**Limassol Remembers Businessman Who Drowned in Storm**
Limassol is in mourning following the tragic death of local businessman Dimis Mavropoulos, who drowned during a severe storm on Saturday while aboard his boat, Perla Bianca. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection from the community, particularly from the Limassol Chamber of Commerce, where Mavropoulos was a respected member.
Andreas Tsouloftas, the president of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce (Evel), expressed profound sadness over Mavropoulos's untimely passing. He recounted a recent visit to Mavropoulos's boat, where he and a friend had warned him about the deteriorating weather conditions. “We went in the dinghy next to Dimis’ boat and told him that everyone was planning to leave, as the weather was going to get worse, but he told us that he would stay for another week,” Tsouloftas recalled.
Mavropoulos was known for his extensive experience with boating, which led him to believe he could manage the conditions. Tsouloftas noted, “Dimis was always a risk-taker, believing that he would make it, but the sea is unforgiving and demands respect.” Unfortunately, the storm brought unexpected wind intensity and waves that proved fatal.
The storm also resulted in three boats sinking off Cape Greco, prompting a rescue operation by the Joint Rescue and Coordination Centre (JRCC). During this operation, two individuals were successfully rescued from the water, but Mavropoulos was not among them.
In his comments, Tsouloftas highlighted a sense of negligence on the part of the port and maritime authorities. He suggested that had they acted more swiftly, Mavropoulos's death might have been prevented. “It was a truly sad incident,” he said, emphasizing the need for better safety measures and timely responses in such emergencies.
Mavropoulos was not only a businessman but also a key figure in the local community. He served on the Board of Directors of Evel and was actively involved in the Limassol regional tourism board (Etap). Tsouloftas remarked on Mavropoulos's dedication to promoting the city and its development, noting that his absence would be “immense” at the upcoming Evel session.
The Cyprus Museum of Historic and Classical Cars, which Mavropoulos founded, also expressed its sorrow over his loss. The museum described him as a man with a deep passion for cars and a commitment to service and charity within the community. “His love for Limassol, his city, was special and deep,” they stated, announcing that the museum would remain closed until after the funeral service, which will be scheduled at a later date.
As the community comes to terms with this tragic event, discussions are underway within the Limassol Chamber of Commerce regarding ways to honor Mavropoulos's memory and contributions to the city. His legacy as a businessman, community leader, and passionate advocate for Limassol will be remembered by many.