A 34-year-old British tourist has died after being pulled from the sea off the Greek island of Zakynthos, commonly known as Zante, following a swimming incident near Marathonisi on Tuesday afternoon (August 18). The Zakynthos Port Authority has launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Incident near Marathonisi
The man, a British citizen, encountered difficulties while swimming close to Marathonisi, a small islet popular with day visitors. Fellow beachgoers raised the alarm after observing him in distress in the water. Personnel from the Zakynthos Port Authority, assisted by individuals on the beach, retrieved him from the sea and immediately began resuscitation efforts.
According to authorities, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was performed on the man before he was transported to Zakynthos General Hospital. Medical staff at the hospital later confirmed his death. The Port Authority subsequently initiated a preliminary investigation into the events leading to the incident.
Official statement from Greek authorities
In a statement, Greek authorities confirmed: "Yesterday afternoon (Tuesday), the Zakynthos Port Authority was informed of a 34-year-old foreigner (British citizen) in a difficult position near the Marathonisi area of Laganas, Zakynthos."
They added: "With the assistance of beachgoers, he was transported to the shore, where he was provided with first aid using the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) method. The 34-year-old was picked up by a patrol boat and transported to the port of Agios Sostis, Zakynthos. Subsequently, the man was taken to the Zakynthos General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A preliminary investigation is being conducted by the Zakynthos Port Authority."
Zante's popularity among British tourists
The Greek island of Zante has long been a favoured destination for British holidaymakers. A 2025 Which? Travel report named it the most overtouristed destination, estimating that overnight visitors outnumber local residents by a ratio of 150 to one. The incident adds to concerns about safety and overcrowding on the island, though the investigation into the drowning remains ongoing.
