tourism

Crete tourism bodies calm pufferfish fears with no attack records

Friday, 26 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Tourism organizations and Medical Associations across Crete have issued a joint statement urging calm over recent reports about pufferfish (lagokefali) in local waters. The statement confirms that no recorded attack on a swimmer has occurred in Crete, and authorities want to prevent unnecessary alarm from affecting visitor confidence. Pufferfish have been spotted in Mediterranean waters in increasing numbers in recent years, a trend linked to warming seas. While the fish carry a potent toxin and should never be eaten, they are not aggressive toward swimmers. The risk to beachgoers is considered negligible. Tourists visiting Cretan beaches can swim as normal. If you spot a pufferfish, do not handle or attempt to catch it. If found washed ashore, do not touch it and notify local authorities or beach staff.

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