Its turquoise waters and warm weather attract sightseers from all over the world. Further reading: Hiking trails in Corfu, Greece. At one point, he wrote that 300 ships had been destroyed and as many as 20k men were eaten by sea monsters. This tiny cove is filled with a mixture of tiny pebbles and sand that don't leave much room for spreading out. They also have big, black eyes. So yes, there are sharks in Greece, even a number of species. Scorpions are fairly common in Greece, from its many islands to the capital of Athens, so it really does pay to be vigilant in order to avoid a painful sting. This is the only venomous snake in Greece. The Ohia snake is the only venomous snake you will find in Greece, but they are fairly common. The landscape of this Dodecanese island has so much eye-catching beauty that its no wonder Rhodes is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. If youre asking yourself the question: are there sharks in Greece that you can eat? then the answer is yes. Stingrays live in the waters surrounding Greece and, while their venom won't kill you, it is very painful. Only about four have proven fatal since records began. https://www.americanoceans.org/facts/can-basking-sharks-eat-humans/, https://oceana.org/marine-life/spiny-dogfish/, https://www.sharksider.com/10-incredible-facts-thresher-sharks/, http://www.sharkattacks.com/historical.htm, https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/how-to-stay-safe-from-sharks-while-swimming, https://greekreporter.com/2021/04/28/rare-sight-shark-swimming-shallows-greek-beach/, https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/greece/10-facts-about-the-ancient-greeks/, https://welovesharks.club/7-of-the-most-common-misconceptions-about-sharks/. Source: Piotr Wawrzyniuk / shutterstock. Their bites can be incredibly painful, and they are known to be very eager snappers. It blends into a lighter shade on the sides and white on the underside. While there are sharks spotted around Greece, the most common sea creatures that pose the biggest threat to holidaymakers are stingrays and the Portuguese Man O War. Spring and autumn are the best months for outdoor activities such as hiking. Intense stinging can lead to scarring or even hyperpigmented marks on the skin that remain for years. A taxi or pre-booked transfer costs about 25-30 euro, or more if you are arriving after midnight. Although you can visit any beach on the island, Prasonisi Beach is the one you want to visit. Just ask Monica from Friends. If you get a jellyfish sting, no need for anyone to become Chandler. The harbour is nestled in the centre of the island with various swimming spots and pine trees surrounding it. According to the stories, ships sailed beneath its giant legs and every night the passage was closed with an enormous chain. Yes, youll find sharks in the Aegean Sea located on the east coast. Due to their speed and strength, they are capable of harming and even killing people, though, so you shouldnt try to get too close to them. Do not let it go on for too long, though. Yes, there are dangerous sea creatures in the waters surrounding Greece and its islands. Plus, as they contain venom, the affected area stings and burns. The country of city-states is one of the most well-known in the ancient world. Better still, even if you do encounter a shark during your time in Greece, the majority of sharks that can be found in this part of the world are not the most dangerous types of shark out there. Their bodies are slim and narrow, and their snouts are slightly pointed. As always, medical attention is recommended if you find yourself on the wrong end of a Portuguese Man O War, especially because their venom has been known to cause severe side effects, including the sensation of an allergic reaction (including swelling and heart problems) if the venom reaches the lymph nodes. The other two names they go by are stonefish and rockfish. Smooth hammerhead sharks are potentially dangerous to people, but attacks on humans are rare. So yes, there are sharks in Greece, even a number of species. These are not very confident sharks, so they usually swim away if they get approached. Shortfin makos are relatively large. If you dont remove them, they will continue to inject poison into your skin. Unfortunately, poaching has led to a decline in the number of great white sharks in the ocean. Once you have established you are also a predator, check the scene carefully for other sharks. What about the shark attacks in Greece?. So painful, in fact, that the Ancient Greeks were hugely afeared of them and even claimed that their barbed tails could pierce their armor. Copyright © 2023 Discover Greece | Created by the Greek Tourism Sector. The few sharks that people have encountered in the Aegean Sea are the spiny dogfish, basking shark, and the thresher shark. Their diet includes very small fish, zooplankton, and invertebrates. A few restaurants back the main beach, my favourite was Flyer. At the edge of the dock stands the small fort of Agios Nikolaos, built in the 1460s. Im passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Even so, if it happens to you,here are some tips on how to deal with the situation: The intense water