzuran. In 1981 she was rebuilt in order to increase a
freight capacity and reduce a passenger capasity.
Lato (Daisetsu, Varuna)
She was Built in 1975 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Daisetsu for Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry of Japan, and used on their
route between Nagoya, Sendai (Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido)
with her sister ship the Ishikari (now Erotokritos of Minoan
Lines). In 1985 Higashi Nihon Ferry bought her in order to open
the new ferry service between Muroran (Hokkaido) and Oarai
(Honshu), and she was renamed to the Varuna. In 1987 she was
replaced by the Varuna (II) (now Blue Horizon of Blue Star
Ferries) and sold to Anek.
Lefka Ori (Hercules)
She was built in 1991 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at
Shimonoseki, Japan as the Hercules for the Higashi Nihon Ferry of
Sapporo, Japan. She was used on their route between Naoetsu
(Honshu) and Muroran or Iwanai (Hokkaido). The Naoetsu - Iwanai
route was closed in 1999 and she was sold to Anek.
Lissos (Ferry Hamanasu)
She was built in 1972 by Koyo Dockyard at Mihara, Japan as the
Ferry Hamanasu for the Shin Nihonkai Ferry of Japan for their
service between Maizuru, Tsuruga (Honshu) and Otaru (Hokkaido),
and then she was transferred to the Niigata (Honshu) - Otaru
route with the Ferry Shirayuri(ex-Ferry Tone of Tokyu Ferry). Her
near sister was the Suzuran Maru (now Poseidon C of Adriatic
Seaways) and had a unique dome on her bow, too. She was also
designed as a primarily freight vessel.
Prevelis (Ferry Orange 2)
She was built in 1980 by Imabari Shipbuilding as the Ferry Orange
2 for the Shikoku Kaihatsu Ferry for the service between Osaka
(Honshu) and Toyo (Shikoku) with the New Orange, Ferry Osaka and
Ferry Ehime.
Sofokles V (Hermes)
She was built in 1990 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at
Shimonoseki, Japan as the Hermes, a sister ship to the Hercules
(now Anek's Lefka Ori) also for the Higashi Nihon Ferry of
Sapporo, Japan and used on their service between Naoetsu (Honshu)
and Iwanai (Hokkaido). The route was closed in 1999 and she was
sold to Anek with her sister ship.
ANEN LINES
Myrtidiotissa (Ferry Muroto)
She was built in 1975 by Kochi Juko as the Ferry Muroto for
Muroto Kisen for service between Kobe (Honshu), Kannoura and
Ashizuri (Shikoku). She was chartered by Kansai Kisen of Japan,
renamed the Kurushima Maru in 1982 and plied between Matsuyama
(Shikoku) and Kokura (Kyushu). In 1988 She was replaced by the
Ferry Kurushima and sold. (The Nichinan Maru of Kansai Kisen was
sold to Kurushima Dock and renamed the Ferry Muroto and entered
the service between Kobe, Kannoura and Ashizuri in 1982, but in
1987 she was replaced by the newly-built Ferry Muroto.)
BLUE STAR FERRIES
Blue Horizon (Varuna)
She was built in 1987 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at
Shimonoseki, Japan as the Varuna for the Higashi Nihon Ferry of
Japan as a primarily freight carrier on their route from Oarai
(Honshu) to Muroran (Hokkaido) on which she replaced the previous
ship of the same name (ex-Daisetsu of Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry) which
now sails as Anek's Lato. In 1989 the Victory entered service on
the route and she was transferred to the Sendai (Honshu) -
Tomakomai (Hokkaido) route.
Kefalonia (Venus)
She was built in 1975 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Venus for the Higashi Nihon Ferry of Japan. She plied between
Muroran (Hokkaido) and Ohata (Honshu).
CORFU - IGOUMENITSA
CONSORTIUM
Ekaterini P (Rokko Maru)
She was built in 1990 by Shin Kurushima Dock as the Rokko Maru
for Kansai Kisen of Japan. She plied between Kobe (Honshu) and
Takamatsu (Shikoku). Redundant following the opening of the
Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi bridge in 1998, she was sold.
Platitera (Chiezuru Maru)
She was built in 1990 at Nagasaki, Japan as the Chiezuru Maru for
the Awaji Ferry Boat to operate service from Suma (Kobe) to Oiso
(Awaji Island). Her sister ship was the Yukazuru Maru (now Agia
Theodora of Kerkyra Lines). The Awaji Ferry Boat was founded in
1965 by Mr. Toshio Iue, the founder of Sanyo Electric Co. Ltd.
for his home, Awaji Island. But the Awaji Ferry Boat was out of
business after the opening of the Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi bridge in
1998, and she was sold.
