NAVIRA NON-PROFIT COMPANY

18g

The consequences of the crisis; British ships massively laid up in the River Fal.

17c

A postcard depicting the port of Smyrne at times, when the Greeks demonstrated significant commercial and maritime activity.

19b

Press cuttings from the magazine The Illustrated London News, dated 23 September 1922, referring to the tragic events in Smyrne.

19. THE ASIA MINOR CATASTROPHE

In September 1922, Greece experienced the tragedy of the Asia Minor catastrophe that had the country plagued over a long period. The Greek merchant fleet was instrumental in securing the safe passage of a large number of immigrants to their homeland. In the years that followed, these immigrants decisively contributed in enhancing the financial and cultural status of the country.

19a

The Akti Miaouli after the Asia Minor catastrophe.

84a

President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Karamanlis at an event to mark the 75th anniversary of the Union of Greek Shipowners on 5 December 1991 and, above, congratulating the keynote speaker, lawyer George Daniolos.

87a

The 1991-built OLYMPIC SERENITY was the first double-hulled aframax crude oil carrier in a new era of tanker construction, following incidents of heavy pollution that involved tankers such as the EXXON VALDEZ.

87c

Photos demonstrating the shipbuilding activity of Greek shipowners in the 1990s.

84d

Minister of Merchant Marine George Katsifaras speaking to the Press after a meeting of members of the UGS board with Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou in 1993. Pictured, on the left, is the president of the UGS John Goumas.

84b

From a reception hosted by the Ministry of Merchant Marine in September 1992. From left, UGS President John Goumas, Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis, Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee Chairman John A. Hadjipateras, Minister of Merchant Marine Aristotelis Pavlidis, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping Costas Comninos, and shipowner Michael Peraticos.

84c

Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis at the opening of Posidonia 1992.

84e

Photos from meetings of the UGS board with leaders of the opposition in 1993. Above, with Aleka Papariga at the offices of the Communist Party of Greece and below, with the leader of New Democracy Miltiades Evert.

85a

Pericles Panagopulos pictured with his son Alexandros, during the presentation of his pioneering initiative to have the SUPERFAST ferries built in Germany.

85b

The 1992-built ZENITH, one of five luxury cruise ships built between 1990 and 1997 to the order of Celebrity Cruises, established by John and Michael D. Chandris.

85c

The 2000-built Greek-flagged KNOSSOS PALACE was the first of four sister ships delivered to Minoan Lines by Italian shipbuilders.

85d

The 1995-built Greek-flagged ARETOUSA delivered to Minoan Lines, served the Greece-Italy line.

86d

An article in the Surveyor magazine of the American Bureau of Shipping in June 1998, referring to the competitiveness of the Greek registry.

86e

The main article of the British newspaper Lloyd’s List, dated 20 March 1998, referring to the importance of Greek shipping for Europe.

86c

Press cuttings of the British newspaper Lloyd’s List, dated 11 and 14 April 2000, referring to consecutive changes in the office of the ministry of Merchant Marine.

86a

The cover and an article in Lloyd’s Ship Manager magazine in March 1997, referring to the introduction of the ISM Code. Since the early 1990s, world shipping has been plagued by an unusually high number of complicated rules and regulations that are hampering its operation to a great extent.

10a

The Neorion facility at the time of the Conference.

10. THE FIRST MARITIME CONFERENCE

In September 1902, the first maritime conference was held in Hermoupolis, in which issues concerning Greek merchant shipping were discussed. Among the major issues raised at the Conference was the establishment of schools for the training of master mariners and engineers, the adoption and implementation of legislation on maritime mortgages, the establishment of a maritime bank in Greece, marine insurance matters, and the possibility of having steamships built in Greece with state aid.

10b

The cover page of the book referring to the Maritime Conference of 1902.

11a

The ports of Genoa, Marseille, Antwerp, Hamburg, London, Rotterdam, Saint Nazaire and Trieste.

11b

The port of Smyrne.

11c

The port of Piraeus.

12a

The Georgios F. Andreadis family from the island of Chios.

12b

The 1902-built steamship D. NEGROPONTES of the Saliaris family from Chios.

12g

Τhe Dracoulis family and their brother-in-law captain George Gratsos (standing right) all from the island of Ithaca. The 1892-built steamship ODYSSEUS was their first steamship, acquired in 1903.

12j

Constantinos J. Hadjipateras, Panaghiotis M. Lemos (standing right) and Constantis D. Pateras, three of the nine partners of the 1891-built MARIETTA RALLI, the first Oinoussian steamship acquired in 1905. Standing, left, is Greek banker Xenophon Siderides from Constantinople, who provided financing for the acquisition of the ship. On the left, a photo with the group of people on board the MARIETTA RALLI. Pictured far right is Christos M. Lemos, one of the nine co-owners and the first captain of the steamship.

12i

Leonidas Zarifis, a prominent member of the Greek community in Constantinople. Apart from being a shipowner himself, he provided financing to several Greek master mariners to acquire steamships. One of these was the 1887-built steamship VASSILAKIS.

12k

Theodoros Pangalos, a Chian banker residing in Syros, provided loans for the acquisition of steamships. One of these was the 1893-built steamship PANGALOS.

13a

Τhe entrance and the interior of the Greek pavilion at the International Maritime Exhibition of Bordeaux.

13b

A postcard of the Exhibition.

12d

The steamship DESPINA G. MICHALINOS was built in 1907 for the Michalinos family interests.

12c

Master Mariner Basil Rethymnis, from the island of Kassos, with his sons Nicolaos and Minas and his wife Marigo. Seated, second from left, Evgenia Pneumaticos, and third from left her brother, Michael Pneumaticos.

12e

The British-flagged steamship FRIXOS built in 1907 for the Andreas Embiricos Sons from Andros.

12f

Master mariner and shipowner, Petros J. Goulandris from Andros.

14b

A postcard of New York, a city that attracted a large number of Greek immigrants, in the early 20th century.

14. GREEK TRANSATLANTIC LINERS

Traditional master mariners from the island of Andros, who became steamship owners, established a transatlantic passenger service, which served the country’s interests and especially the critical sector of immigration.

14c

Following the collapse of the Moraitis establishment, the transatlantic itineraries were served by National Steam Navigation of Greece, an enterprise founded by A. Embiricos Sons, headed by Leonidas A. Embiricos (in the picture) who later on emerged as one of the most renowned Greek shipowners. Their first transatlantic liner was the 1909-built PATRIS, pictured here with a founding share of the owning company.

13c

Epaminondas C. Embiricos offered invaluable services to the Greek shipping industry. As a politician, he introduced a legislation to cover maritime mortgages.

13d

Τhe first page of a book on the Greek Merchant Marine, specially written by Epaminondas C. Embiricos on the occasion of the Exhibition.

14a

The first Greek transatlantic liner MORAITIS, pictured with an advertisement informing his itineraries, was built in 1907 by J. Priestman & Co., Sunderland, UK, for the Hellenic Transatlantic Steam Navigation Co. of master mariner and shipowner Dimitrios Moraitis, in the picture. His initiative had a sad ending.

14d

The island of Andros, in the early 20th century.

12h

The steamship EUGENIE S. EMBIRICOS, was built in 1907 in the UK to the order of Stamatis G. Embiricos.

15a

Greek steamships ready to sail from the port of Piraeus during the Balkan Wars.

15b

Some of the merchant ships that participated in the Balkan Wars.

15e

On 3 January 1913, the National Steam Navigation of Greece-owned newly-built passenger liner MAKEDONIA, sustained serious damages while at the port of Syros after being hit by an Ottoman cruiser.

17b

An article published in the British magazine The Shipping World referring to the November 1920 Greek elections.

17a

The cover of the French issue Le Journal des Hellenes depicting the new map of Greece at the end of the second decade of the 20th century and an inside photo, depicting Eleftherios Venizelos and the Greek delegation at the Peace Conference in 1919. Τext from the edition Ellinikon Emporikon Naytikon (Greek Merchant Marine) 1821-1924 by S. Metaxas and S. Georgopoulos.

18a

Stamatios G. Embiricos from Andros, a renowned shipping personality invested huge amounts in having ships built to his order after the War. Despite the unprecedented losses, his shipping enterprise survived thanks to his robust financial position.

18b

A press cutting from the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 18 February 1920, outlining the exorbitant prices paid for the acquisition of tonnage from the end of WWI until the early months of 1920.

18c

A press cutting from the British magazine The Shipbuilder (Vol. XXVI) depicting the Greek steamship EIRINI KYRIAKIDES, built in 1922 for N. G. Kyriakides.

18d

A press cutting from the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 3 September 1919, depicting the Greek steamship ROKOS VERGOTTIS, built in 1919 for Panaghis Vergottis.

18e

A press cutting from the British magazine The Shipping World depicting the Greek steamship PANAGHIS, built in 1920 for N. D. Lykiardopulo.

18f

An article published in the Greek financial magazine Ploutos, dated 5 January 1920, referring to post-war ship acquisitions by Greeks.

18h

A press cutting of the British magazine The Shipping World, dated June 1, 1921, referring to the dramatic drop in ship values.

18i

An article published in the October 1921 issue of The Nautical Magazine describing the dramatic consequences following the rapid drop in ship values.

18j

The Greek steamship EVANGELOS, built in 1919 at Hong Kong for E. Ambatielos. Following the dramatic drop in ship values, the ship was sold in auction together with the entire fleet of the above shipowner.

19d

A press cutting from the magazine L’Illustration, dated 30 September 1922, referring to the Asia Minor catastrophe.

19c

A steamship of the A. Embiricos Bros. fleet transporting masses of Greek refugees to the homeland.

21h

The 1905-built Greek steamship NICOLAOS PATERAS, acquired in 1923 by Nicolaos I. Pateras.

21g

The crew of the 1897-built Greek steamship EVGENIA, acquired in 1922 by the Chandris family.

21i

The 1903-built Greek steamship FRINTON, acquired in 1927 by the Inglessis family.

21d

The Greek steamship HADIOTIS, built in 1929 at Northumberland Shipbuilding Company Ltd., for Kassos Steam Navigation.

21e

The launching of the Greek steamship THETIS by W. Gray & Co. Ltd., Sunderland, UK in 1929. The vessel was built to the order of Elias Hadjilias.

21a

View of the Piccadilly Circus, London in the 1920s. The British capital hosted most of the entrepreneurial activity of Greek shipowners during the interwar period. Panaghis H. Vergottis, a renowned shipping personality, acted as the first chairman of the Advisory Committee established by the Union of Greek Shipowners in London in the early 1920s. Manuel E. Kulukundis (left) and Minas B. Rethymnis, co-founders of the Rethymnis & Kukukundis Ltd. office in London in 1921. An article published in the 6 June 1928 issue of The Shipping World, featuring the text of a letter referring to the sale of old ships.