beast is close enough for you to make eye contact. And the chance of seeing one is rare. When visiting any terrain like this, you may well encounter one of these snakes. From The Waters Edge TV 151K views 9 years ago The Insane Biology of: The Orca Real Science 2.5M. Sharks are some of the creatures that you are likely to encounter on your trip to Greece are sharks. As a precaution, you should wear sea sandals when on the beach and in the water. If you want to reduce the chances of being stuck by scorpions, you should ensure that the area you are exploring is scorpion-free. Furthermore, most shark attacks have occurred near the French coast, not the Aegean Sea. You may find it surprising, but there actually are a couple of species of these fearsome creatures living in the balmy waters around this southern European nation. 20 years ago a fisherman did report seeing a great white shark swimming in the Aegean Sea. There are different snakes that you are going to encounter in the Greek islands of Crete. There are regular ferries from mainland Greece to Rhodes throughout the year, with daily routes from the port of Piraeus in Athens (approx. This makes the likelihood of being bitten low. Great white sharks are one of the most dangerous sea predators in the world because of their aggressive nature and ability to inflict deadly injuries. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. What are they, and how can they be avoided? The chances of running into the common stingray are not high, but care should be taken and in the worst case, a sting like this can be fatal (after all, it was what killed "the crocodile hunter" Steve Irwin, although we can take comfort from the fact it didn't occur in Greece, but at the Great Barrier Reef). Luckily, most of those incidents happened in the previous century, meaning the stats show its a little safer to swim in the Aegean these days. The most feared aquatic predator, the great white shark, is one of them. Theres no need to panic if you see one, though theyre not dangerous at all. Remove any tentacles attached to the area. In fact, as we probably all already known, shark attacks are very rare anyway so, despite their violent capabilities, a shark attack in Greece is highly unlikely, with only 15 shark attacks having been reported in the region from the previous 170 years. Hi there! Its important to stay out of their way. Unfortunately, even here you can encounter dangerous sea creatures beneath the waves that can make for a nasty experience. Additionally, be careful where youre walking, as most scorpions take refuge under rocks and so the most likely place you will find yourself being stung is on the bottom of your foot, your ankle, or your lower leg. They are most often found along reefs, where they lurk in cracks and crevices for their prey. The quaint villages of Rhodes also include Trianda with its Mineralogy and Palaeontology Museum, Kritinia with the Castello Castle, Lardos with its Byzantine castle, Salakos with its wells, Psinthos with one of the largest town squares in the Dodecanese, Asklipio with its beautiful Byzantine church and Eleousa with its Venetian buildings and picturesque tavernas. A beach in Benidorm was closed this week after a boy was bitten by what may. Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and the most eastern in the southern Aegean Sea. Rhodes. Are there sharks in Greece? They typically measure around 8.5-11.5 feet, but they can grow to a maximum of 16 feet long. If you love active holidays, youll adore outdoor adventures in Greece: Hiking, sailing, kayaking, biking even skiing. A member of the moray eel family, this long fish can grow up to one metre or more in length and has very sharp teeth with a dangerous bite. This marine beast is responsible for the majority of shark attacks on humans across the world. But sharks are quite rare in these parts and the chances of encountering one during your voyage are pretty low and even if you do, the vast majority pose no threat at all. Bull sharks can swim in fresh water. Greece is a beautiful country with a rich history that is truly captivating to all who visit its shores. While their bites are not commonly fatal, they are guaranteed to be painful. Only one of those events has led to a death. Bringing a car there is useless because the island doesnt have a lot of roads. There arent many of them, and most dont pose much of a threat to people. Are Sharks Endangered? Scorpionfish don't attack, rather rely on their stealth. Unfortunately, they aren't simply spines venom glands run along them. Their name refers to the deep blue coloring on their backs. That said, whether youre snorkeling around Hydra or swimming in the warm waters of Crete, the chances of seeing the blue pointer are extremely slim. Move away! It is considered very dangerous because of its extremely powerful venom. And don't underestimate the injury either. The way they breathe depends on the shark. These huge marine creatures live in relatively shallow waters, and often get quite close to the shore, so you might even spot one while soaking up the sun on one of Greeces beautiful beaches. However, if you want to check out these creatures, then you should have a guide who will