**Three Authorities to Investigate Cape Greco Boat Tragedy**
The tragic sinking of two boats off Cape Greco, which resulted in the death of businessman Dimi Mavropoulos, has prompted a comprehensive investigation by three separate authorities. The incident occurred last Saturday and has raised significant concerns regarding maritime safety regulations and the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Mavropoulos, a 76-year-old former rally driver and founder of the Cyprus Historic and Classic Motor Museum in Limassol, was aboard his boat, the Perla Bianca, when it sank. He was accompanied by his 30-year-old daughter and his 57-year-old partner, both of whom survived the incident. Reports indicate that Mavropoulos became trapped in the wreckage while attempting to save his boat.
The investigations are being conducted by the police, the deputy shipping ministry, and the marine accident and incident investigation committee. The police and deputy shipping ministry are focusing on Mavropoulos' death and the sinking of the Perla Bianca, while the marine committee is separately examining the sinking of the passenger vessel Petsas I, which was also involved in the incident.
A meeting held on Monday clarified the division of responsibilities among the authorities involved. The deputy ministry has committed to working closely with the other agencies to remove pollutants, debris, and the wrecks from the sea as soon as possible. An open-ended NAVTEX warning, issued by the joint rescue coordination centre (JRCC), will remain active until the area is cleared, alerting vessels to the presence of wreckage.
As of Monday afternoon, the police investigation into Mavropoulos' death was reported to be at an advanced stage. Statements have been taken from all four survivors, including Mavropoulos’ daughter, while his partner, who was discharged from the hospital, is expected to provide a statement soon.
The investigation has also prompted discussions about the adequacy of current maritime regulations in Cyprus, particularly regarding yacht departures during severe weather conditions. Dr. Antonis Stylianou, a maritime law expert, highlighted that Cyprus lacks a comprehensive system akin to Greece's, which allows for sailing restrictions based on weather factors such as wind strength and wave height. He noted that existing legislation primarily addresses commercial shipping rather than sailing yachts, creating a significant regulatory gap.
Stylianou emphasized the need for a more robust legal framework, suggesting the development of a four-level warning system for vessels preparing to set sail. He also pointed out that while authorities have a role in regulating maritime safety, individual captains must also take responsibility for their decisions at sea. "It is not possible to have a police officer hovering above every captain," he remarked.
The meteorological office has stated that it does not have the authority to prevent boats from departing, although it had issued an orange weather warning on the day of the incident. According to representative Andreas Chrysanthou, the warning accurately forecasted dangerous conditions, including waves reaching nearly 2.5 meters in eastern areas. The sea bulletin was disseminated every six hours to relevant authorities, port authorities, private companies, and boat owners.
The inquiry into the sinking of Petsas I will focus on maritime safety issues related to the vessel. This investigation is not criminal in nature and aims to produce a report outlining findings and safety recommendations, if necessary.
Dimi Mavropoulos is remembered as a prominent figure in the rally driving community and for his contributions to the automotive heritage of Cyprus. His funeral is scheduled for Thursday at 11 a.m. at St. Kosmas’ Church in Aetolian, Limassol.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the factors that led to this tragic event and ensuring that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.