DANE SEA LINES (out of business)
Diagoras (New Tosa)
She was built in 1990 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the New
Tosa for the Osaka Kochi Tokkyu Ferry for service between Osaka
(Honshu) and Kochi (Shikoku).
Patmos (Albatross, Izu No.11)
She was built in 1972 by Hashihama Zosensho as the Albatross for
Ocean Ferry of Japan. She plied between Chiba (Honshu) and
Tokushima (Shikoku). In 1976 the company became Ocean Tokyu Ferry
with Tokyu Ferry and she was renamed the Izu No.11. She was used
on the service between Tokyo (Honshu) - Tokushima (Shikoku) -
Kokura (Kyushu). Her sister ship was the Cassiopeia (Izu No.3,
now Superferry of Swansea Cork Ferries).
Rodos (Argo, Ferry Kogane Maru, Pegasus)
She was built in 1973 by Nipponkai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd. as
the Argo for the Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry of Japan for the service
between Nagoya, Nachikatsuura (Honshu) and Oita (Kyushu) with her
sister ship Al Nasl (later Ebino of Nippon Car Ferry, now San
Lorenso Ruiz of Negros Navigation of the Philippines) but was
sold to the Kansai Kisen in 1980 and renamed as the Ferry Kogane
Maru for service between Osaka, Kobe (Honshu) and Beppu (Kyushu)
with the Ferry Nishiki Maru (ex-Orion, now Daedalus of Minoan
Lines). She was rebuilt by the Kurushima Dock Co. Ltd. in 1983
and in 1984 she was bought by Taiyo Ferry of Osaka as the Pegasus
(she is not the ex-Pegasus, now Anek's Aptera) for the Meimon
Taiyo Ferry's service between Osaka (Honshu) and Shin Moji
(Kyushu). She was replaced by the New Pegasus in 1989.
GA FERRIES
Daliana (Ferry Pearl)
She was built in 1970 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Ferry Pearl for the Diamond
Ferry. She plied between Kobe (Honshu), Matsuyama (Shikoku) and
Oita (Kyushu) with her sister ship Ferry Gold. At first she
didn't treat foot passengers. In 1980 she was lengthened to
increase her capacity. She was replaced by the Queen Diamond in
1986 and retired.
Marina (Green Ace, Okudogo 6)
She was built in 1971 by Kanda Zosensho as the Green Ace for the
Hiroshima Green Ferry. She plied between Osaka and Hiroshima with
her sister ship Green Arrow (now Express Aris of Hellas Ferries)
and her running mate Green Arch (now Ierapetra of Lane Lines).
The Hiroshima Green Ferry was out of business in 1982. She was
sold to the Kurushima Dock and renamed the Okudogo 6. The Okudogo
is a name of the resort which was developed by the Kurushima Dock
group. She was operated by the Diamond Ferry which was one of
members of the Kurushima Dock group in those days, plied between
Kobe (Honshu), Matsuyama (Shikoku) and Oita (Kyushu).
Milena (Ferry Gold)
She was built in 1970 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Ferry Gold for the Diamond
Ferry. She plied between Kobe (Honshu), Matsuyama (Shikoku) and
Oita (Kyushu) with her sister ship Ferry Perl. At first she
didn't treat foot passengers. In 1980 she was lengthened to
increase her capacity. She was replaced by the Ferry Diamond in
1986 and retired.
Rodanthi (Virgo)
She was built in 1974 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Virgo for the Shin Higashi Nihon Ferry for service between
Tomakomai (Hokkaido) and Sendai (Honshu) with her sister ship
Vega (now Mytilene of NEL Lines). In 1984 the Shin Higashi Nihon
Ferry was absorbed into the Higashi Nihon Ferry, their parent
company. From 1984 to 1989, she was laid up.
GOUTOS LINES
Macedon (Ferry Nankai No.1)
She was built in 1972 by Taguma Zosen (now Naikai Zosen) in Japan
as the Ferry Nankai No.1 for Nankai Chuo Ferry of Izumiotsu,
Japan. She plied between Izumiotsu (Honshu) and Shizuki (Awaji
Island) with her running mate Shizuki Maru of Kansai Kisen. She
was laid up in 1976.
HELLAS FLYING DOLPHINS
HELLAS FERRIES
Express Aris (Green Arrow)
She was built in 1972 by Kanda Zosensho as the Green Arrow for
the Hiroshima Green Ferry.She plied between Osaka and Hiroshima
with her running mates the Green Ace (now Marina of GA Ferries)
and Green Arch (now Ierapetra of Lane Lines).