take you to the mountain ranges where they are known to thrive. You can easily identify thresher sharks by their long, slender tail and torpedo shape. As well as being painful and generally unpleasant, the spines break easily making it difficult to remove them from the wound. The most famous road in the Old Town of Rhodes is the Street of the Knights, restored just as it was in the Middle Ages. If you want to relax at the beach and swim in crystal clear waters, then Rhodes' is clearly a great destination for your holidays.. When it comes to the stingrays you will encounter in the Mediterranean there is both some good news and some bad news. There is no aquatic creature you should avoid like the Portuguese man o war because it is known to cause dangerous attacks on humans. A jellyfish sting hurts! Okay, you made eye contact and looked around for more. It has been said that Rhodes was the first of the Aegean islands to cultivate a vineyard and make wine. If they sting you, put buckets of seawater on the area. This actually tells the shark that you are prey and to hunt you down. He saw the shark, which seemed to be basking under the sun hence the name. When they eat food, they look like a dog eating out of its bowl. The place attracts fans of marine life, as a large part of the seas around Alonissos is recognised as a marine reserve. Immense pain and burning lasting up to several days, most commonly caused by stepping on the weeverfish in the sand. The way the biological system works is that, since they do not have lungs as we do, oxygen has to be processed by going into the bloodstream. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes. That could possibly be the first shark attack ever written. There are several paths to take with each path offering a surprise at the end. The Great White is built to withstand cold waters but seems to seek out warm water. It lives mostly in offshore temperate and tropical waters around the globe, including the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas surrounding Greece. Sharks are some of the most fearsome creatures on the planet, and we all know what they are capable of. One polyp floats near the surface and serves as a float to which the other polyps are attached. Knowing about them and the measures to take if you see one ensures you have an enjoyable time in the water. While you wait, you can soak the area in hot water. When youre in the water, look for a creature with a multi-coloured and unique pattern on the body. While less commonly found in the Aegean or Ionian, they are very commonplace in the Mediterranean ocean, so you must take extra precautions if you plan on swimming or partaking in watersports in this sea. To avoid that, wear sea sandals when you enter the water. Their long spines coated with venomous mucus that protrude from their pelvic fins, dorsal fin and anal fin are only used to defend themselves, so if you're careful, you shouldn't be in any danger. Founder of the Travel Snippet blog, travel and nature lover. Are there any poisonous snakes in Greece? The most common injuries are if someone harms it. In a lush, green canyon, about 1km wide, there is a unique forest with zities, trees that look like planes. Be honest, when was the last time you watched a decent shark movie? Whether you are going to explore the capital, Athens or you are going to explore the Greek islands. So the best time to visit is April-mid-June and September-October, when the summer crowds have thinned (with swimming at its best from June-October). Copyright 2022 Shark Utopia, 12 Tourist Attractions in Slovenia to Visi, Things To Do in 4 Bijou Winter Destinations, Why Are There So Many Breathtaking Castles , Cotton Castle Pamukkale Unique Hot Sprin, Hot Air Balloon Pamukkale 5 Top Tours (+P, Spinalonga History Unravel the Hidden Sec, 12 Tourist Attractions in Slovenia to Visit, Things To Do in 4 Bijou Winter Destinations in Europe. Their eyes are positioned on each side of the hammer. If you visit the islands of Greece, you should watch out for the sharks because you are likely to encounter these dangerous creatures. On top of their body, there are two spines, which they use to protect themselves against predators. Including its tentacles, the Portuguese man o' war can reach a length of around 10 metres but has been known to extend to 30 metres or more. The bites from the moray eels are very painful and the creature will release toxins into your body this will cause blood-clotting, pain in the affected area, hallucinations, and difficulty breathing among other severe conditions that could lead to death if the situation is not dealt with immediately. So its no coincidence that in ancient times Rhodians were considered the largest wine merchants in the Mediterranean. Is there any bull sharks in the waters of Greece? The creatures are characterized by their slipper nature and perfect camouflaging techniques, and since they hide well, there is a high chance that they might unknowingly attack you. So, what dangerous creatures can you lurkbeneaththe surface in Greek waters and what should you do if it happens? Lets connect. Society really started to form, however, over 3k years ago and became the birthplace of