Crown Iris Cancels Port Call on Syros Amid Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations

A recent pro-Palestinian demonstration on Syros Island in Greece forced the Israeli-operated cruise ship Crown Iris to cancel its planned port call. The protest, involving about 150 to 300 locals, occurred on July 22, 2025, and aimed to express opposition to the ongoing military actions in Gaza. Demonstrators gathered at the dock carrying Palestinian flags and banners with messages such as "Stop the Genocide" and "No a/c in hell," effectively blocking the ship from disembarking approximately 1,700 passengers.

In response to the situation, the captain of the Crown Iris opted to sail directly to Limassol, Cyprus, prioritizing safety and comfort for all aboard. Although no violence erupted during the protest, some tension was felt among passengers, particularly families with children, while a few waved Israeli flags and chanted in support of their nation. The vessel was reported to be secure throughout the incident.

Local groups participating in the demonstration, including one called We Stay Active, made clear their objective was rooted in a moral stance against what they see as an unjust war in their neighboring region. They proclaimed that those involved in the conflict—including soldiers and their supporters—were unwelcome on the island.

The ship’s owner, Mano Maritime, acknowledged the blockade’s impact on disembarkation and confirmed that rerouting was the best course of action given the circumstances. Meanwhile, the incident attracted diplomatic attention, with Israel’s Foreign Minister reaching out to Greek officials to ensure the protection of travelers’ rights, emphasizing the need to separate tourism from political conflicts.

This event highlights how protests in geopolitically sensitive areas can disrupt cruise itineraries and necessitate quick adaptations by maritime operators in light of security considerations. The Crown Iris’s redirected course to Cyprus serves as a testament to the need for vigilant leadership and operational flexibility in the face of evolving situations.

For more incidents related to the Crown Iris, see its CruiseMinus page.

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