Home Tourism The history of Greek ship on Kish Island

The history of Greek ship on Kish Island

by Alireza Bahrekhazan
9 minutes read
greek kish

The stunning turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf, encircling the lively resort island of Kish, have kept many secrets over the years. Yet, one particularly catches the eye amid the modern luxury and busy markets: the eerie outline of a Greek ship, eternally stranded and corroding just offshore. This isn’t merely a shipwreck; it’s like a time capsule, quietly showcasing a history that’s intriguing and, at times, wrapped in enigma. Join us in this article from Eligasht, to get to know more about the Greek Ship.

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Introduction

This big ship was constructed in 1322 SH (which corresponds to 1943-1944 in the Gregorian calendar) by the William Hamilton company in Glasgow, Scotland, and it was launched into the water. When it was built, the ship weighed 7061 tons and measured 136 meters long. Nowadays, it weighs less due to significant corrosion. Over the years, the ship changed ownership several times between English and Iranian owners, with its last owner being a Greek individual.

The ship went by several names throughout its life: “Empire Trumpet,” “Naturalist,” “Koroush Parsi,” “Hamedan,” and finally “Koula F” when it ran aground. The reasons behind its grounding are still unclear, and the high insurance costs with Lloyd’s of England have raised some eyebrows.

Ultimately, in 1345 SH (1966-1967 Gregorian), the ship ran aground on Kish Island. Despite 80 days of relentless attempts to free it, the efforts were unsuccessful due to its heavy weight. Since it was no longer financially feasible to keep it, the passengers and crew had to abandon ship, and all the oil cargo was completely unloaded.

The ship was first built in 1943 AD (1325 SH) by the William Hamilton and Co. shipyard and was sold to the British Ministry of War Transport, which named it the Empire Trumpet. Later, it was taken over by a company called Larringa Steamship, and two years after that, it was handed over to T & J Harrison. During this period (from 1943 to 1946 AD), the ship was leased to the South African government. In 1946 AD, the Charente Steamship Company bought it and renamed it Naturalist. They decided to let T & J Harrison manage it, as they were the previous owners. In 1959 AD, an Iranian company took over the ship. Lloyd and Co. Khorramshahr changed its name to Koroush Parsi and handed management over to B. Ashworth & Co. In 1965, the Iranian Shipping Lines took ownership of the ship in Khorramshahr and renamed it Hamedan. The last owners were two Greeks, P.J. Frangoulis and A.I. Cliafas, who bought it in 1966 and changed its name to Koula F. That same year, the ship ran aground, and since it was owned by the Greeks, it became known as the Greek ship.

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Inside of the Greek ship on Kish Island

The Greek ship on Kish Island has turned into a mix of beauty and decay over the years. Its deterioration, caused by the humid climate and tough environmental conditions, has made it unsafe for visitors. There was a time when people could explore the inside of the ship, but that only sped up its decline.

The lower section of the ship, which constantly faces the waves and saltwater, is badly damaged and could sink at any moment. Plus, it’s become a home for various marine creatures, showing its impact on the local ecosystem.

As time goes on, the ship’s stability continues to wane, with parts crumbling away. The stern has already given way, and the hull is slowly breaking apart and falling into the sea. Sadly, because of the high costs involved in maintenance and restoration, this once-stunning ship might not be a tourist spot on the island for much longer.

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Why the Greek ship ran aground

There are plenty of tales and legends about the Greek ship. One popular story is about the captain who fell for an Iranian girl, but her family wasn’t on board with the romance. He planned to take her to Greece, but then the ship ran aground, and their wedding dreams went up in smoke.

Another tale suggests that the ship’s owner was in deep financial trouble. So, along with the captain and crew, they supposedly faked the whole incident to cash in on insurance. Plus, some locals claim the captain had been drinking, which might have contributed to the mishap.

But there’s a more straightforward explanation that a lot of people agree on. The weather was super foggy, and with no lighthouses around, the ship ended up drifting toward the island and got stuck.

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Leisure activities and fun spots near the Greek Ship in Kish

Right now, you can’t explore the inside of the ship. While you might have come across some cool diving photos around the Greek Ship, diving clubs don’t actually offer those experiences anymore because of the risks involved with diving beneath the ship. Those images you’ve seen are probably from professional divers or from a time when the ship was in better shape.

Greek Ship Beach Park

With amenities such as rest areas, a buffet, and bicycle access, this park is a great place to spend time by the sea and near the ship.

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Camel and Horse Riding

There are some cool activities for visitors in the area. Camel and horseback riding along the beach is a popular choice. Plus, there are large, unique sculptures scattered along the beach, adding to the lovely vibe and making for great photo ops.

Photography

This ship is known as one of the most popular subjects for photography on the island. With artistic structures like a clock shaped like a helm, photographers.

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Ocean Water Park

Located a relatively short distance from the Greek Ship, this water park offers a variety of aquatic recreations to tourists, including a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and surfing. It’s even usable in cold seasons thanks to a heating system.

Sunset Views

One of the ship’s biggest draws is how stunning it looks at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky lights up with reds and oranges, turning the ship into a picturesque scene. Many people flock to see this magical sunset and snap some photos. On special occasions, the ship is even adorned with colorful lights, enhancing its charm.

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Baghu Village and Harireh City

These historical sites, located near the ship, offer opportunities to explore the island’s local history and culture. From the mud houses of Baghu Village to the ruins of the ancient city of Harireh, each tells a unique story to tourists.

 

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FAQ

What is the “Greek Ship” on Kish Island?

The “Greek Ship” is the popular name for a large cargo ship that ran aground and was abandoned on the southwestern coast of Kish Island, Iran. It’s become a well-known tourist attraction and landmark due to its dramatic location and rusting state.

Why is it called the Greek Ship if it’s in Iran?

While the ship’s current popular name suggests Greek origin, it’s more accurately known as the “Koula F.”. Although it was owned by a Greek shipping company at one point, the ship itself was not built in Greece. The “Greek Ship” moniker has simply stuck due to popular usage.

When did the ship run aground on Kish Island?

The ship ran aground on Kish Island in the 1960s, specifically in 1966.

Why did the ship run aground?

The exact reason is disputed. Some accounts suggest it was due to a navigational error, while others speculate it might have been intentional for insurance purposes or due to engine failures. The true cause remains uncertain.

Is the ship still in use?

Absolutely not. The ship was abandoned after it ran aground and has remained in its current state ever since. It’s heavily rusted and has become part of the landscape.

Can you go inside the Greek Ship?

No, visitors are not allowed inside the ship. It’s structurally unstable and considered dangerous to enter. It’s best viewed from the shore.

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