HERAKLION, Crete — July 27, 2025, 9:19 PM | A waiter at a beach bar in Karteros, just outside Heraklion, Crete, is being hailed as a hero after diving into the sea to rescue a swimmer caught in strong currents.
The dramatic incident, captured on video, highlights the quick thinking and bravery of the unnamed waiter.
According to witnesses, the swimmer was struggling against powerful waves, unable to return to shore. The waiter, working at a nearby beach bar, sprang into action, donning flippers and grabbing a lifebuoy before plunging into the water. Within minutes, he reached the distressed swimmer and safely brought him to shore.
The northern beaches of Crete are known for their hazardous currents, which have proven deadly in the past. The video, shared widely on social media, shows the intensity of the waves that day. “These are the heroes we want!” wrote a user who posted the footage to the Facebook group “Heraklion Quasimodo City,” sparking praise for the waiter’s selfless act.
The incident has raised concerns about the absence of a professional lifeguard at Karteros Beach, prompting questions about safety measures at popular coastal spots.
For more news from Greece and beyond, visit Greekcity times.gr
Stay updated with the latest news from Greece and around the world on greekcitytimes.com.
Contact our newsroom to share your updates, stories, photos, or videos. Follow GCT on Google News and Apple News.
