Nusa Penida drowning – Hey Bali family, with heavy hearts we report another ocean tragedy that serves as a sobering reminder of nature’s power. Ukrainian visitor Yaroslav Petryshyn, 67, lost his life after being swept away by powerful waves at Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida on Saturday, August 3, 2025.
Red Alert: Nusa Penida’s Deadly Currents
Authorities are sounding alarms after this second drowning incident in 48 hours at Nusa Penida’s iconic but treacherous beaches:
Danger Zones:
📍 Diamond Beach
📍 Kelingking Beach
📍 Broken Beach
Critical Warning from Nusa Penida Police:
“We urge all tourists – international and local – to check weather reports, heed warning signs, and NEVER swim when red flags are up. These are not normal waves – they’re killers in paradise.” — AKP I Ketut Kesuma Jaya, Nusa Penida Police Chief
How the Tragedy Unfolded (Timeline)
1:15 PM – Petryshyn and companion caught in rip current at Diamond Beach
1:21 PM – SAR team alerted, rigid inflatable boat dispatched
2:45 PM – Petryshyn’s body recovered by locals after being battered against rocks
4:05 PM – Evacuated to Nusa Medica Clinic (pronounced dead on arrival)
Heartbreaking Eyewitness Account:
“We threw ropes but the waves were monsters. One man made it back… the other just disappeared into the white water.”
— Local fisherman at Pelilit Beach
Why This Keeps Happening
1. Deceptive Beauty – Instagram-perfect coves hide deadly undertows
2. No Lifeguards – Most Nusa Penida beaches lack professional rescue teams
3. Tourist Overconfidence – “I’m a strong swimmer” mentality vs. ocean reality
SAR Team’s Stark Message:
“When we say ‘don’t swim,’ we’re not being overcautious – we’re counting bodies.”
— I Nyoman Sidakarya, Head of Denpasar Search & Rescue
How to Stay Safe in Nusa Penida
- Check the Flags – Red means NO swimming
- Sunset Cutoff – Never enter water after 3PM when winds pick up
- Local Knowledge – Ask staff about current conditions
- Buddy System – Never swim alone
- Alternative Adventures – Try cliff-top photography instead
Bigger Picture: Bali’s Ocean Safety Crisis – Nusa Penida drowning
This tragedy follows 14 tourist drownings in Nusa Penida since 2023. While authorities plan to install more warning signs, the ultimate responsibility lies with:
- Tour operators to educate clients
- Social media influencers to stop promoting risky selfies
- Every visitor to respect the ocean’s power
Final Thought Nusa Penida drowning :
“No Instagram shot is worth your life. Let’s keep Bali’s beauty from becoming tragedy’s backdrop.” – Giostanovlatto