philosophy, theatre, and a slew of gods and goddesses. This means that many people who have suffered the sting of a stingray often experience side effects such as muscle pain, vomiting, and diarrhea as well as the pain and inflammation that comes from the cuts. In this example, there is light rain about 10 km northeast and heavy rain 5 km southwest of you. Faliraki is popular with younger tourists. An overwhelming majority of sharks have a particular fondness for saltwater. Dive Centers Show all Dive Centers However, if you feel any unusual tingling, lightheadedness, nausea, or blurred vision, it is best to get yourself to a hospital or doctor as quickly as possible in order to get the necessary treatment. It's a vibrant university city and working port, with a UNESCO World Heritage-list medieval old town at its core. Across the world, there has only been one case of a fatal attack caused by this species of shark and around 30 non-deadly biting incidents. The stingrays are some of the most dangerous creatures you will encounter during your trip to Greece. Thresher sharks are usually found in the open water and rarely stray into coastal areas. The Mediterranean moray eel is a fairly common sight in the waters off the shore of Greece and its islands. The largest and most populated of the Dodecanese Islands in Greece, Rhodes Island is the best location to base your Dodecanese Islands diving holiday. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad. The institute also carries out research on fisheries and hydrology of the Aegean region. Though rare, great whites have been occasionally spotted around Greece. Instead, fight the urge to flee and instead give them the staredown. These are medium-sized requiem sharks that can reach up to around 10 feet in length. With the number of locals and tourists alike enjoying both sides of the Greek coast, the beaches are generally deemed very safe. Located at the end of the Adriatic Sea, the island is home to the Vathy harbour. Since they live under the sand, theres a chance of stepping on one of them accidentally. Theyre flat and elongated at both sides, without an indentation at the center, which is present in other hammerhead species. If you are exploring the Greek islands and the mainland, then you should be wary of these tiny creatures. 1. They are quite long and slender, so their weight rarely exceeds 300 pounds. Boasting unique geology and natural beauty, it is a remote paradise, ideal for those who want to unwind away from the hustle and bustle. However, you should never underestimate them even the ancient Greeks warned of them (Pliny the Elder, for example). If you have similar symptoms, always seek medical attention (this also applies if you have felt a sting but are not sure what caused it). Greece is a paradise for swimmers! What the fisherman mistook as a dangerous shark was more likely a small whale trying to find its way home. Built for shark enthusiats by a shark enthusiast. The waters temperature should be as hot as you can endure. You can avoid a painful bite from one of these snakes by staying alert when youre in areas where they might be roaming. There are slightly over 150 brown bears in Greece and if you are exploring the Rodopis Mountains then you are likely to encounter them. In fact, there were only a handful of biting incidents that have involved this type of shark globally. Without a certain amount, a sharks cells can explode and cause extreme bloating and death. Are there any colors to stay away from to avoid sharks? Thomas Pennant, a naturalist, discovered them in the 18th century. The brown bears are predatory and ready to attack immediately they see you; you should be well prepared. When we think of the dangers lurking within the ocean, it's a question that naturally springs to mind what about sharks, the most feared creatures of the sea? Guess whats the most dangerous animal in Europe. Scooping an entire shoal of planktons in their mouth in one go is a piece of cake for them. These insects will cause severe damage to your body because their bites often deliver a huge amount of venom and can cause dangerous effects on the body. If you see him opening the mouth or lowering the pectoral fin, do your best to get out of the water as coolly and quickly as possible. The island has become a well-known sailing destination due to its number of crevices and coves and beaches, reaching all to the Hydra or Peloponnesian land. On the east coast is the Aegean Sea. To defend themselves, they arch their back and release a mild poison. So, are there sharks in Greece? 