21b

The Greek steamship GEORGE M. LIVANOS, built in 1928 at Robert Thompson & Sons., Ltd., Sunderland for Livanos Bros.

21f

The 1892-built Greek steamship ΑΙΚΑΤΕRINI M. GOULANDRIS, acquired in 1925 by Kyrtatas Bros.

21c

The Greek steamship THEMONI, built in 1929 by Northumberland Shipbuilding Company Ltd., for Kassos Steam Navigation.

21j

Members of the crew of the 1905-built Greek steamship ATLAS.

21. GROWTH IN CHALLENGING TIMES

Following the political turmoil in Greece, after the defeat of Venizelos in the November 1920 elections, Greek shipowners were forced to continue their maritime activities abroad and especially from the City in London. Their dynamic growth, achieved through continuous purchases of second-hand steamships, especially of old age, started concerning their British counteparts. Despite the fact that Greeks were obliged to pay extra insurance premiums, their fleet continued growing, incorporating even newbuildings constructed at UK shipyards.

20d

The Wall Street Crash of 1929, brought chaos to the global economy and consequently to the world shipping industry.

20c

A coal delivery certificate related to the Greek steamship FRANGOULA B. GOULANDRIS. The General Strike in the UK led to the disappearance of British coal from the market, leading to the emergence of new markets for the supply of this commodity.

20a

A press cutting from The Illustrated London News, dated 8 September 1923, referring to the catastrophic earthquake in Japan. The situation led to a significant increase in seaborne transportation.

20b

A press cutting from the Daily Mail, dated 7 May 1926 referring to the General Strike in the UK.

87b

An article of magazine Seatrade Week Newsfront, dated 21-27 May 1993, referring to the shipbuilding activity of Greek shipowners.

57e

From left, an article published in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, dated 6 August 1964, on Greek shipping. The other articles, published in the British magazines Shipping World & Shipbuilder and The Shipping World, dated 3 and 10 September 1964 respectively, refer to the First Maritime Conference.

57d

Prime Minister George Papandreou delivering his speech.

57c

Photograph from the First Maritime Conference in August 1964. From left, shipowners Michael Xylas, John C. Carras, Stratis Andreadis, Alkimos Gratsos, Basil Rosolymos and Costas M. Lemos.

57b

King Constantine escorted by the President of the Union of Greek Shipowners Professor Stratis Andreadis (left) and the Minister of Merchant Marine Stavros Biris (right).

57a

Deputy Minister of Coordination Andreas Papandreou at the same event.

57. THE FIRST MARITIME CONFERENCE

The First Maritime Conference, attended by King Constantine and representatives of all political parties had its works started on 27 August 1964, at a time that the Greek registry was losing power following a series of incidents of anarchy on board Greek-flagged vessels. Distinguished speakers of both the Union of Greek Shipowners and the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee made important presentations on all issues concerning the shipping industry. Despite this, the Greek registry failed to attract more ships as the majority of new acquisitions and especially newbuildings were placed under foreign flags.

59b

The Liberian-flagged bulk carrier KAITY, built in 1965 in Japan for a company under the management of Vrontados Shipping Co., Ltd.

59. THE STATE IN CRISIS WHILE SHIPPING FLOURISHES

The troubled political scene reached its peak in July 1965, when Prime Minister George Papandreou resigned. This development caused more ships to leave or avoid joining the Greek registry. By that time, the market was booming again as well as Greek investments in newbuildings.

59a

Prime Minister Stefanos Stephanopoulos with Minister Isidoros Mavridoglou at a meeting at the Ministry of Merchant Marine in December 1965.

56c

The 1965-built OCEANIC was the first newbuilding of Home Lines. Pictured, left, its owner Nicolaos Vernicos Eugenides.

56b

The ocean liner AUSTRALIS, acquired in 1964 by Anthony Chandris was employed on the Greece-Australia line.

56. INVESTING IN PASSENGER LINERS

Several distinguished Greek shipowners made significant investments in the ocean liner sector.

55b

Αn article published in the British magazine The Shipping World dated 1th February 1961 on Greek shipping.

55. KEEPING FAITH ON NEWBUILDINGS

In the 1960s, Greek shipowners went on investing in newbuildings, leading to the continuous growth of the Greek-owned merchant fleet in terms of size and quality.

55c

George S. Livanos and his sister Eugenia S. Niarchos, sponsor of the tanker STAVROS G. LIVANOS, launched on 2 December 1963. The ship was named after the founder of the S. G. Livanos group, who had passed away a few months earlier.

55d

The world’s biggest tanker, the US-flagged 108,590 dwt MANHATTAN, built in the US, was delivered in January 1962 to the Stavros Niarchos Group.

55a

Articles in British magazines referring to newly-built Greek-owned ships in the 1960s.

52. THE REGISTRY IS STRENGTHENED DESPITE THE CRISIS

In the early 1960s, world shipping continued facing the consequences of the recession, which had led many ships into lay-up. Despite this, the strengthing of the Greek registry continued.

52b

An article published in the British magazine Shipbuilding and Shipping Record, dated 6 December 1962, on the shipping crisis.

52a

Greek merchant ships laid-up at Argostoli, Cephalonia in the early 1960s.

51. THE FIRST SHIP BUILT AT HELLENIC SHIPYARDS S.A.

In July 1961, the tanker WORLD HOPE, the first ship built at Hellenic Shipyards S.A., was delivered to its owners.

51a

The founder of Hellenic Shipyards S.A. Stavros Niarchos with Amalia C. Karamanlis, sponsor of the tanker WORLD HOPE during its launching ceremony on 22 December 1960. Αn article published in the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 4 January 1961, referring to the event.

51c

An advertisement of Hellenic Shipyards S.A. in the magazine Motor Ship, depicting the WORLD HOPE during trials.

51b

The keel-laying ceremony of the WORLD HOPE, on 27 May 1960 attended by Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis.

50e

The Aristotle Onassis family, during the launching ceremony of the Saudi-Arabian flagged tanker AL-MALIK SAUD AL-AWAL in 1954 in Hamburg.

50j

The Kulukundis brothers, Minas Rethymnis and Basil Mavroleon.

50h

The Fafalios family during the launching ceremony of the cargo ship STAMOS in Sunderland in November 1955.

50c

Members of the Peter J. Goulandris family.

50a

Members of the C. Los family.

50b

Pictured, from left, shipowners Pericles G. Callimanopulos, Nicolas G. Livanos, George A. Embiricos, Antoniοs G. Pappadakis, Spyros A. Lemos, Alecos, Giannis and Leonidas N. Goulandris, Michael Xylas, John C. Carras, John Cosmas, John Theodoracopulos, Nicolaos and Panaghis Lykiardopulo.

1. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE FIRSTGREEK STEAMSHIP COMPANY

Until mid-19th century, itineraries between Greek mainland and the islands were performed by foreign companies. The need for an improved coastal network led to the establishment of the Hellenic Steam Navigation Co., following an initiative by the Greek Government. The company operated for 35 years, until its bankruptcy in 1892.

1d

Visit of the Royal Family at the Neorion facility in Syros, on 24 April 1889.

1c

The Government Gazette, dated 3 August 1857, referring to the establishment of the Hellenic Steam Navigation Co.

1b

The 1860-built steamship OMONIA, one of the first ships of the company.

1a

A Bill of Lading of Hellenic Steam Navigation Co., incorporating the portrait of Ilias Kechagias, who envisioned the creation of the company and acted as its governor until his passing in 1885.

1e

The port of Syros in the early 1860s.

4. THE FIRST GREEK CARGO STEAMSHIPS

The first Greek general cargo steamships belonged to entrepreneurs originating from the island of Ithaca, who had demonstrated commercial activities in Danube regions.

3e

Βrothers, from left, Nicolaos J. Pateras, Constantinos J. Hadjipateras and Diamantis J. Pateras, master mariners from the island of Oinousses.

3d

Μaster mariner Christoforos Cockinos, from Vrontados of Chios, with his family.

3. GREEK MASTER MARINERS THAT BECAME SHIPOWNERS

The transition of Greek shipping from sail to steam was achieved through efforts by a large number of master mariners. Many of them became later shipowners with the support of distinguished members of Greeks of the Diaspora.

2. THE EVOLUTION OF PIRAEUS AS A MARITIME CENTER

The establishment of Athens as the capital of Greece, signaled the gradual evolution of its main port, Piraeus, into a maritime center.

2a

The port of Piraeus in the mid-1870s.

9. SHIPPING MARKET FLUCTUATIONS

At the end of the 19th century, world shipping started developing signs of fatigue, as a result of the oversupply of new tonnage. Under these circumstances Greek shipping found itself in an extremely difficult position. An unexpected development however, the Second Boer War in South Africa, which broke out in 1899, had the situation dramatically changed, since a large part of the British merchant fleet was requisitioned for the transportation of troops and cargoes, creating a new status in tonnage supply and demand.

9a

Α press cutting from the British magazine The Shipping World on the shipping market, dated 29 March 1899.

7. THE DEVELOPMENT OF STEAMSHIP ACTIVITY IN HERMOUPOLIS

Hermoupolis, having attracted immigrants from Asia Minor, Chios, Psara, Kassos, Crete and Peloponnese, became the place that Greek steamship activity first flourished. Among those that invested in steamships, were merchants and industrialists.

9b

Α sketch published in The Shipping World, dated 18 October 1899, depicting requisitioned British steamships sailing to South Africa following the outbreak of the Second Boer War.

7b

The 1890-built steamship ACME, owned by Antonios E. Mavrogordatos.

6. GREEK PILOTS IN THE SUEZ CANAL

Since its opening in 1869 the Suez Canal has played a very important role in world seaborne trade. From the late 1880s the presence of Greek pilots, mainly originating from the island of Kassos, decisively contributed in offering quality pilotage services.

6a

Julius Vardavas from Kassos, one of the first pilots employed by the Suez Canal authority.

5a

Press cuttings from the British magazine The Illustrated London News, dated 19 August 1893, referring to the opening of the Corinth Canal by Queen Olga of Greece on 25 July 1893.

8d

The Greek-flagged VAGLIANOS, built in 1895, for the London based Panaghis Vaglianos interests, national benefactor and one of the protagonists in establishing modern Greek shipping.

8c

The Greek-flagged DEMETRIO S. SCHILIZZI, built in 1893, for Foscolo, Mango & Co.

8b

The Russian-flagged SOPHIA COUPPA, built in 1890, for Marseille-based Orestis Couppas interests.

8a

The Greek-flagged POSEIDON, built in 1895, for Braila-based Othon A. Stathatos interests.

8. STEAMSHIPS AND GREEKS OF THE DIASPORA

Greeks of the Diaspora decisively contributed towards the growth of Greek-owned steamship activity by having ships built to their order at UK shipyards.

