ATHENS — The maximum passenger capacity in ferries is raised to 80 pct for non-cabin ferries and to 85 pct for cabin ferries, from the existing 60 pct and 65 pct respectively, authorities said on Sunday.

Only a maximum of up to four people is allowed in any passengers' or crew's cabin, only if these four are first-and second-degree relatives, or people with special needs who need assistance.

The operational passenger maximum capacity on high-speed and catamaran vessels may be raised to 80 pct from the current 50 pct, only if they have the necessary air filtering systems, known as High Efficiency Particulate Air systems.

The social distancing measure of a minimum 1,5 meters among all passengers and at any time stays in effect, they added, while violating these preventive measures carries a 150-euro fine to passengers and crew and an administrative fine of 1,000 euros to the shipowner, manager, masters and government certification bodies and agents.