As a vote of confidence in Greece's sovereign rights in the maritime zones south of Crete, the government welcomed the interest of the American energy giant Chevron in granting hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation rights.

A quick-thinking waiter rescued a swimmer who was struggling in a dangerous rip current at Karteros Beach, an act captured on video that has drawn widespread praise.

Increased migratory flows have been recorded in Crete recently, with continuous arrivals and rescues in marine and coastal areas, but also serious shortages in accommodation facilities.