SARONIKOS FERRIES
Nefeli (Mukogawa)
She was built in 1990 as the Mukogawa for Koshien Kosoku Ferry
and employed on a route between Nishinomiya (Honshu) and Tsuna
(Awaji Island). Her predecessor was the Hayabusa No.5
(ex-Michishio). But the Koshien Kosoku Ferry was out of business
after the opening of the Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi bridge in 1998, and
she was sold.
TRAILER FERRIES
Cielotrailer (Tokyo Maru)
She was built in 1976 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Tokyo Maru for the Kyushu
Kyuko Ferry for their Tokyo - Kanda route. But the Kyushu Kyuko
Ferry could not be authorized to operate her and she was sold to
the Nihon Enkai Ferry & Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen (a co-owner).
She was the so-called freight ferry and plied between Tokyo
(Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido) with her sister ship Tomakomai
Maru.
Navetrailer (Tomakomai Maru)
She was built in 1976 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Tomakomai Maru for the
Kyushu Kyuko Ferry for their Tokyo - Kanda route. But the Kyushu
Kyuko Ferry could not be authorized to operate her and she was
sold to the Nihon Enkai Ferry. She was the so-called freight
ferry and plied between Tokyo (Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido)
with her sister ship Tokyo Maru.
JADROLINIJA
Brestova (Bisan)
She was built in 1965 by Fujiwara Zosensho at Omishima Island,
Japan for Shikoku Kisen of Takamatsu, Japan as the Bisan. She
plied between Takamatsu (Shikoku), Miyaura (Naoshima Island) and
Uno (Honshu), and was replaced by the Asahi in 1998.
Lastovo (Ishizuchi)
She was built in 1970 by Kurushima Dock Co. Ltd at Imabari, Japan
as the Ishizuchi for Shikoku Chuo Ferry Boat. She plied between
Kawanoe (Shikoku) and Kobe (Honshu).
Lubenice (Seto)
She was built in 1983 by Fujiwara Zosensho at Omishima Island,
Japan for Shikoku Kisen of Takamatsu, Japan as the Seto. She
plied between Takamatsu (Shikoku), Miyaura (Naoshima Island) and
Uno (Honshu), and was replaced by the Asahi in 1998.
Valun (Koraku Maru)
She was built in 1983 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding &
Engineering Co. Ltd. at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Koraku Maru for
Utaka Kokudo Ferry of Takamatsu, Japan for their Uno (Honshu) -
Takamatsu (Shikoku) route.
KARISTOS FERRIES
Marmari
Express (Naruo)
She was built in 1985 at Shinhama, Japan as the Naruo
for the Koshien Kosoku Ferry to operate service from Nishinomiya
(Honshu) to Sizuki (Awaji Island). In 1998, the Akashi Kaikyo
Ohashi bridge was opened. She was laid up and sold.
KERKYRA LINES
Agia Theodora (Yukazuru Maru)
She was built in 1989 at Nagasaki, Japan as the Yukazuru Maru for
the Awaji Ferry Boat to operate service from Suma (Kobe) to Oiso
(Awaji Island). Her sister ship was the Chiezuru Maru (now
Platitera of Corfu - Igoumenitsa Consortium). The Awaji Ferry
Boat was founded in 1965 by Mr. Toshio Iue, the founder of Sanyo
Electric Co. Ltd. for his home, Awaji Island. But the Awaji Ferry
Boat was out of business after the opening of the Akashi Kaikyo
Ohashi bridge in 1998, and she was sold.
Agios Spiridon (Shirahama, Salvia)
She was built in 1972 as the Shirahama for Shinki Ferry of Kobe,
Japan for service between Kobe, Kainan and Shirahama (a resort).
Later she was moved to Nippon Car Ferry and renamed as the Salvia
for service between Hiroshima (Honshu) and Hyuga (Kyushu).
LANE LINES
Ierapetral (Green Arch, Okudogo 8)
She was built in 1975 by Kanda Zosensho as the Green Arch for the
Hiroshima Green Ferry. She plied between Osaka and Hiroshima with
her sister ship Green Ace (now Marina of GA Ferries) and her
running mate Green Arrow (now Express Aris of Hellas Ferries).
The Hiroshima Green Ferry was out of business in 1982. She was
sold to the Kurushima Dock and renamed the Okudogo 8. The Okudogo
is a name of the resort which was developed by the Kurushima Dock
group. She was operated by the Diamond Ferry which was one of
members of the Kurushima Dock group in those days, plied between
Kobe (Honshu), Matsuyama (Shikoku) and Oita (Kyushu).
