Fatal boating incident off Cape Greco leads to new maritime safety measures

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, a tragic maritime accident occurred off Cape Greco, Cyprus, when severe weather caused the sinking of two vessels, "Perla Bianca" and "Petsas I." The 77-year-old businessman and owner of "Perla Bianca," Dimis Mavropoulos, died in the incident. An autopsy performed by forensic pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou concluded that his death was caused by drowning and multiple bodily injuries sustained during the sinking. Six people were rescued by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, while investigations by the police and the Marine Accident and Incident Investigation Committee are ongoing.

Following the tragedy, government officials held an emergency meeting to address gaps in maritime safety regulations. The Council of Ministers is expected to approve a temporary decree banning vessel departures during adverse weather conditions based on ship size and type. This measure will remain in effect until a formal law establishing a national Coast Guard is enacted to unify maritime coordination. Meanwhile, authorities are coordinating the removal of the wrecks and any potential debris from the area to protect the marine environment, with a NAVTEX notice currently in effect for mariners.