A 35-year-old man came close to drowning off the coast of Heraklion on Tuesday morning after being caught in strong sea currents while swimming. The man struggled against the waves before being rescued. The incident serves as a reminder that Cretan waters, while inviting, can carry powerful and unpredictable currents, particularly in exposed areas.
Tourists swimming in Crete should always check local conditions before entering the water, swim at beaches with a lifeguard on duty, and pay attention to flag warnings. Red or yellow flags indicate dangerous or caution-level conditions and should be taken seriously. Avoid swimming alone in unfamiliar spots, and stay within designated swimming zones. If caught in a current, do not fight it directly but swim parallel to shore until free of it, then make your way back.