MARITIME WAY
Erotokritos (Ishikari)
She was built in 1974 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Ishikari for the Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry. She plied between Nagoya,
Sendai (Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido) with her running mates
Albireo (now Cesme 1 of Algerie Ferries) and later Kiso (HFD
bought her in 2004). Her sister ship was the Daisetsu (later
Varuna, now Lato of Anek Lines). She was lengthened in 1980 to
increase freight capacity. In 1982 the Taiheiyo Enkai Ferry sold
their all assets to the newly-established Taiheiyo Ferry.
King Minos (Erimo Maru)
She was built in 1972 by Kanesashi Shipbuilding at Shimizu, Japan
as the Erimo Maru for the Nihon Enkai Ferry of Japan. She plied
between Tokyo (Honshu) and Tomakomai (Hokkaido) with her sister
ship Shiretoko Maru (later N. Kazantzakis of Minoan Lines). In
1987 she was replaced by the Oarai Maru (later Sunflower Oarai of
Blue Highway Line, now Shuttle Oita of Shuttle Highway Line, a
Japanese newly-established ferry operator).
MED EUROPEAN SEAWAYS
Capitain Zaman (Ferry Atsuta)
She was built in 1972 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Co. Ltd. at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Ferry Atsuta for Meimon Car
Ferry of Nagoya, Japan. She plied between Nagoya, Yokkaichi
(Honshu) and Shin Moji (Kyushu) with her sister ship Ferry
Kashii.
MED LINES
Arielle (Ishikari Maru)
She was built in 1976 by Hitachi Zosen as the Ishikari Maru
(III), a train ferry for use by JNR (Japan National Railways) .
She plied between Hakodate (Hokkaido) and Aomori (Honshu) as the
so-called "Seikan Renrakusen(=ferry)." Redundant
following the opening of the Seikan Tunnel, the longest channel
tunnel in the world in 1988, she was sold to Hong Kong interests.
MILLILIS LINES
Evia Star (Hayabusa No.3)
She was built in 1980 by Hakodate Dock as the Hayabusa No.3 for
Kyouei Unyu of Hakodate for their service between Hakodate
(Hokkaido) and Aomori (Honshu). She was replaced by the Hayabusa
No.3 of 2001 in 2001.
MINOAN LINES
Daedalus (Orion, Ferry Nishiki Maru, Orion)
She was built in 1973 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki as the Orion for Taiyo Ferry of Japan. She
plied between Osaka (Honshu) and Kanda (Kyushu) with her sister
ship Pegasus (now Aptera of Anek Lines). She was chartered by
Fuji Ferry to use on their route from Tokyo to Matsusaka in 1978.
In 1980 Kansai Kisen bought her, renamed as the Ferry Nishiki
Maru, and operated service between Osaka, Kobe (Honshu) and Beppu
(Kyushu). She was rebuilt by the Kurushima Dock Co. Ltd. in 1983
and in the following year was resold to Taiyo Ferry, and resumed
her original name of Orion. Taiyo Ferry and Meimon Car Ferry
founded the Meimon Taiyo Ferry in 1984. She was operated the
service between Osaka (Honshu) and Shin Moji (Kyushu) by Meimon
Taiyo Ferry. In 1989 she was replaced by the New Orion.
NEL LINES
Mytilene (Vega)
She was built in 1973 by Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Vega for the Shin Higashi Nihon Ferry for service between
Tomakomai (Hokkaido) and Sendai (Honshu) with her sister ship
Virgo (now Rodanthi of GA Ferries). In 1984 the Shin Higashi
Nihon Ferry was absorbed into the Higashi Nihon Ferry, their
parent company.
SAOS LINES
Panagia Kremiotissa (Tsukushi, Hankyu No.16)
She was built in 1973 by Kanda Zosensho as the Tsukushi for the
Nishi Nihon Ferry. In 1975 Nishi Nihon Ferry sold their all
assets to the Hankyu Ferry and dissolved. She was renamed as the
Hankyu No.16 and plied between Kobe (Honshu) and Kokura (Kyushu).
In 1984, the Pukwan Ferry, a South Korean ferry operator bought
her, and renamed to the Ferry Pukwan. She plied between
Shimonoseki(Japan) and Pusan (S. Korea).
TYROGALAS LINES
Ionian Star (Niihama 2)
She was built in 1984 by Kochi Juko in Japan as the Niihama 2 for
Shikoku Chuo Ferry Boat. She plied between Kobe (Honshu), Kawanoe
and Niihama (Shikoku) with her sister ship Kawanoe 2. She was
laid up in 1989 and sold to Kukjae Express Ferry, a South Korean
ferry operator in 1990, and renamed as the Kukjae Express Ferry 2
for service between Mokpo and Cheju Island of South Korea, and
was again renamed in 1999 as the Sea World Express Ferry.
