A luxury yacht operating off the coast of Greece’s Skopelos has been linked to an alleged illegal operation involving the harvesting and smuggling of protected corals from the seabed, with authorities confiscating coral specimens estimated to be worth around €800,000 (approx. $930,000).
According to Greek media reports, the investigation was carried out by the Special Operations Directorate (DEOS) of the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), which reportedly uncovered what officials described as an organized network involved in the illegal trade of valuable Mediterranean “red coral.”
According to the report, the yacht had been rented by Italian nationals and was allegedly used as a floating base for underwater extraction operations in the waters around the Northern Sporades. Investigators said the vessel contained specialized diving equipment, cutting tools, storage areas, and refrigeration facilities used to preserve the harvested coral.
Divers allegedly targeted areas with protected marine ecosystems with coral in Greece
The divers allegedly targeted areas with protected marine ecosystems, including zones connected to the European Natura 2000 network, where coral habitats are strictly protected. The collected material was believed to have been destined for processing facilities in southern Italy, where red coral has traditionally been used in the production of jewelry and luxury decorative items.
The confiscated coral, described as “red gold” because of its high value, was estimated by authorities to have a market value approaching €800,000. The investigation continues, with Greek authorities cooperating with Italian counterparts to identify possible buyers, intermediaries, and other members of the alleged trafficking network.
Illegal coral harvesting is considered a serious threat to Mediterranean marine ecosystems. Beyond damaging fragile underwater habitats, the trade forms part of a wider illegal wildlife market involving protected marine species, including corals, exotic fish, and other vulnerable organisms.
Related: World’s Largest Coral Reef Discovered in the Pacific Ocean
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
