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Coordinates: 39.111019, 23.659103

Shipwreck "Christophoros"

In 1983, a cargo ship sank, without casualties, in the waters of Skopelos. A few decades later, the unfortunate event turned into an opportunity for an exciting underwater experience. "Christophoros," the most well-preserved shipwreck in the wider area, is today a historic monument, ideal for underwater visits, both for experienced and trainee divers.

The History of "Christophoros"

In January 1950, a ship 85 meters long and about 13 meters wide was built at the Grangemouth Shipyard in Scotland, named "Thomas Hardie," on behalf of the North Thames Gas Board.

Over time, the newly-built ship would change names and owners several times. In 1968, it was sold to Stephenson Clarke Sg. Ltd. and renamed "Birling." In 1975, it was bought by Puma Sg. Co. Ltd., took the name "Epic," and was registered at the port of Limassol, Cyprus. In 1976, it passed into the hands of Christincoast Cia Naviera S.A., its name changed for the last time to "Christophoros," and it was registered at the port of Piraeus.

"Christophoros" began its final voyage with a crew of fifteen on the morning of October 2, 1983, departing from the port of Volos, opposite the Northern Sporades. It was loaded with 2,600 tons of cement, heading to the port of Piraeus and from there to Algeria. The weather was good at the beginning, but in the afternoon, a storm broke out, and north winds began to blow. By afternoon, a list of 7 degrees to the right was observed, which kept increasing. The ship changed course and sought a safe anchorage at Panormos in Skopelos. When it finally arrived, around 16:00, the waves had broken one of the portholes on the bridge, causing flooding and the rightward list to increase to 17 degrees.

Things continued to worsen. At 22:00, the captain ordered the crew to abandon the ship, while he, the first mate, and the boatswain stayed behind and, along with the fishing boat "Giannakis," tried to pump out the water and run the ship aground. The next day, it became clear that all efforts were in vain, so the captain and the other two crew members also left. "Christophoros" sank at 05:30 on October 3, 1983. It remains there to this day, at a depth of 43 meters, resting on the seabed, welcoming divers who want to visit and learn its history.

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