The first ferry from Turkey was not allowed to Sochi for many years: EADaily

The First Ferry from Turkey to Sochi Was Denied Entry

The ferry Seabridge from Turkey attempted to enter Sochi, Russia, but was refused access, marking a failed "sea bridge" initiative, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).

Details of the Ferry's Voyage

The ferry departed from a Turkish port the previous night and reached the Sochi port area around 10 a.m. Since arrival, it has remained anchored in the roadstead. Onboard are 20 passengers—2 Turkish and 18 Russian citizens.

Background and Response

The ferry service between Turkey and Russia had been suspended since September 2011. This trip was expected to be the first after a 14-year hiatus, but the Russian authorities denied entry to Seabridge. Liderline, the operator of the ferry line, confirmed all documentation was correctly prepared.

Current Situation and Official Actions

As of the evening of November 6, the ferry remained 19 km from Sochi's port. Russian border guards were inspecting documents aboard the ship. The ferry has adequate food supplies for 10 days and will return to Trabzon only once all passengers disembark.

“The ferry anchored 19 kilometers from the coast, where border guards began checking documents from the ship's representatives.” — Rossiyskaya Gazeta

Additional Context

Meanwhile, military exercises aimed at defending against sea drone attacks were conducted at the seaport of Sochi.

Summary: The attempted reopening of the ferry route from Turkey to Sochi failed as Russian authorities denied entry, continuing the suspension of this service since 2011 despite proper paperwork and a full passenger manifest.

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EADaily EADaily — 2025-11-07

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