On the 28th of November the traditional naming as well as official delivery ceremony of the Greek ship "Ariana" took place at the Sasebo Shipyard of the Sasebo Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (SSK). “Ariana” is a Panamax type bulk carrier ship of 70,000 tons, belonging to the Greek Shipping Company "Andriaki". It is one of a series of three bulk carriers and tankers to be delivered by the abovementioned Japanese Shipyard to the same Greek company throughout the coming year (2006).

The Ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Greece Mr. K. Rodoussakis, as well as the Chief of the Greek Coastal Guard Admiral Th. Gklezakos who came all the way from Greece, invited by "Andriaki" Company. The representatives of "Andriaki" Mr. Al. Papagos, Mr. Griparis, Director-General Mr. Korkodeilos and other members of the Piraeus and London Headquarters staff as well as the crew of the ship headed by the captain Mr. Psomadelis and other Greek officers were also present, together with the members of the international crew of the ship.

All the Board and the Executives of the SSK, under the very hospitable President Mr. H. Morishima were there, also welcoming and generously treating the guests from Greece, the UK (London) and Japan.

The Ceremony followed the traditional ritual of the playing of the national anthems of Japan and Greece, hoisting the Greek flag as well, breaking the cordon with the bottle of champagne by the sponsor of the naming Mrs. Morishima, spouse of the President of SSK. The religious ceremony with the blessing of the ship and wish for good sailing was officiated by the Orthodox Priest Father Na Chang Kyu who came for this purpose from the Orthodox Metropolis of Korea (Seoul).

The SSK organized, under the guidance of the President Mr. Morishima, also very well presented dinners and parties on the occasion (including a karaoke evening on the eve of the Ceremony), as well as traditional sake barrel opening just to celebrate the launching of the new ship and to wish good sailings. Traditional exchange of presents was also in the program of the ceremony. This very joyful opportunity was another bright milestone in the longstanding history of the Japanese – Greek maritime relations.

text and photos: Embassy of Greece in Japan