A British holidaymaker has been hospitalised following a terrifying shark attack near Majorca, sending shockwaves through the popular Spanish resort.
The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, was swimming just 300 metres from Platja de Palma when the predator struck. Emergency services raced to the scene after receiving multiple distress calls from horrified witnesses.
Chaos on Majorcan Beaches
Local authorities immediately cleared the water as lifeguards blasted warning sirens along the coastline. Tourist sunbathers watched in horror as the bloodied victim was carried ashore on a stretcher.
"It happened so fast," one shaken witness told reporters. "One second he was swimming normally, the next there was this huge splash and screaming."
Orca or Shark? Experts Weigh In
Marine biologists are analysing bite marks to determine whether the attacker was actually a shark or one of the orcas that have recently been spotted in Balearic waters. The distinction could have significant implications for beach safety protocols.
"This is exceptionally rare for Mediterranean waters," explained Dr. Carlos Minguell, a local marine expert. "We've seen increased orca activity this season, but shark attacks remain extremely uncommon in this region."
Tourism Impact Feared
The attack comes at the height of Majorca's tourist season, with industry leaders nervously monitoring potential cancellations. Local businesses have emphasised that such incidents remain statistically insignificant compared to daily visitor numbers.
Spanish coastguard units have increased patrols, deploying additional surveillance drones to monitor marine activity. Beachgoers are being advised to:
- Swim only in designated areas
- Avoid dawn and dusk swimming
- Heed all lifeguard warnings
- Stay clear of fishing activity
As investigations continue, the British victim remains under medical supervision with what are described as "significant but non-life-threatening" injuries.
