Satellite surveillance reveals high boat traffic in Cyprus marine protected areas

A comprehensive study using artificial intelligence and satellite imagery has revealed significant maritime traffic within three of Cyprus’s most important Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Between the summers of 2024 and 2025, a total of 2,060 boat detections were recorded in the Lady’s Mile, Latsi-Akamas, and Cape Greco regions. Notably, more than half of these vessels were operating without an active Automatic Identification System (AIS) signal, highlighting critical gaps in existing coastal surveillance measures.

These protected areas are ecologically vital, serving as habitats for Posidonia oceanica, a seagrass species essential for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and coastal protection. Experts warn that because this seagrass grows extremely slowly, physical damage from boats can persist for decades. The analysis, conducted by PERIOPSIS LTD, utilized visible spectrum satellite imagery to detect vessels, comparing these findings against official AIS tracking data to identify unauthorized or unmonitored maritime activity.

The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced monitoring of sensitive coastal waters to mitigate environmental pressure. While no specific legal proceedings were announced, the data provides a new baseline for authorities to evaluate potential threats to these habitats and strengthen future enforcement efforts in the designated areas.