Greece reports 357 drownings in 2025, sea deaths fall while inland deaths surge 171%

The Greek Naval Rescue Academy said there were 357 fatal drownings in 2025, down from 388 the previous year, a reduction of 31 deaths. While fatalities at sea declined, incidents in pools, lakes and rivers rose sharply, from seven deaths in 2024 to 19 in 2025 – an increase of 171%.

About 80% of the victims were aged over 60. Greeks accounted for 61% of the deaths and foreign visitors 39%; 64% of the fatal incidents occurred at unsupervised beaches. No deaths were recorded involving recreational watercraft such as jet skis.

Lifeguard coverage improved, reaching 97% of beaches – a 4‑percentage‑point rise – but the academy highlighted persistent staffing shortages and called for lifeguards at tourist‑facility pools, especially where depth exceeds 1.5 m and accommodation exceeds 50 rooms.