The Israeli-owned cruise ship Crown Iris received a false bomb threat over VHF radio while preparing to leave the Greek island of Syros on November 3.
The ship had arrived in Ermoupoli that morning. Local police had barred leftist protesters from demonstrating at the pier, citing concerns about public order. Passengers were able to go ashore, with a large police presence in place.
Before the vessel’s departure, the threat prompted the Hellenic Coast Guard to carry out a security sweep. The crew paused dinner service and disembarked all 940 passengers while the search was underway. A canine unit checked areas above the waterline, and a private diver inspected the hull. No suspicious objects were found. Passengers then returned to the ship, which continued to Haifa.
The incident follows earlier confrontations involving Crown Iris in Greece. During a Syros visit in July 2025, protests became disorderly and passengers ashore had water thrown at them. The crew was recalled, and the ship departed for its next port rather than risk further unrest.
In December 2025, the World Federation of Trade Unions and the Workers Militant Front also opposed a scheduled repair period for the 34-year-old vessel in Piraeus, urging other unions not to work on board.
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