Ferry Collides with Another Vessel and Pier in Istanbul

The port at Sirkeci, Istanbul at sunset
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Updated Published

On October 6, the Turkey-flagged ferry Okmeydani was involved in a collision with another ferry before crashing into the pier at Sirkeci, Istanbul. Fortunately, no passenger injuries were reported.

The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. local time at the Sirkeci Ferry Terminal in Eminönü. Early findings suggest that the Okmeydani suffered a steering system malfunction as it attempted to dock. The vessel first struck the BUDO ferry, operated by the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality, which was moored nearby, before colliding with the pier and causing visible structural damage.

Emergency responders, including police and paramedics, quickly arrived at the scene, ensuring the safe evacuation of all passengers aboard the Okmeydani. Shortly afterward, the Galatasaray ferry was dispatched to tow the damaged vessel to a secure location for further inspection.

Authorities have since opened an investigation to determine the root cause of the steering failure and evaluate the extent of the damage sustained by both the vessel and the terminal.