Latest news with #MVPanagiotis
Daily Mirror
04-08-2025
- Daily Mirror
I visited one of Greece's most famous beaches - it's beautiful but there's a catch
Zakynthos is an island full of natural beauty, but one of its most famous spots has a catch to it I've been fortunate to witness some truly stunning beaches. Born and raised in New Zealand, home to some of the world's most beautiful coastlines, and having journeyed across Australia and Europe, I've seen my fair share of renowned spots. Yet, this extraordinary beach might just top the list as one of the most breathtaking. Recently, I found myself on the Greek island of Zakynthos for a friend's birthday. While there, we opted for a boat tour around the coastline to soak up some of the island's natural splendour. Tourist tries 'world's hardest drive' that's 'more insane than rollercoasters' I'm a travel writer — the 1 unusual item I always pack for long-haul flights Zakynthos, it turns out, is brimming with such beauty. Our boat trip, courtesy of Golden Dolphin Tours, took us from Alkyes Port along the island's coast, offering a fresh perspective on the landscape. The stark white cliffs contrasted beautifully against the deep blue sea, while terraced olive groves climbed into the mountains, occasionally punctuated by lavish villas, reports the Express. The water was so crystal clear that you could see straight down, even as we ventured closer to the open sea. The Greek sun blazed down on us as we sped towards the remarkable Navagio Beach - also known as Shipwreck Beach. I had previously seen pictures of this beach, where the rusted remains of the MV Panagiotis are scattered across the gleaming white sand. But as we navigated the towering white cliffs towards the beach, the sight that greeted us was genuinely breathtaking. Before you even get a glimpse of the wreckage, the first thing that strikes you is the startlingly blue water. It's a vibrant sky blue, unlike any other ocean I've ever seen, and it appears even bluer against the backdrop of the towering cliffs that enclose this tiny bay. As we drew nearer on our boat, the shipwreck came into view - and it was stunning. The MV Panagiotis ran aground here in October 1980. There's a rumour that the ship was smuggling contraband and was being chased by the Navy. When bad weather forced the ship aground, the crew fled from the Navy, leaving the wreckage on the beach where it has remained ever since. The rusted, graffiti-covered body of the ship stands in stark contrast to the beautiful beach it rests on, which looks like it could be straight out of a film. The scene is unimaginably beautiful - but there's a catch. We were itching to dive into the sky-blue water and explore the wreckage up close, but unfortunately, our captain informed us that the beach is closed to the public and swimming is prohibited. This is due to a risk of seismic activity and landslides, as well as efforts to conserve what remains of the wreckage. The beach has been closed before - in 2018, 2023 and 2024 - and there's no indication that it will reopen anytime soon. Fortunately, our boat trip took us to three other spots along the Zakynthos coast where we were more than welcome to jump in and swim, so just viewing this one spot from the boat was absolutely worth it. Despite not being able to get up close and personal with the shipwreck, it was still an unforgettable experience that my mates and I will always remember. If you fancy booking the same trip we did, have a look at Golden Dolphin Tours.
Time Business News
26-04-2025
- Time Business News
7 Most Beautiful Beaches In The World
Walking barefoot on a pristine beach with fluffy sand beneath your feet and turquoise waves that reach to the horizon is one of the most peaceful moments in life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a romantic retreat, or an adventurous dive into crystal-clear waters, the world is home to countless beaches that feel like a dream. Among them, a select few stand out—not just for their natural beauty but for the sense of awe they inspire. Here are the 7 most beautiful beaches in the world, each offering a unique slice of paradise. In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach is an absolute gem on Whitsunday Island in Queensland, Australia. Stretching over seven kilometers, the beach is world-renowned for its pure white silica sand, so fine and soft it feels like walking on clouds. The swirling patterns created by the mingling of white sand and azure waters, especially at Hill Inlet, are a photographer's dream. Whitehaven, which is only reachable by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, provides a peaceful retreat from the daily grind. Its remote location ensures that it remains unspoiled, making it one of the world's most surreal and captivating beaches. Imagine a beach where the sand is so soft it squeaks under your feet and the sea so clear that you can spot fish swimming even in the shallowest water. That's Grace Bay in Providenciales, part of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As a component of Princess Alexandra National Park, Grace Bay maintains its natural attractiveness and is frequently listed as one of the world's top beaches. The calm, reef-protected waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. What sets Grace Bay apart is its perfect blend of luxury resorts and untouched beauty, offering travelers both comfort and nature in one idyllic location. Located on La Digue Island, Anse Source d'Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world—and for good reason. Giant granite boulders frame this picturesque beach, while shallow, crystal-clear waters gently lap against the pinkish-white sand. The surreal landscape makes it feel like you've stepped into a fantasy world. With palm trees swaying in the breeze and warm waters perfect for wading or snorkeling, Anse Source d'Argent is both dramatic and peaceful. Access is typically through L'Union Estate, a historic plantation, adding a cultural twist to your visit. Tucked away on the coast of Zakynthos, one of the Ionian Islands in Greece, lies Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach. Surrounded by tall limestone cliffs that tumble into turquoise water, this gorgeous cove is only reachable by boat. The beach gets its nickname from the rusting remains of the MV Panagiotis, a shipwreck that washed ashore in the 1980s and now lies half-buried in the sand. The contrast of the bright blue water, white cliffs, and the old shipwreck makes for a dramatic and iconic view. Visitors can admire the beach from above at a nearby cliff viewpoint or take a boat ride to feel the sand beneath their feet. Often referred to as Brazil's best-kept secret, Baía do Sancho lies on the remote Fernando de Noronha archipelago. Accessible only via a steep staircase down a cliff or by boat, the effort to reach it is richly rewarded. This beach is known for its rich marine biodiversity—sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful reef fish make it a snorkeler's paradise. Flanked by dramatic cliffs covered in lush vegetation, the golden sand and emerald waters of Baía do Sancho create an unforgettable setting. Despite its growing popularity, strict conservation efforts help preserve its natural beauty and limit visitor numbers, ensuring it remains pristine. Tulum Beach in Mexico offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and laid-back bohemian vibes. Ancient Mayan ruins situated atop a cliff overlook Tulum's beautiful sands and blue waters, which are situated along the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. What makes Tulum special is its blend of history and modern luxury. Boutique hotels, yoga retreats, and eco-resorts line the beach, offering a holistic getaway. Whether you're lounging in a beachfront hammock or exploring nearby cenotes, Tulum's magic lies in its ability to connect the past and present in a truly stunning environment. Last but certainly not least, Matira Beach is often considered the crown jewel of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Unlike many of Bora Bora's beaches that are privately owned by luxury resorts, Matira is one of the few public-access beaches, making its beauty available to everyone. The soft, white sand stretches for over a mile, gradually sloping into shallow, warm waters that glow with shades of blue and green. Surrounded by lush palms and backed by emerald hills, Matira is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The sunsets here are particularly magical, painting the sky in hues of gold, pink, and purple. From the remote islands of the South Pacific to the shores of the Mediterranean, these seven beaches showcase the sheer variety and magnificence of the world's coastal treasures. Each one offers something unique—whether it's the geological wonder of granite boulders in Seychelles, the shipwrecked mystery in Greece, or the sugar-white sands of Australia. So, whether you're planning your next tropical escape or simply dreaming of distant shores, let these stunning beaches inspire your wanderlust. After all, paradise is just a beach away. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