7c

Τhe 1899-built steamship ELPIDOPHOROS belonged to Stamatios D. Vafiadakis (left) and Emmanuel Ladopoulos.

7d

The 1892-built steamship SPARTI owned by Pantoleon A. Foustanos.

7a

The port of Hermoupolis in the last decades of the 19th century.

5. OPENING OF THE CORINTH CANAL

The opening of the Corinth Canal was decided in 1869 by the Th. Zaimis government. The excavation works started in 1882 and the project was completed in 1893, setting new standards in navigation.

4a

The island of Ithaca in the 1860s.

4b

Ioannis Theofilatos from Ithaca, co-owner of the first Greek cargo steamship ITHACA, which was built in 1873.

4c

The 1877-built Greek steamship PARTHENON, co-owned by Ioannis Theofilatos.

29g

Facing the enemy. Greek seafarer Byron Michailides on board the ATHINA LIVANOS in 1942. In the post-war years he went on to become a fine captain and port captain serving major Greek shipping the Greek merchant steamship, during WWII.

31b

The 1940-built British-flagged steamship DUKE OF ATHENS of Stavros Livanos, pictured in war outfit, is depicted on 19 November 1942. The ship survived the War.

31a

A group of Greek ships chartered to the Swiss government during WWII.

30a

An article published in The War Illustrated, dated 30 May 1941, on the German invasion of Greece.

30f

The passenger ship SOPHIA was hit and sunk following a German air raid in April 1941.

30g

The Swedish steamship FORMOSA was chartered by the Greek War Relief Association for transporting humanitarian aid to Greece.

30d

A press cutting from the newspaper Proinos Typos, dated 21 February 1943, referring to the provision of humanitarian aid to Greece under the International Red Cross with the responsibility of the Swedish government, which provided ships for transporting basic needs.

30c

Α poster of the Greek War Relief Association that was established in the US during the War in order to facilitate food supplies to Greece.

32. SHIP LOSSES

The catastrophic WWII caused the devastation of three quarters of the Greek merchant fleet and, even worse, the loss of 2,500 seafarers. Despite the heavy loss, the Greek merchant marine managed to maintain its presence throughout the War, sailing under the Greek flag in all world oceans.

31i

A commemorative certificate signed by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, conveying the appreciation of the King of England to captain Nicolas Kouvalias, master of the Greek steamship ELPIS.

31j

Τhe popular Greek singer Sofia Vembo with members of the crew on board a Greek steamship in Alexandria during the War.

31f

Correspondence referring to the nomination of Greek shipping offices to act as managers of ships on behalf of the Greek government during the War.

31h

Captain C. Panorios of the NICOLAOS G. KULUKUNDIS, the first steamship to enter the port of Tripoli, Libya after it was cleared of enemy forces, reading a congratulatory telegram by the British admiral Sir Henry Harwood on 3 February 1943.

31g

The 1914-built Greek steamship EMMY owned by Andreas Vergottis, lost during the War on 25 May 1942. Its insurance compensation became the subject of litigation between the Greek government in exile in Cairo and the owner from Cephalonia, who won the case.

34g

The Athenians celebrating the liberation of their city.

34. THE PRICE OF WAR

The Greek merchant fleet offered invaluable services during wartime. However, by the end of the War, the Greek-flagged fleet had shrunk dramatically and the absence of state aid made reconstruction efforts even more difficult.

34d

An article in the Greek newspaper Naftika Nea, dated 11 February 1945, referring to the shipping problem of Greece after the War.

34b

A historic photograph from the ceremony of the raising of the Greek flag in the Acropolis after the liberation of Greece. In the centre, Prime Minister Georgios Papandreou talking with Lieutenant-General Ronald M. Scobie. Second from left, wearing a white suit, is Sotirios Matantos, later a principal of Kassos Steam Navigation.

34c

A press cutting of the Shipbuilding and Shipping Record, dated 4 April 1946, referring to the world merchant fleets in 1939 and 1945.

33. RECONSTRUCTION PLANS

Τhe task of the post-war reconstruction of the Greek fleet was difficult given that, the agreement signed by the Tsouderos administration did not provide for immediate compensation to shipowners in case of loss of ships. However, the US government had, even prior to the end of the War, worked out plans that concerned the sale of surplus tonnage to Greeks.

33a

An article from the British magazine Shipbuilding and Shipping Record, dated 19 October 1944, referring to a plan for the post-war sale of American ships to Greek shipowners. The plan was materialized two years later with the sale of the Liberty-type ships.

29d

Αn article published in The Illustrated London News, dated 16 November 1940, following the entrance of Greece in the War.

29f

A joint circular by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and the Union of Greek Shipowners with presidents Nicolaos G. Livanos (left) and Costas Michalos (right), respectively, urging shipowners to offer financial assistance to the state after the declaration of War.

29e

Greek seafarers on the bridge of a steamship during the War.

29. GREECE AT WAR

The Italian attack against Greece on 28 October 1940 marked the entry of Greece into WWII. Greek cargo ships played a crucial role transporting large quantities of supplies as well as troops bravely fighting on the Albanian front. At the same time, they continued serving the country’s supply requirements.

30e

The passenger ship LESBOS was hit and sunk following a German air raid in April 1941.

29a

A cartoon published in the British Press, when Greece was fighting against the Axis powers.

29c

Ioannis Metaxas and Greek soldiers in jubilation following the historic “OHI” (NO) to the Italians.

29b

The front page of the Greek daily KATHIMERINI, dated 29 October 1940, referring to Greece’s entry into World War II.

35a

Mass construction of Liberty ships during the War.

35c

A letter, dated 24 November 1941, by the then US senator and later President of the US Harry S. Truman praising the bravery of the Greeks.

35b

US President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Τhe plan for the construction of the Liberty ships was adopted and implemented during his presidency.

35d

Prime Minister Konstantinos Tsaldaris and vice president Sofoklis Venizelos, played an important role in the acquisition of the 98 Liberty ships.

35e

Photos from the banquet in honour of the Greek Minister of Merchant Marine Nicholaos Avraam, hosted by the Greek Shipowners’ New York Committee on 10 January 1947. Above, pictured from left, shipowners George Chr. Lemos and Manuel Kulukundis, Minister Nicolaos Avraam, the publisher of the Greek magazine Naftika Chronika Dimitrios Kottakis and shipowner John Theodoracopulos.

35g

A press cutting from the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 27 November 1946, referring to the sale of Liberty ships.

35f

Liberty ships laid-up in the US after the end of the War.

35i

The GEORGIOS F. ANDREADIS was the first of the 98 Liberty ships acquired in 1946-1947 and placed under Greek flag.

35. THE LEGENDARY LIBERTY SHIPS

The Liberty-type ships, which were built in US shipyards during WWII, were the cornerstone for the post-war reconstruction of the Greek-owned merchant fleet.

35j

Seafarers on board Greek-flagged Liberty ships. In the middle, a letter by the Greek Captains’ Association expressing its gratitude to the Minister of Merchant Marine Nicholaos Avraam for the acquisition of the 98 Liberty ships.

35l

Liberty ships acquired by Greek shipowners in early post-war years and placed under foreign flags. Pictured, from top to bottom, are the US-flagged TAINARON, the British-flagged MILL HILL, the Honduran-flagged ARISTOCRATIS and the Panamanian-flagged MYRTO.

36a

Articles from Life magazine, dated 15 March 1948, on the Greek Civil War.

36. THE CIVIL WAR

Τhe Civil War that broke out in Greece immediately after the end of WWII deepened the magnitude of devastation and prevented any serious reconstruction effort, including the shipping industry. The economic recovery of the country was greatly facilitated through the implementation of the Marshall plan adopted by the US government.

36b

Discharging of the first Marshall Plan cargo in Piraeus on 28 May 1948, transported with the US-flagged Liberty ship J. D. ROSS. It is worth mentioning that the ship was later acquired in 1949 by a company under the management of the C.M. Lemos group and renamed IRENESTAR.

37. RECONSTRUCTION OF COASTAL SERVICE

The destruction of Greece’s passenger coastal fleet was one of the most serious consequences of World War II. After the war, the Greek state took delivery of some elderly vessels as part of war reparations, which were placed in various coastal routes. However, the post-war development of Greek shipping was undertaken by a few entrepreneurs, who attempted to contribute to the reconstruction of the country.

37a

Left, the 1910-built passenger ANGELICA, was acquired in 1949 by the Aegean Steam Navigation of Typaldos Brothers. Right, the 1943-built DESPINA, an ex-Navy auxilliary ship, was acquired in 1950 and converted to a passenger ship by Foustanos Brothers.

38. GREEK SHIPOWNERS IN THE USA

Several Greek shipowners, who had offices established in New York after the War, anticipating the rapid evolution of oil as prime source of energy, managed, after securing financing from the US market, to place orders for the construction of large tankers in US shipyards. The construction of more than 50 Greek-owned tankers in US shipyards gave a boost to the US economy. Beyond the above, Greek shipowners were instrumental in the establishment and growth of the Liberian registry.

38a

The steam tanker OLYMPIC GAMES, built in 1948 for Aristotle Onassis interests under the Honduran flag, was the first ship built for Greeks in post-WWII years.

38b

Stavros Livanos, at the launching of the Honduran-flagged ATLANTIC PRINCE first newly-built tanker of his group, on 8 October 1948.

38c

The tanker WORLD PEACE, built in the USA in 1949 for a company under the management of the Stavros Niarchos group (in the picture). Above, a 1979-commemorative stamp of the Republic of Liberia depicting the tanker WORLD PEACE, the first ship to be registered in Liberia.

38d

A view of New York, the epicentre of Greek maritime activity in the early post-WWII years.

39d

From the launching of the British-flagged motor tanker LONDON PRIDE on 31 May 1950. She was built by Furness Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., UK for London and Overseas Freighters Ltd. established by the Kulukundis group and an advertisement of the shipbuilding facility.

39c

John M. Carras from Kardamyla, Chios. In 1951 his group placed the first large order for the construction of four sister tankers in Japan, pictured here in a painting commissioned by shipbuilders Hitachi, which were delivered in 1952 and 1953. Α press cutting from Shipbuilding and Shipping Record, dated 8 June 1961, referring to the above order.

39b

From the launching of the NORTH PRINCE on 27 September 1952. Built by Howaldtswerke A.G., Hamburg, it was the first Greek-owned ship built in West Germany. Pictured, in the middle of the photo, is its owner Antonis Pappadakis.

39. DYNAMIC RETURN TO SHIPYARDS

Since the early 1950s, the Greek shipowners started implementing a large-scale newbuilding program by placing massive orders to world shipyards, especially those in the UK, West Germany and Japan. These initiatives decisively contributed to the financial growth of West Germany and Japan.

