A group of passengers ignoring the smoking ban aboard a Greek ferry has triggered the vessel's automated fire suppression system, drenching travelers and the ship's interior lounge as the Nissos Samos sailed toward Chios and Lesvos.
The incident occurred when passengers lit cigarettes in a restricted area, activating high-sensitivity smoke sensors that discharged the overhead sprinkler system.
Water flooded the cabin, causing panic among travelers and minor damage to the vessel's interior.
No injuries were reported.
Crew members intervened to manage the situation and deactivate the system.
The Nissos Samos continued on its scheduled route after order was restored.
The Hellenic Coast Guard reiterated that smoking in enclosed areas aboard passenger vessels constitutes a serious safety violation under Greek maritime law, carrying the risk of criminal charges.
The prohibition exists primarily because fire at sea — with limited escape routes and emergency response capacity — is among the most dangerous scenarios in passenger shipping.
The incident is the latest in a recurring pattern of passengers flouting fire safety rules on Greek ferries, despite prominent warnings posted throughout vessels and repeated enforcement campaigns by maritime authorities.
Greek ferries carry millions of passengers annually across Aegean and Ionian routes, and fire safety compliance is considered critical given the distance of many routes from emergency services.
Coast Guard officials said an investigation into the incident has been opened and those responsible may face charges.