VENTOURIS FERRIES
Ionis (Ferry Naniwa)
She was built in 1971 by Koyo Dockyard at Mihara, Japan as the
Ferry Naniwa for Osaka Kochi Tokkyu Ferry for service between
Osaka (Honshu) and Kochi (Shikoku).
VIVAL MARINE
Palladia (Ferry Hankyu)
She was built in 1968 by Hayashikane Shipbuilding and Engineering
Company at Shimonoseki, Japan as the Ferry Hankyu for Hankyu
Ferry. She was the historic first long distance car ferry of
Japan. The mixture of a growing economy and congested roads
resulted in the concept of ferry-based traffic promoted by Mr.
Hoshu Iritani, the president of Kanko Kisen. His efforts were
rewarded with great success, and followed his example spawning
the ferry operations in the previous table. The concept of
Japanese long distance car ferries has been a "Motorways of
the Sea" for lorries. In 1976 she became a spare ship.
ZAKYNTHOS A.N.M.E.
Andreas Kalvos (Esan Maru No.5)
She was built in 1985 by the Naikai Zosen at Setoda, Japan as the
Esan Maru No.5 as a freight ferry for the Donan Jidosha(=Car)
Ferry. She plied between Hakodate (Hokkaido) and Aomori (Honshu).
She was replaced by the Esan 2000 in 2000.
Dionissos Solomos (Royal Kawanoe)
She was built in 1990 by Sanoyas Hishino Meisho at Mizushima
(Kurashiki), Japan as the Royal Kawanoe for the Shikoku Chuo
Ferry of Niihama. She plied between Niihama, Kawanoe (Shikoku)
and Kobe (Honshu) with her sister ship Royal Niihama.
Vessels not currently operating
Elli T (Okudogo 3)
She was built in 1976 by Kochi Juko as the Okudogo 3. She was
operated by Ehime Hanshin Ferry of Japan, and plied between Kobe
(Honshu), Imabari (Shikoku) and Matsuyama (Shikoku).
Sea Serenade (Sorachi Maru)
She was built in 1976 by Hakodate Dock at Hakodate, Japan as the
Sorachi Maru (II), a train ferry for use by JNR (Japan National
Railways) . She plied between Hakodate (Hokkaido) and Aomori
(Honshu) as the so-called "Seikan Renrakusen(=ferry)."
Redundant following the opening of the Seikan Tunnel, the longest
channel tunnel in the world in 1988, she was sold.
New Comers
Agoudimos Lines
New Akashia
She was built in 1988 by Ishikawajima Harima Heavy Industries at
Kure, Japan as the New Akashia for Shin Nihonkai Ferry of Osaka,
Japan. She plied between Maizuru (Honshu) and Otaru (Hokkaido)
with her running mates Ferry Lilac (now "Princess of the
Star" of Sulpicio Lines of the Philippines) and Ferry
Lavender. In 2004 she was replaced by the two luxury fast
ferries, Hamanasu & Akashia.
Ferry Lavender
She was built in 1991 by Ishikawajima Harima Heavy Industries at
Tokyo & Aioi, Japan as the Ferry Lavender for Shin Nihonkai
Ferry of Osaka, Japan. She plied between Maizuru (Honshu) and
Otaru (Hokkaido) with her running mates Ferry Lilac (now
"Princess of the Star" of Sulpicio Lines of the
Philippines) and New Akashia. In 2004 she was replaced by the two
luxury fast ferries, Hamanasu & Akashia.
Hellas Ferries
Kiso
She was built in 1987 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at
Shimonoseki, Japan as the Kiso for Taiheiyo Ferry of Nagoya,
Japan. Her predecessor, Arkas (later Ionian Galaxy, Blue Galaxy)
was sold to Strintzis Lines in 1987. The Kiso was the so-called
cruiseferry, and plied between Nagoya, Sendai (Honshu) and
Tomakomai (Hokkaido). She will be replaced by the luxury Kiso
(II) in 2005.
Erotokritos (Ex-Ishikari (1974), 23,888G/T)
Minoan Lines
Posted with permission from Michele Lulurgas, Adriatic and Aegean ferries,
http://www.geocities.com/mlulurgas/
Typically, Japanese ferries have spacious Japanese public baths (grand bath) with large ocean-view windows and Japanese style (tatami) rooms. But these ferries are reconstructed into European ferries. Do you want to look in "Inside of Greek Ferries"? Click next.
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05/10/13