39a

The whaling factory OLYMPIC CHALLENGER, owned by Aristotle Onassis (in the picture), originally built as a T2-type tanker, after its conversion in 1949 at Kiel, West Germany. Right, the OLYMPIC CRUISER, one of 16 corvettes converted into whalers at Kiel, West Germany for his group before placing an order for the construction of 20 tankers.

65. THE FIRST POSIDONIA EXHIBITION

The first International Maritime Exhibition "Posidonia" was held in June 1969 at the Zappeion Hall, Athens with the participation of shipyards and shipping companies from 16 different countries. Τhe exhibition was repeated in 1970 and subsequently every two years.

65b

The entrance of the Posidonia exhibition and below, Minister of Merchant Marine John Cholevas delivering his address at the 1970-opening ceremony.

65a

Pictures from the 1969-Posidonia and an advertisement of the exhibition.

64. THE 2,000TH SHIP OF THE GREEK REGISTRY

On 3 May 1969, a ceremony was held at the reception hall of the Ministry of Merchant Marine, in order to present awards to 37 shipowners who had the Greek flag raised on their ships at the time of the registration of the 2,000th ship in the Greek registry.

64a

A group of shipowners awaiting to receive their awards.

63. THE GREEKS DOMINATE THE MARKETS

The rise in shipping markets prompted Greek shipowners to invest heavily in second-hand acquisitions in order to take advantage of the favourable situation.

63a

Several 1967-articles of the newspaper Lloyd’s List & Shipping Gazette, referring to the sale and purchase activity of Greek shipowners.

63a

Several 1967-articles of the newspaper Lloyd’s List & Shipping Gazette, referring to the sale and purchase activity of Greek shipowners.

62h

The 1969-built OLYMPIC ARMOUR, the first VLCC placed under the Greek flag. The Hellenic Post issued a commemorative stamp to mark the ship’s registration.

62f

An article published in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, in June 1969, referring to the pioneering mini bulk carrier MINI LUCK, built in Japan for the Ceres Group. The group, headed by shipowner George P. Livanos, took delivery of over 50 ships of this type from 1969 to 1972.

62g

George P. Livanos.

62e

The 1968-built bulk carrier SPYROS A. LEMOS was the first Greek ship built under the supervision of Det Norske Veritas.

62d

An article published in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, on April 1970, referring to the bulk carrier NORTHWIND, built to the order of the Coumantaros group.

62c

An article published in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, on February 1967, referring to the bulk carrier ARCHIMEDES, built to the order of the Michael Xylas group.

62b

The Liberian-flagged 1968-built tanker NICHOLAS J. GOULANDRIS was the largest Greek-owned vessel at the time of her delivery to its owners, a company under the management of the N. J. Goulandris group.

62a

The Liberian-flagged 1967-built ore/oil carrier ATHENIC was built to the order of the C. M. Lemos group.

62. SHIPBUILDING BOOM

The rapid rise of the shipping markets encouraged an even increasing number of Greek shipowners to place newbuilding orders in world shipyards. New and innovative designs, both in terms of size and type of ships, were introduced by shipbuilders, whereas tankers were constantly growing in size, leading to the construction of ships in excess of 200,000 dwt.

61e

Renowned shipowners at the time were the main protagonists in placing orders for the construction of Freedom-type ships. Among them were Antonios Angelicoussis, pictured here with his wife Maria and daughter Anna, Michael Peraticos and below, Michael Xylas, his nephew Antonios Xylas and Aristides Alafouzos pictured with his wife Lena.

61d

An article published by the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, dated January 1969, on the KOSTANTIS YEMELOS, the first SD-14 cargo ship built by Hellenic Shipyards S.A. in 1969. She was initially launched as the HELLENIC RENAISSANCE.

61c

The NICOLA, the first SD-14 type cargo ship, built in 1968 for a company under the management of Basil Mavroleon’s group. Αlso, an article published in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder, in April 1968, referring to the ship.

61b

John C. Carras and his son Costas Carras at the delivery of the CHIAN CAPTAIN. Their group had 12 ships of this type built to their order.

61a

The launching of the CHIAN CAPTAIN, the first Freedom-type ship, built in 1967 in Japan. Αn article published in the US shipping magazine Marine Engineering/Log, dated October 1967, referring to the same ship.

61. LIBERTY SHIPS SUCCESSORS

Following an almost quarter of a century period of useful service, the Liberty type ships had to be replaced with ships of advanced design, mainly the Japanese Freedoms and the British SD-14s. Greek shipowners were the main protagonists in this development.

60f

The MAΚEDONIA, a pioneering OBO, launched on 10 April 1967, was delivered to the John Theodoracopoulos group and sailed on her maiden voyage in August of the same year.

60e

King Constantine with members of the military regime in April 1967.

60d

An article published in the Greek daily I Kathimerini, dated 21 April 1967, referring to the entrance of tanks in the streets of Athens.

60c

An article of the Greek daily Eleftheria, dated 15 April 1967, referring to the political situation.

60b

The front page of the newspaper Evening Standard, dated 5 June 1967, referring to the Six-Day War between Israel and the Arab states of Egypt, Syria and Jordan.

60a

The short-lived 1967 goverment under Panagiotis Kanellopoulos.

60. TIMES OF CRISIS

The imposition of a military dictatorship on April 21, 1967 was the culmination of a period of great political uncertainty and unrest, while two months later, the Six-Day War that led to the closure of the Suez Canal had dramatic effects for world shipping.

83f

An article published in the magazine Fairplay in May 1988 referring to the Greek merchant fleet.

83e

Minister of Merchant Marine Aristotelis Pavlidis with the President and members of the Board of Directors of the Union Greek Shipowners at a meeting on 2 October 1990.

83d

The historic alliance of left and right-wing politicians to form a coalition government in 1989. Pictured from left; Leonidas Kyrkos, Charilaos Florakis, Constantine Mitsotakis and Costis Stephanopoulos.

83a

The members of the board of the Union of Greek Shipowners with their representatives in December 1987.

83b

The cover and an article in the April 1988 issue of the 100A1 Lloyd’s Register, indicative of the strength of the Greek fleet.

83. SHIPPING RECOVERS, THE POLITICAL SCENE CHANGES

While the shipping markets were well under recovery, Greek shipowners continued investing heavily on second-hand tonnage. The Greek registry however, remained non-competitive at the same time that open registries had overcome almost all national registries. At the end of the decade, the changes in the political scene brought in a new status in facing the merchant shipping issues. Unfortunately, the Greek registry had within a decade lost almost half of its strength; its biggest loss during peacetime.

83c

Τhe presence of Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou at the INTERTANKO meeting was welcomed by the shipping community but was not able to attract vessels back to the Greek registry.

82c

The Liberian-flagged HORIZON built in 1990 to the order of Celebrity Cruises of the Chandris Group.

82a

The launching of the 1986-built Panamanian cruise ship HOMERIC in the fleet of Home Lines.

82. LUXURY CRUISE SHIPS

The constructive path of Greeks in the international cruise sector was highlighted shortly before the fall of the century following the delivery of several cruise ships built at premium European shipyards. Despite this, the development of this sector by Greeks did not enjoy similar distinction over the next decades.

82b

The 1989-built Greek cruise ship CROWN ODYSSEY in the fleet of Royal Cruise Line.

80e

A 1986-article published in Naftiliaki, referring to the quality status of Greek shipping at the time.

81a

Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou laying the foundation stone of the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center on 8 October 1987.

81. A SPLENDID EXAMPLE OF BENEVOLENCE

The Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center was a donation by the Alexander S. Onassis Foundation. Its construction started in 1987 and was completed in 1992.

80d

Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou in a warm greeting with entrepreneur John S. Latsis during a ceremony to celebrate the raising of the Greek flag on board the ultra large crude oil carrier HELLAS FOS in 1986.

80c

Press cutting of the British magazine Fairplay, dated May 29, 1986, referring to the serious problems that the Greek shipping industry was facing at the time.

80. HEADING TOWARDS RECOVERY

The dramatic decline of the number of Greek-flagged ships and the parallel increase in Greek-owned foreign-flagged vessels finally spurred the government into action. At the end of the summer of 1986, the freight market began to show signs of recovery. Taking advantage of the improved sentiment, the new minister of Merchant Marine Stathis Alexandris launched a campaign, during which he visited shipping offices in person, with an aim to create favourable conditions for the registration of ships under the Greek flag.

80b

The President of the Hellenic Republic Christos Sartzetakis arriving at a reception hosted by the UGS during Posidonia 1986. Next to the president, from left, Costas M. Lemos, Minister of Merchant Marine Stathis Alexandris, Stavros Daifas, George Foustanos, and UGS President Stathis Gourdomichalis.

80a

Celebrating 50 years from the establishment of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping in 1986. Finance Minister Costas Simitis during his speech. Seated from left; George Foustanos, George Lanaras, Costas Fafalios, Costas Comninos, Vassilis Koutsis, Spyros Alexandratos and Nikos Vernicos.

78. ESTABLISHMENT OF HELMEPA

On 4 June 1982, a joint commitment by the Union of Greek Shipowners and the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation led to the realisation of a unique project; the establishment of the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association, known as HELMEPA. Based on an idea by shipowner George P. Livanos, HELMEPA was founded well before any other such initiatives by international organisations aiming at combating maritime pollution.

78a

Shipowner George P. Livanos signing the “Save the Seas” declaration on 4 June 1982.

78b

The well-known seagull of HELMEPA, has been prompting the public to protect the sea environment over the past forty years.

79. SHIPPING’S FOREIGN RELATIONS

Beyond cooperating with their European counterparts following Greece’s entry to the EEC, Greek shipowners continued enhancing their long-standing relations with representatives of the shipping industries of China and the Soviet Union.

79a

A delegation of members of the Union of Greek Shipowners visiting Leningrad, Soviet Union, in 1985.

79b

V. Karchenko, representative of the Union of Soviet Shipowners, and John B. Goulandris, vice-president of the Union Greek Shipowners, signing a memorandum of cooperation in 1987.

79c

The cover of a brochure published in 1982 by the Union of Greek Shipowners on the occasion of Posidonia exhibition.

79d

A Chinese delegation visiting the offices of the UGS the President Aristomenis Karageorgis. Pictured, from left, are shipowners Stathis Gourdomichalis and George Lanaras.

77c

The President of the Union of Greek Shipowners Αristomenis Karageorgis speaking at the opening of Posidonia exhibition in 1982. Pictured, on his right, is Minister of Merchant Marine Stathis Yiotas and the latter’s successor George Katsifaras.

77b

The cover and the main article of the September 1982 issue of Naftiliaki, highlighting the repercussions of the crisis.

