Two boats sink off Cape Greco during storm leaving one dead

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, a severe storm off the coast of Cape Greco near Ayia Napa resulted in a maritime emergency involving multiple vessels. According to initial reports, three boats encountered dangerous conditions. One vessel struck reefs and sank, while reports from Europa-Cyprus indicate that a total of two pleasure boats sank after hitting rocks due to gale-force winds.

A large-scale rescue operation was launched, involving police units and a helicopter. Police initially assisted the skipper of one boat to safety. By 16:00, a rescue helicopter was deployed to extract individuals stranded on the vessels. Six people were rescued in total, with two hospitalized for treatment. One individual, initially reported missing, was discovered unconscious on the rocks in a remote area; after being airlifted to the Famagusta Hospital, he was pronounced dead.

Authorities have concluded the primary search and rescue efforts. On Sunday morning, August 30, officials from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research are scheduled to arrive at the site to conduct environmental tests and evaluate potential marine pollution resulting from the shipwrecks.