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Dutch tourist drowns rescuing friend in Crete's Malia, children watch
On the afternoon of 5 August 2026, two Dutch women rented a motor‑powered inflatable boat (up to 30 hp, no licence required) at the Klotzani beach area of Chersonisos, Crete. They were accompanied by three minor children – two under five and a teenager about 15 years old.
One woman entered the water after feeling unwell while swimming. The second woman jumped in to help her, but became exhausted, inhaled water and lost consciousness. The children on the boat shouted for help; nearby jet‑ski operators and the Greek Coast Guard (EKAB) responded, but the 40‑year‑old tourist could not be revived and was pronounced dead after being taken to the shore.
The incident is under investigation by the local maritime authority, with an autopsy planned to determine whether drowning or a medical condition caused the death. The tragedy, witnessed by the three children, has raised concerns about safety regulations for small rental boats in popular tourist spots.
Entities
30‑horsepower inflatable boat · 40‑year‑old Dutch tourist · 42‑year‑old Dutch tourist · Chersonisos, Crete · Crete, Greece · Dutch friend (approx. 43‑year‑old) · Dutch tourist · Dutch tourist (40‑year‑old woman) · EKAB · Greek Coast Guard (EKAB) · Greek authorities (EKAB) · Greek maritime authorities