77. CHANGE AND CRISIS

By 1981, Greece was a full member of the European Community. Its membership signaled the addition of 3,942 ships to the European merchant fleet, doubling its size. At the time, market levels were still satisfactory and no one could predict the impending storm. A crisis that broke out shortly afterwards within the tanker market was a bad omen for the industry. Many owners began to realise that it would not take long for the dry cargo sector to meet the same fate. Ιn Greece, the new government under Andreas Papandreou was sworn in having the word “Change” as its motto.

77d

Photo from the reception hosted by the UGS on the occasion of Posidonia 1982. In the right photo, Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou with UGS President Aristomenis Karageorgis and the President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping Nicos Nomicos. Left, UGS President Aristomenis Karageorgis escorting the President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Karamanlis.

77g

Minister of Merchant Marine George Katsifaras and his associates meet with UGS Board members in early 1984. Pictured from left, Panaghiotis Tsakos, John Goumas, Aristomenis Karageorgis, George Lanaras, Minister George Katsifaras, Costas Fafalios, Merchant Marine Minister’s advisor C. Montesantos, Costas M. Lemos, Nicos Epiphaniades, George Dracopoulos, Commander of the Hellenic Coast Guard Admiral Constantinos Prokopis, Union of Greek Shipowners director general Emmanuel Trantas, and George M. Foustanos.

77h

An article in the newspaper Ι Kathimerini, dated 1 June 1983, referring to the measures taken by the Government for the competitiveness of the Greek-flagged ships and the phenomenon of the continuous decrease in the number of Greek seafarers.

77f

A January 1983-article in Naftiliaki on the measures introduced by the government in support of the ailing Greek registry.

77m

Minister of Merchant Marine Georgios Katsifaras (seventh from the right) in a commemorative photograph during the delivery of the newly-built bulk carrier ALPHA JUPITER of the Antonis Angelikoussis group in 1985 in Japan.

77k

A 1981-UGS press conference. Pictured from left, George Lanaras, Stathis Gourdomichalis, Aristomenis Karageorgis, Stavros Daifas and Nicos Epiphaniades.

77e

Andreas Papandreou.

77a

Greek state officials outside the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens after New Year’s Mass in 1981. At the front, the President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Karamanlis; behind him (left to right), Prime Minister George Rallis, opposition leader Andreas Papandreou, and Parliament speaker Demetrios Papaspyrou.

77l

On the left, an article of the newspaper To Vima, dated 19 August 1984, referring to the negative consequences of the crisis. Right, a press cutting of the magazine Tachidromos, dated 23 August 1984, referring to statement by the Minister of Merchant Marine George Katsifaras.

77i

Union Greek Shipowners officials visiting the prime minister on 11 November 1981. From left, Basil Sarantitis, shipping advisor to the prime minister; shipowners Nicos Epiphaniades and Stathis Gourdomichalis; Minister of Co-ordination Apostolos Lazaris; shipowner Stavros Daifas; Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou; UGS president Aristomenis Karageorgis; UGS Honorary President Anthony Chandris, and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Merchant Marine Theodoros Kokkinos.

76b

Constantine Mitsotakis, Minister for Coordination, delivering his speech during the Shipping Day Conference organised by the Union of Greek Shipowners on 8 December 1979 in order to create public awareness on the role of the shipping industry. Pictured to his left is shipowner Stathis Gourdomichalis and to his right the president of the Union of Greek Shipowners Anthony Chandris and the Minister of Merchant Marine Manolis Kefalogiannis. Above right, Anthony Chandris welcoming the President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Karamanlis.

76a

The Greek-flagged crude oil carrier CAPTAIN JOHN G. P. LIVANOS was built in Japan in 1977 for Ceres Hellenic Shipping Enterprises Ltd.

76. GREEK SHIPPING AT THE TOP

In late 1979, the Greek-flagged fleet consisted of 3,902 vessels of 38,57 million gross tons, out of a total of 4,812 Greek-owned ships of 52,95 million gross tons. When, in 1956, Constantine Karamanlis began his efforts to boost the Greek registry, tonnage under the Greek flag accounted for 14.94 per cent of Greek shipping. In late 1979, the Greek flag comprised 72.46 per cent of the Greek-owned fleet.

73. PUBLIC BENEFIT WORK

Anticipating the country’s needs, the shipping community contributed generously through various donations and public benefit works.

73d

Michael and Stamatia Xylas founded the Homerion Cultural Center in their homeland, Chios. Its construction was completed in 1980.

73c

During the ceremony for the building of an annexe at Evangelismos Hospital in 1975, following a donation by John D. Pateras. From left, John D. Pateras, Stephanos D. Pateras, the President of the Hellenic Republic Constantine Tsatsos and Pantelis D. Pateras.

74. SHIPOWNERS UNDER A NEW LEADERSHIP

As the political scene in Greece was drastically changing, Anthony Chandris took over the leadership of the Union of Greek Shipowners in January 1975.

74c

UGS president Anthony Chandris, Nicos Nomicos president of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and Hong Kong-based shipowner Y. K. Pao during the Posidonia 80 Forum.

74b

From the opening of Posidonia 78. Pictured from left, Nicos L. Nomicos, president of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the minister of Merchant Marine Emmanuel Kefalogiannis and the president of the Union of Greek Shipowners Anthony Chandris.

74a

The award ceremony for seafarers retiring after having served ocean-going shipping over many years was an initiative by the new president Union Greek Shipowners Anthony Chandris. Pictured Anthony Chandris who presentety seafarer Markos Houmis with a certificate and a cheque in 1980. Left, Panaghiotis Tsakos, UGS Board member; right, UGS Board members Costas Carras and Michael Peraticos. Below, Anthony Chandris in the board room of the Union of Greek Shipowners in the mid-1970s. In the pictured from left; George Papalios, Costas C. Carras, George Lanaras, George Vardinoyannis, Stavros Daifas, Menis Karageorgis, Anthony Chandris, Notis Panagiotopoulos, Stathis Gourdomichalis and Nicos Nomikos.

71d

Former British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan, was awarded the Onassis “Olympia” prize in 1980.

71c

Τhe Οnassis Awards ceremony at the Old Parliament, Athens.

71b

Aristotle and Christina Onassis at Alexander’s funeral.

71. TRAGEDY AND GREATNESS

The tragic end of Alexander Onassis in 1973, devastated Aristotle Onassis, who passed away prematurely at the age of 69 two years later. The loss of this charismatic entrepreneur whom Lloyd’s List described later as shipping personality of the 20th century, was destined to be linked with one of the outstanding social welfare acts in Greece. The establishment of the Alexander S. Onassis Foundation.

75a

Constantine Karamanlis signing the treaty for Greece’s entry into the European Community and an article published in the 11 June 1979 issue of Time magazine.

75. GREECE’S HISTORIC MOMENT

On 28 May 1979, Constantine Karamanlis signed the treaty of the accession of Greece to the EEC at the Zappeion in Athens.

72. POLITICAL CHANGE

The tragic events in Cyprus in the summer 1974, led to the collapse of the dictatorship. Οn 24 July, Constantine Karamanlis returned to Greece to undertake the difficult task of restoring democracy. In his effort to strengthen the country’s status, he knew that he could rely on its shipping industry.

72a

The Greek daily newspaper I Vradyni, which had ceased publication during the dictatorship, came out again, on 23 July 1974, to announce the arrival of Constantine Karamanlis to Greece after an 11-year-long absence.

72b

Constantine Karamanlis getting off the aircraft of the French President, Valery Giscard d’ Estaing, cheered by a large crowd.

72c

An article published in the Greek newspaper  I Kathimerini, dated 19 November 1976, on the financial abilities of Greek merchant marine.

73b

Shipowner and naval architect Eugene Panagopoulos with his wife and the Minister of National Defence Evangelos Averoff during the launching of the high-speed auxiliary ship of the Navy, built at the Hellenic Shipyards S.A. facility based on his own designs.

73a

A fleet of Greek Navy missile boats built at the Skaramangas facility in the late 1970s, following donations offered mainly by Greek shipowners.

69a

A large number of Greek-owned ships were laid-up in the Bay of Elefsis during the devastating crisis of the 1970s.

69. THE OIL CRISIS

The oil crisis of 1973 following the developments in the Middle East brought havoc in the shipping industry. The shortage of this invaluable commodity and the dramatic increase in its price affected the entire globe. World shipping, oil’s major transporter, continued operating for some months in a satisfactory, yet unstable freight market. During this period, Greek owners continued investing heavily, both in second-hand acquisitions and in newbuilding orders.

70. ΙNVESTING IN PASSENGER SHIPPING

Τhe Greek investments in passenger shipping referred to the fast rising sector of cruising as well as ships intended for employing in the Adriatic Sea routes.

70a

The cruise ship GOLDEN ODYSSEY was built in 1974 in Denmark for the Royal Cruise Line of Pericles Panagopulos.

70b

The passenger car-ferry MEDITERRANEAN SEA served the Greece-Italy itineraries. Its conversion in 1972 marked the entry of the Karageorgis group in passenger shipping.

71a

Alexander Onassis flying a helicopter.

69b

An article on the 1975 freight market published in Shipping World & Shipbuilder, dated January 1976.

68g

The creation of the luxurious tourist resort Porto Carras in Chalcis was a vision by shipowner John C. Carras who worked hard for the development of tourism in Greece in the early 1970s. His initiatives included establishing a shipyard in Chalcis for the conversion of two luxury cruise ships. One of them, the DANAE, pictured bottom right was the first western cruise liner to dock at a port in the People’s Republic of China after WWII.

68. SHIPYARDS IN GREECE

Τhe shipbuilding industry in Greece was the creation of distinguished shipowners. Stavros Niarchos established Hellenic Shipyards S.Α. Stratis Andreadis founded Elefsis Shipyards. Brothers Yannis, Alecos and Leonidas Goulandris established the Neorion facility in Syros while Chalkis shipyards were an entrepreneurial initiative by John C. Carras. The contribution of this industry to the national economy, especially in the 1970s was invaluable given also that the total workforce employed at the time were in excess of 10,000 people.

66c

The motor tanker MESSINIAKI PARADIS was built in 1971 in Japan for a company under the management of the Karageorgis group.

66e

The steam tanker ANDROS CHRYSSI was built in 1974 in Japan to the order of the P. J. Goulandris Sons group.

66b

The bulk carrier WORLD MARINE built in 1973 by Hellenic Shipyards Co. for the Niarchos group.

68f

The N. J. GOULANDRIS I, the first of two fast patrol boats built at Neorion and donated to the Greek Navy. In the photo from left, Leonidas N. Goulandris and the Minister of National Defence Evangelos Averoff.

68b

An article about Neorion shipyards in the British magazine Shipping World & Shipbuilder in July 1972.

66g

The steam tanker MICHAEL C. LEMOS was built in 1971 in W. Germany for the C.M. Lemos group.

