Protecting sea turtles in Crete starts with responsible behaviour on the beach. But injured turtles need help too. Through its October 2026 campaign, ARCHELON is raising funds for patients at its Sea Turtle Rescue Centre near Athens. Here is how its work connects to Crete—and how you can support it, wherever you live.
At a glance
- The organisation: ARCHELON is a Greek nonprofit organisation protecting sea turtles and their habitats.
- Its work in Crete: ARCHELON runs conservation projects on nesting beaches in Chania, Rethymno and Messara Bay.
- The current campaign: Its October 2026 fundraising goal is €5,000 to support turtle care through the end of the year.
- The location: The Rescue Centre is in Glyfada, near Athens. This campaign is not limited to turtles from Crete.
- How to help: Donate directly to ARCHELON, share the campaign or follow the protection guidelines when visiting nesting beaches.
Information checked on 9 October 2026. Campaign figures refer to ARCHELON’s announcement dated 1 October 2026.
Why sea turtles in Crete need protection
Crete’s beaches are more than places to swim and relax. They are also nesting habitats for loggerhead sea turtles, known scientifically as Caretta caretta. ARCHELON’s conservation projects on the island cover Chania, Rethymno and Messara Bay.
The organisation combines scientific research, volunteering and public education. Since 1983, it has monitored loggerhead nesting activity and protected nests on important beaches across Greece. Rescuing injured turtles is another part of its work.
Threats occur both on land and at sea. ARCHELON identifies fishing gear, plastic pollution and pressure from tourism on nesting habitats among the challenges turtles face. Protecting beaches and caring for injured animals are therefore complementary tasks.
At Kretakompass, we believe understanding Crete includes understanding its natural habitats. Whether you visit the island, own a home here or simply care about its wildlife, you can contribute to their protection.
ARCHELON’s October 2026 appeal: Care beyond the summer
According to ARCHELON, 13 turtles needing treatment arrived at the Rescue Centre in August 2026 alone. At one point during the summer, all 42 rehabilitation tanks were occupied.
The October campaign aims to raise €5,000 to support patient care through the end of 2026. Funds will contribute to veterinary care, medication, specialised nutrition, heating and the operation of the facilities. Injured and sick turtles continue to arrive during winter, and rehabilitation can take months or even years.
An important distinction: The Rescue Centre is in Glyfada, in the Attica region near Athens. ARCHELON operates a nationwide rescue network. This appeal supports care at the centre, rather than a programme exclusively for turtles from Crete.
How to donate directly to ARCHELON
You can support the organisation through its official donation page, where you select a cause and an amount. Donations are handled directly through ARCHELON. Kretakompass does not collect or process donations.
You can also read the original October campaign announcement or share this article with people who care about sea turtles and marine conservation.
You do not need to be in Greece to raise awareness or support the campaign.
Protecting sea turtles in Crete: What to do at nesting beaches
Responsible behaviour matters alongside financial support. ARCHELON recommends the following precautions at nesting beaches:
- Leave protective markers in place. Do not move nest signs, protective cages or marked paths for hatchlings.
- Leave nests undisturbed. Do not dig up eggs or touch newly hatched turtles. Hatchlings should make their own way to the sea.
- Reduce light and obstacles. Remove beach furniture after use. Switch off or cover bright lights visible from the nesting beach.
- Follow local guidance. Visit ARCHELON’s information stations to learn the rules for the particular beach you are using.
Accommodation hosts and property owners near nesting beaches can help too. A short explanation in a guest guide can make the protection measures easier to understand. If your accommodation is beside a nesting beach, check whether outdoor lighting illuminates the sand.
Small, practical changes can make responsible behaviour part of an ordinary holiday.
Found an injured sea turtle in Crete?
If you find an injured or dead sea turtle, contact ARCHELON’s Rescue Network. You can also ask for guidance if you discover a nest or hatchlings.
ARCHELON’s 24-hour telephone number: +30 6941 511 511
Explain where the animal or nest is located and follow the team’s instructions. Consult ARCHELON’s official guidance for turtle sightings and strandings for further information.
Frequently asked questions about sea turtles in Crete and ARCHELON
Where does ARCHELON protect sea turtles in Crete?
ARCHELON operates conservation projects in Chania, Rethymno and Messara Bay. Its work includes protecting nesting habitats and informing people about sea turtles and their conservation.
Is the ARCHELON Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Crete?
No. The Rescue Centre is in Glyfada, near Athens. ARCHELON’s projects on Crete’s nesting beaches and its nationwide rescue network are different parts of the same organisation.
What is the goal of the October 2026 campaign?
ARCHELON aims to raise €5,000 in October to support turtle patient care through the end of 2026. This is the announced fundraising target, not a statement of how much has already been raised.
How can I support ARCHELON from outside Greece?
Visit the official donation page to see the available options, or share the campaign with others. If you travel to Crete, follow the protection guidelines at nesting beaches.
Should I carry a baby sea turtle into the sea?
ARCHELON advises against touching hatchlings. They should make their own way to the water. If you believe intervention is necessary, contact ARCHELON and follow its guidance.
Who should I call if I find an injured turtle?
Call ARCHELON’s Rescue Network on +30 6941 511 511, available around the clock. Explain the location and ask for instructions on what to do next.
Sources and further information
All external factual sources below are published by ARCHELON. Accessed on 9 October 2026.
- October for sea turtles: Help us care for our sea turtle patients this winter, published on 1 October 2026.
- About ARCHELON: Organisation, activities and history.
- Conservation project areas and the National Rescue Network.
- Guidelines for visitors to nesting beaches.
- What to do if you find a turtle, nest or hatchlings.
- Official donation page.
Campaign photographs: ©ARCHELON. Used with permission.
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