23 Epic Things to Do in Rhodes Greece. Their size might frighten you but in actuality, these passive sharks mind their own business. In conclusion, Greece guarantees to deliver one of the best experiences to you when you visit the country and the islands at large. The countrys history is exceptional, and you will need a proper time before you can familiarize yourself with the country. List of the Different Types of Sharks in Greece. If you get a sea urchin or anemone sting, it can result in a serious allergic reaction. Dine on regional cuisine, visit ancient sites, learn about the history of the Knights of Malta, and much more. The name spiny dogfish refers to the two venomous spines on their bodies that are used in self-defense. Rhodes Old Town Another telltale sign is their enormous mouth measuring a metre in width. Theyre deep purple on top with silver sides and white bellies. Copyright 2005 2023. yachtingcom s.r.o. For this reason, there is only a select number of beach chairs available. And there may even be man-eating sharks, such as the great white shark. Here, youll admire the impressive Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, built in the 4th century BC. Mostly, the sharks that have been seen off the coast are not likely to attack humans. If you are affected over a larger area of your body, it can cause nausea or vomiting, weakness, headaches and in rare cases, loss of consciousness. Not only are their tails barbed with razor-sharp fangs that can inflict really painful wounds, but they also elicit venom into the wound site. Rhodes has an airport with regular direct flights to Athens and international arrivals during the busier months. 7 Top Options, Zakynthos Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) All You Need To Know, Spring Sunshine: The 5 Best Greek Islands to Visit in May, One Week in Finland: The Perfect 7 Day Itinerary, The Top 5 Best Places To Live In Germany With Family, Stray Dogs in Bali: What You Need to Know About Bali Dogs. If the wound becomes infected, the sufferer can develop a fever or becomes nauseous. In fact, in the past 170 years, there have been 15 recorded shark attacks. 3. Looking for great ideas to build your holiday around? That's why we have prepared a guide on how to treat and manage common and more serious stings What to do if a jellyfish stings you?. Spiny dogfish, also known as mud shark, spurdog, and piked dogfish, doesnt call the Aegean Sea their home but sometimes, go there on a mini holiday. 18 attacks came out of the Best to stick to darker colors to not stand out. Ithaca is famous for its pebble coves, blue waters, and white cliffs. The Aegean Sea, which runs along the Greece coast, has only a few recorded shark attacks. Are there sharks in Greece? Youll find options for every taste, from large hotel chains and all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels in and around the Old Town and spread around the island. None of them occurred in Greece. There haven't been many reports of the common stingray attacking anyone in Greece. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. It was built by the Master of Aubusson in 1476 on a cliff facing the Aegean. Sharks are rarely spotted in Greece. Later, around 240 BCE, Greek poet Leonidas of Tarentum wrote in detail about a fisherman who was attacked by a sea monster while being pulled onto a boat. They have one or two very sharp spines on the tip of their tails, which can be up to 35 centimetres long. Their tops are metallic brown and their undersides are white. Hopefully, by now the shark is headed out, but if not, notice the behavior. Luckily, there are not many types of animals in Greece that are dangerous to humans. When you swim in the Aegean Sea, youll encounter unfriendly sea creatures. On the seaside, you will discover many . We know youre not exactly thrilled about swimming with sharks in Greece but you have nothing to worry about. And, luckily, none of their spiders are venomous or dangerous to humans. There have been a total of 25 shark attacks in GREECE. In addition, the spine itself breaks off and needs to be surgically removed. So, it would be wise to avoid light colors and anything neon. The medieval Old Town, port of Mandraki, Acropolis of Lindos, ancient cities of Kamiros and Ialysos, Valley of the Butterflies. Other jellyfish to watch out for include the compass jellyfish and the Forskalia edwardsi. In fact, in the past 170 years, there have been 15 recorded shark attacks. Immediate medical attention is mandatory if you do not want the wounds to develop into something serious. The Mediterranean waters and surrounding areas. They swing their tail at predators at high speeds reaching up to 80 miles per hour. If you exercise caution in the oceans around Greece, as you always should, you are not at serious risk of suffering a stingray attack. These types of sharks, for various reasons, are unlikely to attack. Others use large gulps of water and pump it through slower. These bees are usually aggressive and will sting you even when they are not provoked. If a spiny weeverfish feels threatened, it doesn't swim away but sticks up the spines in its dorsal fin. But, there are still sharks in the Aegean Sea?. When you enter the sea, be aware of your surroundings, as lurking in the water are sea anemones, jellyfish, and sea urchins. Sure, its not home to particularly savage beasts or wildly poisonous creepy-crawlies, but it would be wrong to say that there is absolutely no risk of encountering some dangerous animals in Greece. They usually reach around 10 feet during adulthood, but sometimes can grow even bigger than that! Are there sharks in Greece the conclusion. Ohia Snakes. Greece has a fantastic coastline and one of the places where the Greek border interacts with the waters is the Mediterranean shores.

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