67. PIRAEUS, AN INTERNATIONAL MARITIME HUB

Τhe gradual establishment of about 300 shipping offices since the late 1960s had Piraeus transformed into a fast-rising international maritime hub.

67a

The Akti Miaouli in Piraeus in the 1950s and, below, in the early 70s.

66h

The Greek-owned crude oil carrier ATLANTIC BARON of the George S. Livanos group was the first ship built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan in 1974. Sponsor of the ship that signaled the beginning for the establishment of the mighty South Korean shipbuilding industry, was the wife of the country’s President. The July 1972-article from The Motor Ship refers to the historic order by the George S. Livanos group, which determined the future of the aforementioned shipbuilders.

66a

The giant Greek tanker VASSILIKI COLOCOTRONIS during construction at the A. G. Weser facility in Bremen in 1974.

66d

The steam tanker LONDON PRIDE was built in 1971 in Sweden for London & Overseas Freighters.

66. THE FLEET GROWS IN SIZE

By demonstrating bold initiatives, the Greek shipowners continued investing in new ships and especially those of increased carrying capacity.

68j

The nationalisation of the Elefsis Shipyards S.A. in 1976 has been the cause of concern among the shipping community.

68m

The tanker WORLD PROMISE built in 1974 by Hellenic Shipyards Co. for the Stavros Niarchos group.

68l

The bulk carrier DAPHNE, was built in 1974 by Hellenic Shipyards S.A., for the Lykiardopulo group.

68i

Stratis G. Andreadis, was the founder of the Elefsis Shipyards S.A. in 1968.

68k

The cargo ship HELLENIC NAVIGATOR built in 1972 by Hellenic Shipyards Co., for Hellenic Lines Ltd.

68a

The Neorion facility in 1970 and, below, in 1974 following the investments made by their new owners.

68c

Giannis N. Goulandris

68e

An Enfield electric car, manufactured at the Neorion facility, in front of the floating dock.

68d

Alecos N. Goulandris

17. POLITICAL CHANGES

At the end of the Great War Greece’s international status had been significantly upgraded with merchant shipping’s decisive contribution. However, the surprising defeat of Eleftherios Venizelos in the November 1920 elections cast a dramatic change of the overall situation.

15. BALKAN WARS

On 20 September 1912, a few days before the outbreak of the First Balkan War, the Greek government requisitioned all merchant ships at the port of Piraeus. More ships were requisitioned in other ports of Greece, whilst Greek steamers in foreign ports were given orders to sail full speed to Greece. Merchant shipping’s contribution towards the victorious outcome of the Balkan Wars was more than decisive.

15h

A 1913-press cutting from the New York-edited Greek magazine Atlantis, referring to the Peace negotiations. Eleftherios Venizelos is seated first from the left.

15i

A postcard depicting the arrival of King Constantine in Faliro bay after the victorious Balkan Wars.

16n

The passenger liner VASILEFS CONSTANTINOS, built in 1914 for the National Steam Navigation Co., Ltd. of Greece, sailed under the control of French government during the War.

16o

The great Greek statesman Eleftherios K. Venizelos, whose initiatives often gained publicity in the international Press.

16s

Above, a title share of the Piraeus Maritime Bank established by shipping entrepreneurs in 1918. Below, title share and balance sheet of the Greek shipping enterprise The Oriental Shipping Company Limited, dated 1919.

16t

A press cutting of the magazine I ESPERIA, dated 26 January 1917, referring to the decision of the British government to charter the available Greek steamships.

16r

Master mariner and shipowner Antonios Palios founder of Hellenic Company of Maritime Enterprises in 1916 and a title share of the company.

16q

A document concerning the operation financial results of the steamship AGIOS GEORGIOS, owned by master mariner and shipowner George Nicolaou (in the picture).

16p

The 1907-built steamship ATHANASIOS, owned by Nicolaos D. Lykiardopulo. One of the ships chartered for the transportation of grain cargoes to Greece in the early War years.

16f

The 1905-built steamship TSIROPINAS was sunk by a German submarine on 1 January 1917.

16j

The port of Salonica at the time that Eleftherios Venizelos formed his government.

16k

A press cutting from the magazine I ESPERIA, dated 23 November 1917, referring to the reception held at London Town Hall on 16 November, attended by Eleftherios Venizelos.

16l

A press cutting from the magazine I ESPERIA, dated 9 March 1917, referring to the national dinner held at the Carlton Hotel in London in honour of the envoy of the Greek government A. Diomedes.

16m

The vice-president of Union of Greek Shipowners, Nicolaos Kyriakides, in Pittsburgh, USA, in 1918 at a meeting with local dignitaries during his voluntary trip aiming to raising awareness in the US community on the serious issues facing the Greek population in Asia Minor. Above, a commemorative certificate signed by prime minister Eleftherios Venizelos, in recognition of Nicolaos Kyriakides’ significant contribution to the fundraiser in support of Venizelos’ provisional wartime government at the Allied base in Thessaloniki, in 1916. Interestingly, Kyriakides contributed almost one thirtieth of the 25 million drachmas in total lent to the Venizelos administration by entrepreneurs, mainly shipowners.

16h

The 1908-built passenger liner THEMISTOCLES with Greek troops in the port of Salonica.

16i

A press cutting of the magazine I ESPERIA, dated 27 July 1917, referring to the fund raising by residents of the island of Syros, in support to Venizelos.

16g

A postcard of the port of Salonica during the War.

16e

George Sakalis, shipping advisor to Eleftherios Venizelos, was appointed as Union of Greek Shipowners general director upon its establishment in 1916. Furthermore, he was one of the key figures behind the formation of the Hellenic Coast Guard in 1919.

16c

Leonidas A. Embiricos was the first president of the Union of Greek Shipowners in 1916. He was elected three times as a Cyclades deputy with the Liberal party and served as minister of Food Supply and Self-Sufficiency in both Venizelos’ governments, initially in Salonica and, later, in Athens.

16b

Shipowner Alexandros G. Yannoulatos from the island of Cephalonia was vice president of Union of Greek Shipowners and a candidate deputy with Venizelos’ Liberal party.

16. WORLD WAR I

The Great War posed the first serious challenge to the evolution of Greek shipping. Despite entering the War only in 1917, Greece experienced the loss of a large number of ships, while the country was in neutrality. During that critical period, the maritime community decisively supported the Eleftherios Venizelos’s efforts and joined forces for the first time by establishing the Union of Greek Shipowners. Notwithstanding the huge losses, Greek shipowners accumulated unprecedented profits during the War which, among others, allowed them to undertake bold initiatives in creating onshore enterprises, such as banks and insurance companies contributing significantly to the national economy.

16d

A press cutting from the Greek daily Sfera referring to the establishment of the Union of Greek Shipowners, in February 1916.

15c

A watercolour by Manuel Kulukundis depicting several Greek cargo steamships detained in Constantinople during the Balkan Wars.

15f

A postcard depicting the port of Chios in 1913 and a photo of Oinousses island. After their liberation, seafarers from both the islands played a decisive role in the evolution of the Greek merchant marine.

15d

Admiral Pavlos Kountouriotis, a dedicated supporter of Greek merchant marine and, the Greek armoured cruiser GEORGIOS AVEROFF, which played a crucial role in the Balkan Wars.

40. BOOSTING THE GREEK REGISTRY

Since the end of the War and over the next eight years, the swearing in of 26 governments led to an unprecedented political instability that plagued the country. During this period, all maritime activities by Greeks that succeeded in establishing a robust fleet under foreign flags were performed abroad. Anticipating the multifaceted benefits that would result from having a strong national registry established, the Papagos administration adopted a special legislation for shipping, described in the article 13 which was incorporated in the developmental law 2987/53 in late 1953.

40b

The 1953-built cargo ship ATHINAI was built in Italy for the Greek government as part of Italy’s war reparations to Greece. It was subsequently acquired in auction by the Eugenides Group. In the picture, from left, Eugene Eugenides with Prime Minister Alexandros Papagos.

40c

An article published in the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 16 November 1960, referring on positive remarks made by the chairman of the British company Court Line Ltd., J. P. Philipps, concerning measures adopted by the Greek government in 1953.

40d

Τhe 1953-built tanker ASPASIA NOMIKOS, the first newbuilding placed under the Greek flag after WWII. In the picture, left, shipowner Markos P. Nomikos with Prime Minister Alexandros Papagos.

40f

Sotirios Matantos and his wife Nitsa, neé Pneumaticos, during the launching of the cargo ship AGHIA MARINA on 22 March 1954, the first newly-built ship to raise the Greek flag following the adoption of special measures for strengthening the Greek registry. Sotirios Matantos was the man, who put forward the idea of introducing a special legislation allowing ships owned by Greek-controlled foreign companies to be placed under the Greek flag.

42. CRUISING IN THE AEGEAN

The first attempts to establish a framework for the development of an organized cruise industry referring to island destinations were made in the mid-1950s.

42a

The 1935-built passenger ship SEMIRAMIS was acquired in 1953 by Epirotiki S. S. Navigation Co. of the Potamianos family. In 1955, she was the first ship employed by the National Tourism Organization of Greece for the promotion of organised cruises in the Aegean.

41b

The 1927-built ocean liner QUEEN FREDERICA served the transatlantic line for several years. She was acquired in 1948 by Eugene Eugenides and sailed as the Panamanian-flagged ATLANTIC. In 1954 she was placed under the Greek flag and renamed QUEEN FREDERICA. In the picture, from the Greek flag raising ceremony, the Royal Family of Greece, Prime Minister Alexandros Papagos and shipowner Nicolaos Vernicos-Eugenides.

41. GROWTH OF ΤΗΕ TRANSATLANTIC LINE

At the time that the post-war immigration was at its peak, Greek Line, headed by John L. Goulandris and the Eugenides group, employed their liners OLYMPIA and QUEEN FREDERICA in transatlantic itineraries. Both ships were instrumental in linking Greece with expatriates in the US and Canada.

41a

The passenger liner OLYMPIA, built in 1953 in the UK for Greek Line served the transatlantic line for many years. John L. Goulandris, in the picture, headed Greek Line since 1952.

40a

Prime Minister Alexandros Papagos (centre) and his associates (from left) Thanos Kapsalis, Pafsanias Lykourezos, Stephanos Stephanopoulos and Spyros Markezinis. The latter was instrumental in introducing the new shipping legislation.

43. KARAMANLIS’S PLEA TO SHIPOWNERS

In December 1956, Constantine Karamanlis met Greek shipowners in New York, inviting them to place their ships under the Greek flag. His efforts continued unabated after his return to Greece.

43a

Photos from the dinner on November 20, 1956 in honour of Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis held at St. Moritz Hotel, New York.

44c

Stratis Andreadis at the Athens airport welcoming Sir Charles Hambro, from whom he acquired control of the Ionian Bank in 1957. Pictured also are advertisements referring to banks of the Stratis Andreadis group that were instrumental in enhancing the Greek economy.

