Vessels are avoiding the Black Sea due to security concerns from the Russia-Ukraine war, leading to congestion in the Sea of Marmara.
The Sea of Marmara has turned into a ship parking lot: Ships not heading to the Black Sea have filled the anchorage areas.
The targeting of commercial vessels in the Russia-Ukraine war has prompted shipowners to reassess their Black Sea routes, directing them towards the Sea of Marmara. The anchorage areas in Istanbul and Marmara have filled up with ships waiting to head to the Black Sea due to security concerns.
The increasing risk of attacks on maritime trade in the war between Russia and Ukraine is directly affecting ship movements in the region. Numerous commercial vessels that do not wish to go to the Black Sea or have postponed their voyage plans have started to wait in the anchorage areas of the Sea of Marmara and off the coast of Istanbul.
Industry representatives indicate that the congestion has become particularly evident at the entrances to the Bosphorus and in waiting areas in the Marmara. Due to the filling of areas usually used for short-term waiting, some ships are reported to be forced to wait offshore.
Security concerns have increased in the Black Sea.
The targeting of commercial vessels in attacks in the Black Sea has changed risk assessments for voyages to the region. Ships are deciding whether to head to the Black Sea based on cargo, flag, insurance conditions, and security analyses.
For commercial vessels navigating in waters close to the war zone, insurance costs, operational risks, and crew safety have become significant issues.
Congestion in Marmara is affecting maritime traffic.
The increasing number of ships in the anchorage areas around Istanbul and Marmara is also complicating the management of maritime traffic. Authorities and industry representatives warn that if the congestion persists, waiting times may increase.
Maritime circles emphasize that international maritime security mechanisms need to be strengthened for commercial vessels to navigate safely in the Black Sea.
The Turkish maritime industry is closely monitoring the situation.
The Black Sea is one of Turkey's important trade routes for grain, energy, and general cargo transportation. The security issues in the region are considered developments that could affect not only ship operations but also freight markets and logistics chains.
The congestion in the anchorage areas of Marmara stands out as one of the new effects of the war on maritime trade.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
