Shark Alert Issued in Ibiza After Predator Spotted Circling Marina
A shark alert has been activated in the popular holiday destination of Ibiza, Spain, after a substantial predator was filmed swimming in a marina frequented by tourists. The incident occurred at Marina Botafoc, where a boat worker observed the animal circling the harbour earlier this week.
Bosun Spots Injured Shark in Early Morning Sighting
Bosun Ediz Mehmet, aged 46 from Cala de Bou, arrived at the marina around 8am on Monday, February 9, when he noticed the shark moving through the water. He described the creature as a blue shark approximately two to three metres in length, swimming in circular patterns within the harbour.
"I work on a boat moored in Marina Botafoc," Mehmet explained. "As I arrived this morning, there was what looks like a blue shark about two to three metres long swimming around in circles in the harbour."
Photographs and videos captured by witnesses show the shark swimming back and forth between the pontoons. Observers noted a small wound on the upper part of its dorsal fin, which some speculate may have been a bite mark, indicating the animal could be injured.
Unusual Behaviour Linked to Weather and Injury
The shark's behaviour appeared abnormal, with it circling repeatedly in the confined marina space. Mehmet and other onlookers believe the predator might be disoriented or confused, possibly due to adverse weather conditions affecting the area.
"It must be confused by the bad weather," remarked one individual who witnessed the event. Blue sharks typically measure between 1.7 and 2.2 metres as adults, though some can grow up to four metres long, making this sighting particularly notable for its size.
Recent Shark Encounters Heighten Safety Concerns
This incident follows another shark sighting along the Spanish coastline, where a two-metre shark was seen prowling near La Reya Beach in Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia. That encounter prompted beach evacuations as lifeguards warned swimmers to maintain a safe distance.
In the Ibiza case, the boat crew managed to guide the shark away from shallow waters where it risked beaching itself. The close encounter has sparked discussions on social media, with a TikTok video of the shark garnering nearly one million views and thousands of comments.
"Between jellyfish and sharks, I've lost all desire to go to the beach," one person commented online. Another added, "It's a blue shark and does not normally attack humans," highlighting the species' generally non-aggressive nature towards people.
Witness Accounts and Public Reaction
Additional eyewitnesses shared their perspectives on the unusual marine visitor. "I was swimming there in the bay, I turned around and that blue shark appeared next to me," said Miguel, a local resident. Alred, another observer, pointed out, "It was probably in some kind of trouble, that's why it was swimming around."
The shark alert serves as a reminder of the unpredictable presence of marine wildlife in coastal areas, especially during periods of environmental stress. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure public safety while assessing the shark's condition and behaviour.