44. IMPORTANT INVESTMENTS BY SHIPOWNERS

While government efforts for strengthening the national registry continued unabated, several prominent shipowners undertook important initiatives referring to shore investments in Greece. This resulted to a substantial growth on the country’s economy and significantly facilitated efforts by Prime Minister Karamanlis to have Greece accepted as a member of the EEC.

44a

Stavros Niarchos signing the agreement for the establishment of a shipbuilding facility at Skaramanga, near Athens (Hellenic Shipyards Co., S.A.). Pictured from left to right, Minister of Industry and Commerce Panaghis Papaligouras, Minister for Coordination Demetrios Helmis, and Stavros Niarchos.

44b

Aristotle Onassis signing the agreement for the takeover of Greece’s national airline on 31 July 1956. Under his leadership, Olympic Airways became one of the leading airlines in the world.

43b

Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis with representatives of shipowners and seafarers at the Ministry of Merchant Marine in January 1957.

45b

Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee Chairman Stavros Niarchos and the Head of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Omer Becu, at the joint meeting between representatives of the Committee and the ITF held in Piraeus on 26 October 1959.

49. SHIPPING IN CRISIS

At the end of the 1950s, the serious recession that plagued the shipping markets since 1957, led to extensive lay ups of Greek-owned ships.

49b

Α press cutting from the British magazine Shipping World and Shipbuilder, dated 20 August 1959, referring to the shipping recession.

48. THE 1,000TH SHIP OF THE GREEK REGISTRY

On 22 October 1960, the registration of ΑΤLANTIC QUEEN, the 1,000th ship in the Greek registry after the War, was celebrated in Piraeus in the presence of King Paul and Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis.

48a

Stavros Livanos, owner of the 1957-built ATLANTIC QUEEN, embraces the Greek flag.

48b

Stavros Livanos, Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis and King Paul during the ceremony.

47. THE FIRST GREEK FERRY

In the summer of 1960, Greek Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis inaugurated in Piraeus the first newly-built Greek passenger ro-ro ferry, the EGNATIA, which served the Greece-Italy line.

47a

Constantine Karamanlis on the EGNATIA, accompanied by minister of Merchant Marine George Andrianopoulos and shipowner Panaghis Yannoulatos.

46a

From the inauguration of the PATRIS on 13 December 1959 by Prime Minister Constantine Karamanlis. Pictured to his right is shipowner Anthony Chandris. Below, the 1950-built Greek passenger liner PATRIS.

46. GREECE–AUSTRALIA LINE

Α most important event in meeting the needs related to the critical issue of immigration to Australia was the inauguration of the Greece-Australia Line by the Chandris group.

45a

Α Press Conference at the offices of Union of Greek Shipowners by Vice President Stratis Andreadis in 1958 on the issue of the International Transport Workers’ Federation boycott and a press cutting on the subject.

45. THE ITF BOYCOTT

In 1957, while the market was dropping fast, the International Transport Federation (ITF) started its fight against flags of convenience, under which a large number of vessels belonging to Greek interests were sailing at the time. The threat of being boycotted and the mobilisation of international labour organisations by the ITF, forced shipowners to negotiate and enter into agreements, including the imposition of a levy for the operation of any foreign-flagged ship under their management.

49a

A large number of Greek-owned ships laid up in Perama and Kynosoura, near Piraeus, in the late 1950s.

50m

Pictured from left, shipowners Evangelos Nomikos, Costas M. Lemos, John G. P. Livanos, George P. Livanos, George Vergottis and John M. Carras.

50l

Aristotle Onassis and West Germany’s Finance Minister, Professor Ludwig Erhard, the architect of Germany’s post-war economic miracle, at the launching of the tanker OLYMPIC CLOUD in 1953, sponsored by the wife of the German statesman.

50k

Stavros S. Niarchos and his wife Evgenia on the 1954-built tanker WORLD HARMONY.

50. GREEK SHIPOWNERS AND THEIR SHIPBUILDING ACTIVITY IN THE 1950s

Τhe Greek Shipping Miracle was the result of outstanding accomplishments by Greek shipowners in the first post-war decade and especially between 1953 and 1960. During the above period and despite many difficulties encountered at the time, Greek shipowners demonstrated an admirable entrepreneurial performance by taking delivery of one newly-built ship almost every five days from world shipyards. The work accomplished by the Greek shipping community at the time, determined to a large extent the growth of the shipbuilding industries of both West Germany and Japan, as well as the evolution of the Liberian Registry. This section presents the main protagonists of this era and highlights several of their accomplishments presented in international media.

50g

Members of the Lyras family.

50n

Members of the Diamantis Pateras family during the trial trip of a ship of their group.

50i

Members of the Chandris family at the launching of a ship of their group.

50f

Αlecos N. Goulandris, with Princess Takamatsu, sponsor of the tanker VIOLANDA in the Hitachi Zosen facility in Innoshima in July 1957.

50d

Stavros G. Livanos in 1956 during the launching of the cargo ship HADJITSAKOS at the A. G. Weser facility in Bremen.

53. THE CRUISE INDUSTRY FLOURISHES

In the early 1960s, several entrepreneurs of the passenger shipping sector, undertook initiatives that led to the international promotion of the Greek islands as well as other tourist destinations.

53a

Demetrius Chandris, founder of Chandris Cruises and an advertising leaflet of the company.

53b

Anastasios Potamianos and an advertising brochure with the itineraries of his enterprise, Epirotiki Lines.

56a

Greek Line’s chairman John L. Goulandris escorting King Constantine and Queen Anna Maria visiting in 1964 the newly acquired ocean liner QUEEN ANNA MARIA.

54a

Among the protagonists of the era was shipowner Costas Efthymiades, who envisioned the conversion of tankers to large passenger car-ferries. These ships had a dramatic effect on some of the coastal routes and especially the one between Piraeus and Crete. In the picture, Costas Efthymiades during the inauguration ceremony of the passenger car ferry PHAISTOS which was, prior to its conversion sailing as the Swedish-flagged tanker MARIA GORTHON.

54. PIONEERING CONVERSIONS IN COASTAL SERVICE

The Greek coastal service was characterised in the 1960s by a series of important changes including several pioneering conversions, that were effected in the Piraeus ship-repair zone.

53c

Spyros Typaldos and an advertising brochure of Typaldos Lines.

52c

A press cutting published in the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 12 April 1961, referring to foreign exchange earnings from the shipping industry.

52d

An article published in the British magazine The Shipping World, dated 11 January 1961, referring to transfers to the Greek registry.

58. THE CYPRUS REGISTRY

In 1964, with the Greek registry in crisis, the Cyprus registry emerged in world shipping. Over the years, it went on to become a notable force within the international maritime trade, supported to a great extent by Greeks and later on by a number of German shipowners.

58b

The President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios and Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou in 1964.

58a

Cypriot shipowners, brothers Loucas and Vassos Hadjiioannou.

58c

Greek shipowners who were instrumental in strengthening the Famagusta Registry in the mid-1960s and the early 1970s. From left, above, Alexander Tsavliris and Nicholaos Papalios. Below from left, Achilles Frangistas and Thanassis Martinos.

58d

The 1943-built cargo ship MARIANELLA was the first ship registered in Famagusta in 1964, year of establishment of the Cyprus registry.

16a

A press cutting of the newspaper Sfera, dated 27 July 1916, referring to the sale of Greek steamships.

15g

An article on the Greek islands published in the British magazine The Shipping World, dated June 1913.

18. FROM PEAK TO ROCK BOTTOM

Following an explosive rise in the immediate post-war years, ship prices started dropping fast since the mid-1921 resulting to losses representing up to 90% of their initial values. This led to massive lay up of ships and the financial destruction of many shipowners.

20. GLOBAL EVENTS AND SHIPPING

The world shipping markets were greatly affected following various unforeseen events that occurred during the course of the 1920s, such as the 1923 devastating earthquakes in Japan, the UK General Strike in 1926 and the Wall Street Crash of 1929.

35k

A table by the National Federation of American Shipping listing the cost of manning vessels under foreign flags. The Greek flag stands third after the American and the Canadian ones. (Naftika Chronika, 1 November 1947).

22d

Τhe 1916-built steamship ADAMANTIOS GEORGANDIS, acquired in 1932 by Georgandis Bros.

22b

The 1917-built LEONIDAS Z. CAMBANIS was acquired in 1932 by the heirs of L. Z. Cambanis.

22. SHIPPING IN THE DOLDRUMS

The 1929-Wall Street Crash brought havoc to the shipping industry leading to an unprecedended crisis characterized by massive lay-ups of tonnage, especially British. Despite the adverse circumstances and damages sustained, Greek shipowners managed to take advantage of the huge drop in ships values and had their fleet renewed with younger vessels acquired at extremely low prices.

22a

Laid-up ships in the port of Syros in the early 1930s.

22f

The 1919-built ONASSI SOCRATIS, acquired in 1933, marked the beginning of Aristotle Onassis’s outstanding career in shipping.

22e

The 1914-built steamship MAINDY GRANGE was acquired by Rethymnis & Kulukundis interests for a mere £2,150.

22c

The 1920-built steamship EVGENIA CHANDRIS, acquired in 1932 by John D. Chandris.

22g

Laid-up ships in the River Fal of the United Kingdom in the early 1930s.

24c

A 1934-letter by the British firm P. Wigham-Richardson referring to chartering issues including the refusal of charterers to employ Greek-flagged ships.

24b

Α press cutting from the 26th September 1933 issue of The Times referring to a letter by Manuel E. Kulukundis on the sale of British tonnage to Greeks.

23a

Pericles G. Callimanopulos and the first ship of Hellenic Lines, the 1916-built general cargo ship HELLAS as well as an advertisement of the company.

23. ESTABLISHMENT OF HELLENIC LINES

Hellenic Lines Ltd., established by Pericles Callimanopulos in late 1934 was the first Greek liner company. It operated successfully over the next 50 years.

24. GREEK SHIPOWNERS IN THE CITY

Τhe prevailing market situation due to the crisis, created the need of cooperation. In this context, an International Maritime Conference was set up in London in January 1935 with the participation of nations from around the globe. During the Conference, a plan for the rationalisation of the shipping industry was put forward, aiming at the improvement of the market by adjusting the availability of the world’s fleet according to global supply and demand. Furthermore, following an initiative by Manolis Kulukundis, a meeting between British and Greek shipowners was held a few days later. Kulukundis presented a plan for addressing market problems encountered in grain transportation from Argentina’s River Plate to Europe. The proposed plan, which became known as the “Minimum Rate Scheme”, was adopted by both parties as well as by owners from several other countries and was extended to include the transportation of other commodities. These developments also led to the establishment of the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee, which has since been representing the Greek offices operating in London.

