aventuro Back to map A
Places of interest

Shipwreck Epanomi

4.6 · 2,250 reviews
A quiet and haunting coastal curiosity
Shipwreck Epanomi, Epanomi 575 00, Greece
Interesting facts
1

The wreck is the remains of a German-built cargo ship known locally as the 'Nauagio'.

2

The vessel grounded in the 1970s, though specific dates regarding its final journey remain poorly documented in local maritime records.

3

The hull is gradually splitting into sections due to prolonged exposure to sea salt and wave action.

4

The water depth around the wreck is shallow enough for average-height adults to stand in several spots during low tide.

5

The wreck is often mistaken for a WWII-era vessel, but historical accounts suggest it was in operation much later in the 20th century.

6

The site is located near the Epanomi Cape, a point historically significant for local coastal navigation.

7

There are no salvage operations currently planned, as the wreck has been deemed a non-hazardous coastal feature.

Overview

The Epanomi Shipwreck is the exposed, rusting hull of a cargo vessel that ran aground near the Potamos beach in Epanomi, Greece. The ship, identified as the 'Epanomi' or 'Nauagio,' intentionally or accidentally grounded decades ago, leaving a significant portion of its structure visible above the waterline. The wreckage is situated in the Thermaic Gulf, slowly deteriorating due to salt water corrosion and weather exposure. It serves as a stark visual landmark against the shallow, sandy seabed and turquoise waters of the region. The surrounding area is part of a larger coastal stretch characterized by dunes and relatively calm swimming waters. It remains an unmanaged site without official maintenance or structural reinforcement. Visitors can observe the hull from the beach or swim out to it during calm sea conditions. It is a popular subject for photography due to the contrast between the industrial decay of the metal and the natural marine environment.

Photo spot

From the shoreline, capturing the wreck silhouetted against the sunset over the Thermaic Gulf.

Insider tips

Bring water shoes to protect feet from sharp, submerged metal fragments and sea urchins often found near the wreck.

Visit during low tide to see more of the hull structure exposed above the water.

Ensure the sea is calm before attempting to swim near the wreck, as rusted edges can be hazardous in rougher water.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter the dark, enclosed interior sections of the ship due to unstable flooring and hazardous debris.

Etiquette

Avoid climbing or jumping off the rusted hull to prevent injury from sharp metal and tetanus risk.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during the shoulder season (May-June or September) for soft light and fewer crowds.
Address
Shipwreck Epanomi, Epanomi 575 00, Greece
40.376, 22.897
Get directions
Details
Site ConditionAbandoned maritime wreckage
TerrainSandy seabed with shallow waters

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during the shoulder season (May-June or September) for soft light and fewer crowds..

From the shoreline, capturing the wreck silhouetted against the sunset over the Thermaic Gulf.

Close by you'll find Platia Metaksa Epanomis, Waterland, Holy Monastery of Saint John the Theologian at Souroti.