24a

The port of London in the 1930s.

24d

Documents referring to negotiations that led to the introduction of the Minimum Rate Scheme. In the pictures, Pericles C. Dracoulis, from Ithaca, first chairman of the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee and, below, Angelo Lusi a prominent member of the Greek shipping community in London. Also pictured is Sir F. Vernon Thompson, who led the group of British shipowners.

25a

Deucalion Rediadis

25b

Documents of the Undersecretariat οf Merchant Marine concerning the first General Assembly of Hellenic Chamber of Shipping on 18 March 1937.

25c

Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas with members of his government before the declaration of war.

24g

Α 1936-dated circular issued by the West of England P&I Club concerning the Spanish Revolution.

26f

The Greek steamship NICOLAOS D. L. built in 1939 for N. D. Lykiardopulo.

26. RETURN TO SHIPYARDS

Since the mid-1930s several Greek shipowners placed a significant number of newbuilding orders in European shipyards. Some 40 ships were delivered from 1936 until the outbreak of WWI, which led to the abrupt termination of this activity.

26c

The steamship AGIOS GEORGIOS IV built in 1938 to the order of N. Nicolaou.

26b

The launching of the Greek steamship THEMONI of Kassos Steam Navigation in 1938.

26d

The KASSOS, delivered in 1939 by W. Doxford & Sons in Sunderland, UK, was the first newly-built Greek cargo motorship. In the picture, one of her owners, Michael Pneumaticos (left) and Basil Mavroleon during the ship’s trials.

27a

The 1922-built ocean liner NEA HELLAS, acquired by Goulandris Bros. in 1939. She operated as a troop carrier throughout WWII under British control and survived despite being torpedoed by an enemy submarine. Below, from left, brothers Basil, Nicolaos and Leonidas J. Goulandris with Merchant Marine undersecretary Amvrosios Tzifos (third from left) on the deck of the ship.

27. REVIVAL OF ΤΗΕ TRANSATLANTIC LINE

Shortly before the outbreak of WWII, brothers Basil, Nicolaos and Leonidas J. Goulandris acquired the British liner TUSCANIA and had it renamed as the Greek-flagged NEA HELLAS in order to re-establish the transatlantic service, which had seized to operate back in 1935.

28a

A press cutting of the newspaper The New York Times, dated 3 September 1939, referring to the outbreak of WWII.

26h

The launching of the Livanos-owned Greek steamship THEOFANO LIVANOS in 1936.

28c

The 1905-built steamship KOSTI, owned by John D. Chandris, hit a mine on 4 September 1939 and went on record as the first Greek war casualty.

28b

The 1917-built steamship DIAMANTIS, owned by the Diamantis Pateras family, was the first Greek ship to be torpedoed. The German submarine U-35, which hit the Greek vessel is depicted on the cover of the 16th October 1939 issue of LIFE magazine.

26g

The 1936-built Greek steamship EUGENIE LIVANOS of the Livanos group.

24f

A 1935-dated circular issued by the UK P&I Club on Greek sickness and injury claims.

24e

An article from the British magazine The Sphere, dated 14 July 1934, on government subsidies offered to British shipping.

26e

The steamship STAMATIOS G. EMBIRICOS built in 1936 to the order of S. G. Embiricos Ltd.

28. THE OUTBREAK OF WAR

On 3 September 1939, WWII broke out, leading to an unprecedented global conflict that caused havoc and destruction.

66f

The ore/oil carrier PASITHEA was built in 1971 in Japan for a company under the management of the Stratis Andreadis group.

68h

The cargo ship OKEANIS was built in 1973, by Elefsis Shipyards Co., for the Statis G. Andreadis group.

77j

The cover and an article featured in the March 1992 issue of Naftiliaki. On the left, a document of the Ministry of Merchant Marine in March 1982 on student syndicalism.

83g

Stathis Gourdomichalis, President of the Union Greek Shipowners, congratulates Prime Minister and Μinister of Marchant Marine Konstantinos Mitsotakis Marine on 12 April 1990. Left, an article on Greek shipping developments of the Lloyd’s List International in June 1990.

84. STATE AND SHIPPING

The last decade of the 20th century signaled a new era for the Greek shipping industry. In this context, Greeks, after strengthening their fleet with low-age second-hand acquisitions, started placing orders for the building of new innovative ships in shipyards in the Far East. At the same time, the Greek registry continued losing its strength following the global prevalence of open registries as well as the dramatic decrease in the number of Greek seafarers.

85. PIONEERING NEWBUILDINGS IN THE PASSENGER FLEET

Τhe 1990s were also characterized by an unprecedended newbuilding activity in the Greek-owned passenger shipping sector. Beyond the impressive investments of the Chandris group in luxury cruise ships, initiatives taken by the Pericles Panagopulos, head of Attica Enterprises, included the placement of orders in 1993 for the building of the first pioneering SUPERFAST ships, a move that soon prompted others to follow. A notable parameter of this development was the entry of passenger shipping into the Athens Stock Exchange that facilitated the building of innovative ships, which were mainly employed in the coastal service and the Adriatic routes.

86b

The UGS presidium after visiting Prime Minister Costas Simitis in 1997. From left, Christos Kanellakis, Nikos Efthymiou, President John C. Lyras, Diamantis Pateras, Pavlos Ioannidis, Spyros Alexandratos and Theodoros Veniamis.

86. THE GREEK REGISTRY UNDER PRESSURE

Despite the registration of several newly-built ships under the Greek flag, the decline of the Greek registry continued unabated in the second half of the decade. At the same time, the number of Greek seafarers continued being reduced. Efforts by the government to meet this challenge proved fruitless, however this did not stop the momentum gained by the Greek-owned fleet as it approached its entry into a new millennium with the vision to cement its leadership in the world seaborne trade.

87. SWITCH TO NEWBUILDINGS

The Greeks’ return to the shipyards intensified by the mid-1990’s, resulting in the building of a total of 249 vessels by the end of the century. Of these, 119 ships were built in South Korea, which was rapidly emerging as a major shipbuilding power. In 1998, the longstanding bonds between the Chinese state and Greek shipowners moved to another level, through the construction of the first Greek-owned ship by a Chinese shipyard. This was the beginning of an extensive co-operation that has led this great country into the forefront of world shipbuilding in recent times.

25. ESTABLISHMENT OF UNDERMINISTRY OF MERCHANT MARINE

On 5 August 1936, the Ioannis Metaxas cabinet established an underministry of Merchant Marine appointing lawyer Deucalion Rediadis as its first undersecretary. A few months later, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping was established with George E. Embiricos elected as its first president.

26a

The Swedish-flagged tanker ARISTON owned by Aristotle Onassis and one of the largest motor tankers in the world, was built in 1938.

30b

The German swastika was raised in the Acropolis but never on Greek ships.

30. GREECE UNDER THE GERMAN RULE

Following the defeat of the Italian Forces, Germany had no alternative but to invade Greece with its own troops. On 6th April 1941, the Germans invaded the country from the Greek-Bulgarian borders. Following successive air attacks, almost 120 Greek vessels, including the entire passenger fleet and five hospital ships were hit and sunk.

31c

Several Greek ships that were requisitioned by the Greek government with the telegrams acknowledging their requisition. In the top row, the 1920-built MOUNT TAURUS, followed by the 1918-built ELENI, the 1913-built TAXIARCHIS and bottom, the 1913-built OROPOS.

31d

Prime Minister Emmanuel Tsouderos (centre), Finance Minister Kyriakos Varvaressos (left) and the Greek Ambassador to the UK Charalambos Simopoulos (right) visiting the Foreign Office.

31e

The first page of the Anglo-Greek shipping agreement of May 1941.

32b

Above, the 1928-built Greek steamship PELEUS. On 13 March 1944 she was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine U-582. Her survivors were gunned down by members of the crew of the submarine. After the War, following the testimony of three crew members who escaped the massacre, the German captain and officers responsible went on trial and subsequently were sentenced to death. On the left, a letter from her captain, dated 1941, confirming her requisition by the Greek government.

32a

The photos depict several of the Greek ships perished during the War. First row left, from top to bottom, the steamships GAROUFALIA, ANNITSA, AEGEUS, ARGO, CONSTANTINOS LOULOUDIS, STAMATIOS G. EMBIRICOS, CORINTHIAKOS and KEHREA. Second row left, from top to bottom, the steamships CONDYLIS, DIRPHYS, ATHINAI, ANDREAS, ATHINA LIVANOS, MOSCHA L. GOULANDRIS, NELLIE and ELLIN. Third row, on the right, from top to bottom, the steamships NICOLAOU OURANIA,, STYLIANOS CHANDRIS, MARIA STATHATOS, MOUNT HELMOS, NITSA and TASIS.

34e

A press cutting of the Shipbuilding and Shipping Record, dated 3 August 1944, referring to Greek war shipping losses.

34f

A press cutting of the daily Neos Kosmos dated 23 April 1945, referring to losses amounting to 53,280,000 pounds suffered by Greek shipping during the War.

40e

The government’s effort for enhancing the growth of the national registry, led also to initiatives to improve the standards of maritime education. In this respect, the first Maritime School in Aspropyrgos, near Athens, was inaugurated in 1955.

11. EUROPEAN PORTS IN EARLY 20th CENTURY

Αt the beginning of the 20th century, the presence of steamships was evident in most European ports.

12. EVOLUTION OF GREEK STEAMSHIP ACTIVITY

The growth of the Greek merchant fleet continued unabated in early 20th century following efforts by traditional shipping families as well as the decisive contribution of Greek money lenders, both in Greece and abroad.

13. THE BORDEAUX MARITIME EXHIBITION

Shipowner and politician Epaminondas C. Embiricos played a key role in Greece’s participation in the International Maritime Exhibition of Bordeaux in 1907, specially organized to celebrate the achievements of all maritime nations since the introduction of steam.

3a

From left, brothers Pantelis, Constantis and Antonios G. Lemos, master mariners from the island of Oinousses.

3c

Master mariner Ioannis P. Goulandris, from the island of Andros.

3b

Master mariner Christoforos C. Saliaris, from Vrontados, Chios.

35h

A press cutting, dated 4 November 1947, referring to US merchant ships allocated to foreign interests.

34a

The Greek maritime newspaper To Timoni, dated 15 October 1944, published in Alexandria, announces the liberation of Athens and Piraeus.

31. THE ANGLO-GREEK SHIPPING AGREEMENT

Ιn April 1940 an agreement was reached with the British government to charter 150 Greek ships over a period of six months, while later, following the German invasion in April 1941, the entire Greek fleet was requisitioned by the Greek government and was chartered to the British for the duration of the War according to terms stipulated in the Anglo-Greek shipping agreement signed by the Tsouderos government. Beyond the above, a small number of Greek ships were chartered to the Swiss government.

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